COURAGEOUS STEWARDSHIP:
Glad Tidings of Paradise for the Strangers
Message from the Organizers
In the Name of Allah, Most Beneficent, Most Merciful
All praise is due to Allah. May His peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and
upon his family, and his companions and all those who follow his way, Ameen.
Assalamu ‘Alaikum.
On behalf of the Retreat organizers, we welcome you to the ninth annual Risala Foundation Retreat.
It is truly an honor to be a part of this unique event with all of you. Our goal is to ensure an everlasting
effect in the lives of all attending through the blessings of our beloved teachers who have taken their
time out to be with us.
Please come spiritually and mentally prepared to reap the benefits from our teachers and each other
with utmost respect and humility.
You will find everything you need in preparation for the upcoming retreat in this orientation package. If
you have any further questions or inquiries, please email us at info@risala.org and we will do everything
we can to ensure all your needs are taken care of, insha’Allah.
May Allah (SWT) give us success in this world and the hereafter and enlighten us with the true
understanding of this beautiful Faith, Amen.
Best regards,
Rehan Farooq | rhfarooq@gmail.com
Zeyn Patel | zeyn@argustalent.com
Hina Syed | hinasyed786@yahoo.com
Farooq Razvi | farooqf@gmail.com
All praise is due to Allah. May His peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and
upon his family, and his companions and all those who follow his way, Ameen.
Assalamu ‘Alaikum.
On behalf of the Retreat organizers, we welcome you to the ninth annual Risala Foundation Retreat.
It is truly an honor to be a part of this unique event with all of you. Our goal is to ensure an everlasting
effect in the lives of all attending through the blessings of our beloved teachers who have taken their
time out to be with us.
Please come spiritually and mentally prepared to reap the benefits from our teachers and each other
with utmost respect and humility.
You will find everything you need in preparation for the upcoming retreat in this orientation package. If
you have any further questions or inquiries, please email us at info@risala.org and we will do everything
we can to ensure all your needs are taken care of, insha’Allah.
May Allah (SWT) give us success in this world and the hereafter and enlighten us with the true
understanding of this beautiful Faith, Amen.
Best regards,
Rehan Farooq | rhfarooq@gmail.com
Zeyn Patel | zeyn@argustalent.com
Hina Syed | hinasyed786@yahoo.com
Farooq Razvi | farooqf@gmail.com
Program Essentials
Accommodations and Meals
Nestled among the tall pines on 530 acres along the shores of Lake Livingston, YMCA Camp Cullen offers
the experience of a lifetime where campers take part in a wide range of activities. In addition to the
many fun activities available, the campers also gather as a cabin group each day where they play, learn
and bond together while participating in fun activities like campfires, etc.
The wood cabins we will be residing in feature bathrooms and showers, and a twin sized mattress for
each person. Students are required to bring their own pillows and blanket, a sleeping bag or comforter.
Meals are provided during breakfast, lunch, and dinner and will be Zabihah Halal. If you have any
specific dietary needs, please alert us immediately.
Tea and beverages are also provided in the dining hall.
Additional Costs
Your registration fee covers your attendance to the camp, activities and all meals
Nestled among the tall pines on 530 acres along the shores of Lake Livingston, YMCA Camp Cullen offers
the experience of a lifetime where campers take part in a wide range of activities. In addition to the
many fun activities available, the campers also gather as a cabin group each day where they play, learn
and bond together while participating in fun activities like campfires, etc.
The wood cabins we will be residing in feature bathrooms and showers, and a twin sized mattress for
each person. Students are required to bring their own pillows and blanket, a sleeping bag or comforter.
Meals are provided during breakfast, lunch, and dinner and will be Zabihah Halal. If you have any
specific dietary needs, please alert us immediately.
Tea and beverages are also provided in the dining hall.
