Claiming to be the largest mosque in Europe, the Baitul Futuh in Morden, London has a large presence and active involvement in the local community. Providing services similar to that of both the Great Mosque of Paris and the Ahmadiyya Mosque in Berlin, it serves as a place of worship for the local Muslim population and a centre of information and outreach to the wider community.
Facilities
Situated on a 5.2 acre site the mosque was built in 2003 after the previous existing Mosque in London became simply too small to serve the needs of the growing Muslim population. With 2 minarets and a range of facilities it is an example of a recently built, modern mosque, funded by the Ahmadiyya community, with ‘sophisticated' facilities, whilst still delivering traditional Islamic teachings.
Function
With a capacity of 10,000, one of the mosques main aims is to promote the traditional brand of Ahmadiyya Islam – one that centres on a peaceful coexistence with its neighbours both in London and throughout the world. Participating regularly in events such as Islam Awareness week, International Peace Initiative, and with regular open days, the mosque is best placed to answer any questions about a religion that is still at times misunderstood or misinterpreted. In a climate where mistrust is common and where numerous other mosques and Islamic centres have been called into disrepute due to their violent or extremist ideals, the mosque can serve to alleviate tensions within the local community and widen the horizons of those who visit.
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