Mosque Holds Annual Open House

TYLER — Another large crowd was on hand as Tyler’s East Texas Islamic Society opened the doors of its mosque to the community for an annual open house — part of the holy month of Ramadan. Visitors learned about Islam as they listened to a panel of speakers and got to ask questions, along with enjoying food and fellowship. Society spokesman Anwar Khalifa told KTBB, “We want to open up. We want the community comfortable with their Muslim neighbors…We want to be a part of the community, not apart from the community.” As for the response, Khalifa said, “It’s amazing — I think this is the biggest turnout we’ve had,” adding that the society members were “just so grateful for everybody that’s here.