Additional Costs
Your registration fee covers your attendance to the camp, activities and all meals
Travel Information
|
YMCA Camp Cullen is located at 460 Cullen Loop, Trinity, TX. You will be responsible for your own
transportation to Camp Cullen. Check-in for the camp will begin at 7pm on Friday night. Depending on where you are traveling from in Houston, you should expect it to take around 1.5 hours to 2 hours. Due to the surrounding landscape and communication obstacles, we recommend you drive during daylight hours and plan to get there as early as possible. General Directions (use your own favorite map tool to confirm): FROM HIGHWAY 59: Take Hwy 59 to Livingston. Exit at Livingston/Huntsville. At the traffic light make a left onto Hwy 190 west. Take 190 west to Onalaska, approximately 13 miles. Go to third traffic light and make a right onto FM 356. Camp Cullen is 15 miles on the right. Pass under the entrance and follow signs to office. FROM I-45: Take I-45 north to exit 113 (Huntsville/Crockett). This exit will turn into Hwy 19 north. Follow Hwy 19 for approximately 22 miles to Trinity. Go to the second traffic light and make a right onto Hwy 94 east. Go over the railroad tracks and turn right at the flashing yellow caution light onto FM 356. Camp Cullen is 5 miles on the left. Pass under the entrance and follow signs to office |
The Program
The following section contains pertinent information about the program and expectations during the retreat. You will also receive a separate attachment with a detailed schedule for the weekend.
Materials
Please bring a notebook and a pen to class.
Attendance
Students should attend class on time and be seated five minutes prior to the session starting. Attendance to all assigned sessions is mandatory.
Program Conduct
Kindly obey the guidance in this packet and instructions from the organizers during the retreat.
Materials
Please bring a notebook and a pen to class.
Attendance
Students should attend class on time and be seated five minutes prior to the session starting. Attendance to all assigned sessions is mandatory.
Program Conduct
Kindly obey the guidance in this packet and instructions from the organizers during the retreat.
- Please be kind and respectful towards others.
- Have respect with the teachers, staff, officials, neighbors, and program/site personnel.
- No foul language, arguing, fighting, or raising voices.
- Be respectful of site property, nature, and the general environment
Teachers
The following scholars will be leading the classes at the retreat.
Ustadh Amjad Tarsin
USTADH AMJAD TARSIN was born and raised in Ann Arbor, Michigan. He obtained his Bachelor of Arts
at the University of Michigan in English Literature and Islamic Studies. After completing his BA, Amjad
spent an intensive year studying at the illustrious Dar al-Mustafa for Islamic Sciences in Tarim, Yemen.
He then enrolled at Hartford Seminary’s Islamic Chaplaincy program where he completed his Master’s
Degree.
He previously served as the Executive Director and Head Chaplain of the Muslim Chaplaincy at the
University of Toronto, becoming Canada’s first full-time Muslim Chaplain at a university in September
2012. In addition to his administrative duties and leadership responsibilities, he counselled and taught
students.
Ustadh Amjad currently is a faculty member at Al-Maqasid, and he also teaches for Seekers Guidance
Online Islamic Seminary.
Dr. Nadia Katrangi
DR. NADIA KATRANGI is the Chairman and lead instructor of Good Tree Institute, a Quranic institute
fostering spiritual connection and personal discovery through the Quran.
As a scholar who is highly intellectual, especially in the field of medicine, Nadia uses her gifts at Good
Tree Institute to teach, translate and inspire. Growing up in Syria with a deep Muslim faith, Nadia was
always as much drawn to her religious studies as she was to her academic studies, receiving multiple
certifications by renowned scholars in Damascus, Syria. Her training in the Islamic Sciences included
The Biography of The Prophet Mohammad, Quranic Sciences and Interpretation, Islamic History, Islamic
Jurisprudence and the Sciences of Hadith (the legacy and tradition of the prophet Mohammad, peace
be upon him). Dr. Katrangi also received a certification of memorization and “tajweed” recitation (Ijaza)
in Quran from the esteemed scholar, Sheikh Hasan Al-Kurdi.
As she studied medicine, and eventually moved into pathology as a career path, she found her
academics and her faith continued to be intertwined. Today, she prides herself on finding beauty in the
Quran, provoking thoughtful and nurturing conversations and encouraging an open space for all who
attend Good Tree retreats, classes or camps.
Fiyyaz Jaat
FIYYAZ JAAT serves as ISNA’s Youth Programing and Services Department (YPSD) coordinator. He has a
strong background in youth development and counseling. Prior to joining ISNA, he spent his
professional life as director of a retail company in Toronto, but his passion was his volunteer work with
the youth. He has grown up in the Muslim Youth of North America (MYNA) since the age of 15, first as a
core member, and then as an advisor to MYNA Toronto for the last couple of years.
Aside from his active role with MYNA, he is passionate about all branches of youth development.
He acts as a middleman between masajid and the youth and their needs, and provides one on
one counseling in addition to parent/child workshops.
Uthman Ames
UTHMAN AMES is a Filipino American who converted to Islam in 1998. Shortly after his conversion he
moved to the San Francisco Bay Area and has since learned various Nasheeds. He regularly sings for the
Bay Area community weekly gatherings, and has traveled around the country and internationally to
perform with many renowned Nasheed artists. By profession Uthman Ames is a Registered Nurse BSN
and works for Kaiser Permanente. He is married with 4 beautiful children and loves Brazilian jujitsu.
Ustadh Amjad Tarsin
USTADH AMJAD TARSIN was born and raised in Ann Arbor, Michigan. He obtained his Bachelor of Arts
at the University of Michigan in English Literature and Islamic Studies. After completing his BA, Amjad
spent an intensive year studying at the illustrious Dar al-Mustafa for Islamic Sciences in Tarim, Yemen.
He then enrolled at Hartford Seminary’s Islamic Chaplaincy program where he completed his Master’s
Degree.
He previously served as the Executive Director and Head Chaplain of the Muslim Chaplaincy at the
University of Toronto, becoming Canada’s first full-time Muslim Chaplain at a university in September
2012. In addition to his administrative duties and leadership responsibilities, he counselled and taught
students.
Ustadh Amjad currently is a faculty member at Al-Maqasid, and he also teaches for Seekers Guidance
Online Islamic Seminary.
Dr. Nadia Katrangi
DR. NADIA KATRANGI is the Chairman and lead instructor of Good Tree Institute, a Quranic institute
fostering spiritual connection and personal discovery through the Quran.
As a scholar who is highly intellectual, especially in the field of medicine, Nadia uses her gifts at Good
Tree Institute to teach, translate and inspire. Growing up in Syria with a deep Muslim faith, Nadia was
always as much drawn to her religious studies as she was to her academic studies, receiving multiple
certifications by renowned scholars in Damascus, Syria. Her training in the Islamic Sciences included
The Biography of The Prophet Mohammad, Quranic Sciences and Interpretation, Islamic History, Islamic
Jurisprudence and the Sciences of Hadith (the legacy and tradition of the prophet Mohammad, peace
be upon him). Dr. Katrangi also received a certification of memorization and “tajweed” recitation (Ijaza)
in Quran from the esteemed scholar, Sheikh Hasan Al-Kurdi.
As she studied medicine, and eventually moved into pathology as a career path, she found her
academics and her faith continued to be intertwined. Today, she prides herself on finding beauty in the
Quran, provoking thoughtful and nurturing conversations and encouraging an open space for all who
attend Good Tree retreats, classes or camps.
Fiyyaz Jaat
FIYYAZ JAAT serves as ISNA’s Youth Programing and Services Department (YPSD) coordinator. He has a
strong background in youth development and counseling. Prior to joining ISNA, he spent his
professional life as director of a retail company in Toronto, but his passion was his volunteer work with
the youth. He has grown up in the Muslim Youth of North America (MYNA) since the age of 15, first as a
core member, and then as an advisor to MYNA Toronto for the last couple of years.
Aside from his active role with MYNA, he is passionate about all branches of youth development.
He acts as a middleman between masajid and the youth and their needs, and provides one on
one counseling in addition to parent/child workshops.
Uthman Ames
UTHMAN AMES is a Filipino American who converted to Islam in 1998. Shortly after his conversion he
moved to the San Francisco Bay Area and has since learned various Nasheeds. He regularly sings for the
Bay Area community weekly gatherings, and has traveled around the country and internationally to
perform with many renowned Nasheed artists. By profession Uthman Ames is a Registered Nurse BSN
and works for Kaiser Permanente. He is married with 4 beautiful children and loves Brazilian jujitsu.
The Retreat Center
Activities
YMCA Camp Cullen has a number of activities that are included in your registration fees. Included activities are:
Code of Conduct
The safety policies are in place for the safety of all participants and staff. We hope to foster an environment where everyone behaves respectfully and appropriately at all times. Adherence to the rules allows us to provide an exciting, fun and safe retreat for everyone.
The following items are not allowed at camp:
YMCA Camp Cullen has a number of activities that are included in your registration fees. Included activities are:
- Archery
- Canoeing
- Riflery
Code of Conduct
The safety policies are in place for the safety of all participants and staff. We hope to foster an environment where everyone behaves respectfully and appropriately at all times. Adherence to the rules allows us to provide an exciting, fun and safe retreat for everyone.
- Violations of these policies or codes, as listed below, can result in immediate dismissal without refund and at parent/guardian expense at the Director’s discretion.
- Endangering the health and/or welfare of yourself, other participants or staff in any way whatsoever.
- Offensive, profane and abusive language is unacceptable. Showing disrespect to others, participants and staff alike, will not be tolerated in any manner. Any act of physical aggression against a fellow participant or member of staff will result in immediate dismissal from camp.
- Possession, distribution or use of marijuana, alcohol, cigarettes, drugs, drug paraphernalia, chewing tobacco, fireworks, pornographic material and weapons will never be a part of our community.
- Absolute compliance with this rule is essential! Visual observation need not be necessary for immediate dismissal if there is enough evidence to corroborate that these risk-taking behaviors have occurred. This is considered a ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY.
- Participating in raids or pranks.
- Leaving the cabin after curfew.
- Participants are not allowed to visit the cabin or other living quarters of the opposite gender.
- Destruction of property is strictly prohibited. Should you damage or destroy any camp property through vandalism or willful disregards of proper use, above the normal wear and tear, you and your family will become liable and will be asked to reimburse the camp for the costs of repairing or replacing all the destroyed property. This includes defacing cabins with graffiti or causing damage/destruction in camp and out of camp.
- Gambling is prohibited.
- Participants agree that during our retreat they will dress and behave with modesty and decorum, avoiding clothing or swimwear that is inappropriate or that displays slogans promoting drugs or inappropriate behavior.
- Participants understand that they may not physically or verbally hurt others, and they will respect the feelings, safety and personal integrity of themselves and others. Profanities and sexual imagery are not an acceptable part of camp.
- No outside food is allowed in the dining hall at any time.
- No participant is permitted to leave the campgrounds except as part of a supervised camp activity and then only if authorized by the retreat Director.
- Thievery of any kind is prohibited and will be punishable up to and including dismissal from camp
The following items are not allowed at camp:
- Walkie-talkies, pagers, wireless e-mail devices and computers, pets, video cameras and anything that could endanger the health, safety or welfare of other participants or staff.
Important Organizer Contact Numbers
- Zeyn Patel | 713-530-6254
- Hina Syed | 832-647-1049
- Rehan Farooq | 713-306-9044
- Farooq Razvi | 832-586-5510
Packing List
- Sleeping bag (recommended) OR twin size bed sheets and a blanket
- Pillow
- Sheets
- Blanket
- One extra flat sheet per family, for outdoor prayers
- Slippers/sandals or flip flops for the lavatories
- Personal toiletry items (soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, hygienic items, etc.)
- Personal bath towel and washcloth for the showers
- Flashlight
- Bug spray
- Sunscreen
- Umbrellas/ponchos (in case there is rain)
- Long pants and sturdy shoes for activities (comfortable for walking/hiking/running)
- Light jacket in case of rain and evening time (sometimes cools off after the sun sets)
- Paper or notebook(s) and pen/pencils for note-taking
- Camera for breathtaking views and memories
- Prayer rug
- Reusable water bottle (we will provide the water to refill it)
- Extra masks
Accommodations
The wood cabins we will be residing in feature bathrooms and showers, and a twin sized mattress for each person.
The bunks are a little smaller than twin size, and attendees will need to bring their own sheets, pillows, blankets, towels, and toiletries. Men and women are housed in separate sections of the site. Children over the age of 7 are housed by gender as well.
Mobile phones have reception; however, Wi-Fi access will not be available for attendees. Attendees are reminded that the purpose of this retreat is to disconnect from the world and connect to Allah.
Any questions or concerns students have should be reported to a retreat organizer.
You will meet all retreat organizers at the welcome session on Friday.
The bunks are a little smaller than twin size, and attendees will need to bring their own sheets, pillows, blankets, towels, and toiletries. Men and women are housed in separate sections of the site. Children over the age of 7 are housed by gender as well.
Mobile phones have reception; however, Wi-Fi access will not be available for attendees. Attendees are reminded that the purpose of this retreat is to disconnect from the world and connect to Allah.
Any questions or concerns students have should be reported to a retreat organizer.
You will meet all retreat organizers at the welcome session on Friday.
Meals
Friday
Dinner:
Saturday
Breakfast:
Sunday
Breakfast:
Dinner:
- Grilled Hamburgers and Hot Links, Curly Fries, Baked Beans, Potato Salad, Salad Bar, Fruit, Dessert
Saturday
Breakfast:
- Breakfast Tacos w/ Eggs, Halal Bacon/Sausage, Seasoned Potatoes, Assorted Cereals, Fruit, Yogurt, Milk, Juice, Tea, Coffee
- Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken Breast, Mashed Potatoes/Gravy, Seasoned Green Beans, Rolls, Fruit
- Spaghetti with Meat Sauce, Fresh Steamed Vegetables, Garlic Bread, Salad Bar, Dessert
Sunday
Breakfast:
- Waffles & Chicken, Eggs, Cheesy Breakfast Potatoes, Assorted Cereals, Fruit, Yogurt, Milk, Juice, Tea, Coffee
- All meals will be Zabiha halal.
- Vegetarian options are available at each meal. Please advise in advance if you will require a vegetarian meal.
Children/Youth
Children/Youth ages 4-18 (up to High School) will be required to remain in their designated sessions/activities. This does not change the parents’ ultimate responsibility for ensuring a proper learning environment is achieved. Please note that parents will NOT be allowed to remove their children from their sessions except during designated times, except in the case of an emergency. Anyone not abiding by this rule may be asked to leave the retreat.
Weather
The average temperatures in November are: high of 68 F; low of 44 F. Attendees should pack accordingly. Please bring proper walking/hiking shoes for planned activities.
Prayer Times
Day |
Nov |
Fajr |
Sunrise |
Dhuhr |
Asr |
Maghrib |
Isha |
Fri |
22 |
6:32 |
7:37 |
1:06 |
4:11 |
6:33 |
7:40 |
Sat |
23 |
6:32 |
7:38 |
1:06 |
4:10 |
6:32 |
7:40 |
Sun |
24 |
5:33 |
6:39 |
12:06 |
3:10 |
5:32 |
6:39 |
Map of Camp Cullen
The Illuminated Prophet
RISALA FOUNDATION FALL 2022 RETREAT
LocationSchedule
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2022
Time |
Event |
Location |
Audience |
7:00 PM |
Arrive at Camp / Check in |
- |
- |
7:45 PM to 8:00 PM |
Prayer |
Parade Lawn |
All |
8:00 PM to 9:00 PM |
Dinner |
Dining Hall |
All |
9:00 PM to 9:20 PM |
Ice Breakers |
Dining Hall |
All |
9:20 PM to 10:20 PM |
Opening Remarks |
Dining Hall Classroom |
All |
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2022
Time |
Event |
Location |
Audience |
6:30 AM to 7:15 AM |
Prayer/Naseeha |
Parade Lawn |
All |
7:30 AM to 8:30 AM |
Breakfast |
Dining Hall |
All |
8:30 AM to 8:50 AM |
Ice Breakers |
Dining Hall |
Adults |
9:00 AM to 10:00 AM |
Hayride |
Hayride |
Early Elementary |
9:00 AM to 10:00 AM |
Hike Leading to Lecture |
Rock Quarry |
Middle School & High School |
9:00 AM to 10:00 AM |
Arts & Crafts |
Art Center |
Elementary |
9:00 AM to 10:30 AM |
Hike Leading to Lecture |
Rock Quarry |
Adults |
10:00 AM to 11:00 AM |
Open Play |
Parade Lawn, Tire Zip, Jump Pad |
High School |
10:00 AM to 11:00 AM |
Archery, Riflery |
Archery, Rifle Range |
Middle School |
10:00 AM to 11:00 AM |
Lecture (*10:15) |
Art Center Seating |
Elementary |
10:00 AM to 11:00 AM |
Arts & Crafts |
Art Center |
Early Elementary |
11:00 AM to 12:00 PM |
Lecture |
Weekly Chapel |
Adults |
11:00 AM to 12:00 PM |
Lecture |
Art Center Seating |
High School |
11:00 AM to 12:00 PM |
Pipeline Slide, Basketball |
Marathon Pipeline Slide |
Middle School |
11:00 AM to 12:00 PM |
Organized Sports |
Athletic Field |
Early Elementary & Elementary |
12:00 PM to 1:00 PM |
Lunch |
Dining Hall |
All |
1:10 PM to 1:30 PM |
Prayer |
Parade Lawn |
All |
1:30 PM to 3:30 PM |
Outdoor Activities |
Canoeing, Riflery, Archery, Pipeline Slide, Basketball, Athletic Field, Tire Zip |
All |
3:40 PM to 4:45 PM |
Lecture |
Weekly Chapel |
Adults |
3:40 PM to 4:45 PM |
Organized Sports |
Athletic Field |
High School & Middle School |
3:40 PM to 4:45 PM |
Archery, Riflery |
Archery, Rifle Range |
Elementary |
3:40 PM to 4:45 PM |
Arts & Crafts |
Art Center |
Early Elementary |
4:50 PM to 6:20 PM |
Interactive Activity |
Dining Hall |
Adults, Middle School & High School |
4:50 PM to 6:20 PM |
Pipeline Slide, Basketball |
Marathon Pipeline Slide |
Elementary |
4:50 PM to 6:20 PM |
Open Play |
Parade Lawn, Tire Zip, Jump Pad |
Early Elementary |
6:30 PM to 7:00 PM |
Prayer |
Parade Lawn |
All |
6:30 PM to 7:00 PM |
Dinner |
Dining Hall |
All |
6:30 PM to 7:00 PM |
Hike to Campfire |
Weekly Chapel |
All |
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2022
Time |
Event |
Location |
Audience |
5:45 AM to 6:30 AM |
Arrive at Camp / Check in |
Arrive at Camp / Check in |
Arrive at Camp / Check in |
7:00 AM to 8:00 AM |
Prayer |
Parade Lawn |
All |
8:00 AM to 8:20 AM |
Dinner |
Dining Hall |
All |
8:30 AM to 9:30 AM |
Ice Breakers |
Dining Hall |
All |
8:30 AM to 9:30 AM |
Opening Remarks |
Dining Hall Classroom |
All |
8:30 AM to 9:30 AM |
Lecture |
||
8:30 AM to 9:30 AM |
Workshop |
High School |
|
8:30 AM to 9:30 AM |
Open Play |
Middle School |
|
8:30 AM to 9:30 AM |
Organized Sports |
Elementary |
|
8:30 AM to 9:30 AM |
Hayride |
Early Elementary & Elementary |
|
9:30 AM to 11:00 AM |
Lecture/Conclusion |
Weekly Chapel |
Adults |
9:30 AM to 11:00 AM |
Archery, Riflery, Pipeline, Basketball |
Archery, Rifle Range, Marathon Pipeline, Basketball |
High School |
9:30 AM to 11:00 AM |
Organized Sports |
Athletic Field |
Middle School |
9:30 AM to 11:00 AM |
Open Play |
Parade Lawn, Tire Zip, Jump Pad |
Early Elementary & Elementary |
Note: The children will be divided into the following groups:
Early Elementary |
KG to 2nd grade |
Elementary |
3rd to 5th grade |
Middle School |
6th to 8th |
High School |
9th to 12th |
Risala Retreat 2022: "Courageous Stewardship- Glad Tidings of Paradise For The Strangers"
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2022
Time |
Event |
Speaker(s) |
Audience |
7:00 PM |
Arrive at Camp / Check in |
- |
- |
7:45 PM to 8:00 PM |
Isha Prayer Location: Parade Lawn |
- |
- |
8:00 PM to 9:00 PM |
Dinner Location: Dining Hall | Grilled Hamburgers and Hot Links, Curly Fries, Baked Beans, Potato Salad, Salad Bar, Fruit, Dessert |
- |
- |
9:00 PM to 9:20 PM |
Ice Breakers Location: Dining Hall |
Fiyyaz Jaat |
All |
9:20 PM to 10:20 PM |
Opening Remarks |
Dining Hall Classroom |
All |
Session 1: Oh Ye, Captains of Our Faith in Rocky Seas
9:20 PM - 10:20 PM |
Location: Dining Hall Classroom A |
Ustadh Amjad Tarsin & Dr. Nadia Katrangi Nasheed by Sidi Uthman Ames |
All |
9:20 PM - 10:20 PM |
“And (remember) as your Lord said to the Angels, “Lo! I am about to place a vicegerent on earth.” [QURAN 2:30] “Vicegerent” on one hand means “khalifah” or “successor” but on the other, is also understood to be “one who is delegated power on behalf of a higher presence”, otherwise known as a steward. Each of us are deputized by Allah to serve as vicegerents on Earth, to safeguard both the environment and our religion. We are captains of our faith and must endeavor to preserve the sanctity of our religion and the tenets of our faith in treacherous waters navigating an era of anti-Islamic rhetoric, violence, poverty, racial and gender inequality, injustices and social greed. |
Ustadh Amjad Tarsin & Dr. Nadia Katrangi Nasheed by Sidi Uthman Ames |
All |
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2022
Time |
Event |
Location |
Audience |
6:30 AM - 6:45 AM |
Fajr Location: Parade Lawn |
- |
- |
6:45 AM - 7:15 AM |
Session 2: Naseeha Location: Parade Lawn |
Shaykh Nur Abdullah |
All |
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM |
Breakfast Location: Dining Hall | Breakfast Tacos w/ Eggs, Halal Bacon/Sausage, Seasoned Potatoes, Assorted Cereals, Fruit, Yogurt, Milk, Juice, Tea, Coffee |
- |
- |
8:30 AM - 8:50 AM |
Ice Breakers Location: Dining Hall |
Fiyyaz Jaat |
Adults |
Session 3A: An Examination of Surah Al-Hujurat – A Lesson in Adab and Khulq
9:00 AM - 10:30 AM |
Location: Nature Hike to a Rock Quarry |
Ustadh Amjad Tarsin Nasheed by Sidi Uthman Ames |
Adults |
9:00 AM - 10:30 AM |
The idea of “khulq” is one that is inclined to conservation rather than excess and wastefulness. The word, sometimes interchangeable with “adab”, combines the moral and behavioral aspects of a person who seek moderation, refined social mannerisms and good social character. This session will examine in detail Surah Al-Hujurat, the 49 th chapter of the Holy Quran, which provides key lessons in etiquette and decorum with our Maker, fellow believers, family, friends and the world. |
Ustadh Amjad Tarsin Nasheed by Sidi Uthman Ames |
Adults |
Session 3B: Confidence in Who You Are
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM |
Location: Nature Hike to a Rock Quarry |
Fiyyaz Jaat |
Middle School & High School |
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM |
There are many names and labels that may be attached to you: “Muslim” and perhaps also “teen”, “student”, “friend”, “brother” or “sister”. But beyond these terms, who are you and what do you stand for? How can you use the traits from each identity to craft who you are now and who you will grow to be? |
Fiyyaz Jaat |
Middle School & High School |
Session 3C: Mr. and Ms. Manners
10:15 AM - 11:00 AM |
Location: Art Center Seating |
Fiyyaz Jaat |
Elementary School |
10:15 AM - 11:00 AM |
Adab is having exceptional manners and presenting them well to everyone around you. No matter what challenges you may be going through, hold tight to your Islam and learn how to put your best foot forward through this session |
Fiyyaz Jaat |
Elementary School |
Session 4A: Following the Blueprint
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM |
Location: Art Center Seating |
Dr. Nadia Katrangi |
Adults |
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM |
As the archetype of unwavering faith in times of hardship, the Prophet Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم never fails to set the tone on how we can fortify our Islam and use our faith to shield us from the trials and tribulations of everyday life. Today, we will examine forty (40) hadith rooted in Islam’s five pillars as a blueprint on how to emulate the example of the Prophet Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم to achieve spiritual refinement. |
Dr. Nadia Katrangi |
Adults |
Session 4B: The Quest of a Curious Muslim
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM |
Location: Parade Lawn |
Ustadh Amjad Tarsin |
High School |
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM |
Seeking knowledge from the cradle to the grave is a basic belief of Islam. You will have many questions as you continue to grow and Islam encourages you to ask them and seek knowledge, with the help of the adults around you. This session explores why knowledge is power and curiosity is such an important trait as a Muslim. |
Ustadh Amjad Tarsin |
High School |
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM |
Lunch Location: Cafeteria | Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken Breast, Mashed Potatoes/Gravy, Seasoned Green Beans, Rolls, Frui |
- |
- |
1:10 PM - 1:30 PM |
Dhuhr / Asr (Combined prayers for those who follow that method) Location: Parade Lawn |
- |
- |
1:30 PM - 3:30 PM |
Outdoor Activities |
- |
- |
1:30 PM - 3:30 PM |
Nasheed Practice (Optional) Location: Dining Hall |
Sidi Uthman Ames |
Sidi Uthman Ames |
Session 5: Throwing Our Hands Up (in Dua’a)
3:40 PM - 4:45 PM |
Location: Weekly Chapel |
Nasheed by Sidi Uthman Ames Dr. Nadia Katrangi |
Adults |
3:40 PM - 4:45 PM |
“And when My slaves ask you (O’ Muhammad) concerning Me, then (answer them), I am indeed near (to them by My Knowledge). I respond to the invocations of the supplicant when he calls on Me (without any mediator or intercessor).” [QURAN 2:186] It is easy to become overwhelmed with the world around us and circumstances beyond our control. Our ability to directly speak with Allah is our lifeline for managing daily affairs, marking moments of joy and gratitude and expressing despair. What are some ways to incorporate dua’a into you and your family’s routine and what are the benefits of doing so? |
Nasheed by Sidi Uthman Ames Dr. Nadia Katrangi |
Adults |
Session 6: Interactive Workshop
4:50 PM - 6:20 PM |
Location: Dining HallLocation: Weekly Chapel |
Fiyyaz Jaat |
Adults, High School & Middle School |
4:50 PM - 6:20 PM |
Interactive Activity [An event that helps you frame the day's lessons] |
Fiyyaz Jaat |
Adults, High School & Middle School |
6:30 PM - 7:00 PM |
Maghrib & Isha (Combined prayers for those who follow that method) Location: Parade Lawn |
- |
- |
7:10 PM - 8:10 PM |
Dinner Location: Dining Hall | Spaghetti with Meat Sauce, Fresh Steamed Vegetables, Garlic Bread, Salad Bar, Dessert |
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- |
Session 7 [Campfire]: The Roadmap to the Hereafter
8:30 PM - 10:30 PM |
Location: Weekly Chapel |
Ustadh Amjad Tarsin, Dr. Nadia Katrangi & Fiyyaz Jaat Nasheed by Sidi Uthman Ames |
All |
8:30 PM - 10:30 PM |
Binding each of us together, despite our assorted upbringings and cultures, is the spiritual roadmap constructed to guide us, the Holy Quran. Designed as an everlasting guide, the answer to our burning questions and an awakening for our souls, the Quran allows us to refocus our minds, bodies and souls from the screens of the dunya to the pages of the deen. This session will explore how to utilize the Holy Quran to build your iman, traverse back to the faith when you lose direction and provide light in our darkest hours |
Ustadh Amjad Tarsin, Dr. Nadia Katrangi & Fiyyaz Jaat Nasheed by Sidi Uthman Ames |
All |
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2022
Time |
Event |
Location |
Audience |
6:30 AM - 6:45 AM |
Fajr Location: Parade Lawn |
- |
- |
6:45 AM - 7:15 AM |
Session 2: Naseeha Location: Parade Lawn |
Shaykh Nur Abdullah |
All |
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM |
Breakfast Location: Dining Hall | Breakfast Tacos w/ Eggs, Halal Bacon/Sausage, Seasoned Potatoes, Assorted Cereals, Fruit, Yogurt, Milk, Juice, Tea, Coffee |
- |
- |
8:30 AM - 8:50 AM |
Ice Breakers Location: Dining Hall |
Fiyyaz Jaat |
Adults |
Session 9A: Taking Cues From the Past
8:30 AM - 9:30 AM |
Location: Weekly Chapel |
Ustadh Amjad Tarsin Nasheed by Sidi Uthman Ames |
Adults |
8:30 AM - 9:30 AM |
The common threads running through the fabric of our beautiful religion are meticulously woven in the folds of Islamic history. Let us review the stewardship that each of the Caliphs provided to us throughout the course of their own caliphates and religious journeys, including how they envisioned leadership in various times and under different circumstances and how this can illuminate the context of our own time and space today |
Ustadh Amjad Tarsin Nasheed by Sidi Uthman Ames |
Adults |
Session 9B: Using the Five Senses to Build Your Iman
8:30 AM - 9:30 AM |
Location: Weekly Chapel |
Fiyyaz Jaat |
High School |
8:30 AM - 9:30 AM |
The five senses—sound, sight, taste, touch, and smell—are directly connected to the inner senses that define us as human beings and Muslims: understanding, knowledge, language and memory. This session will discuss how the use of our five senses in combination with practicing the five pillars will help our spiritual senses to also evolve. |
Fiyyaz Jaat |
High School |
Session 10: The Evolution of YOU
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM |
Location: Weekly Chapel |
Dr. Nadia Katrangi |
Adults |
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM |
Abu Hurraira reported: “Whoever takes a path in search of knowledge, Allah will cause him to walk in one of the paths to Paradise. Indeed the Angels will lower their wings in great pleasure with the one who seeks knowledge.” [SAHIH MUSLIM 2699] Pursuing a path seeking knowledge is an eternal journey which seeds a deep rooted evolution in your individualism—from your religious understandings to political and social involvement, cultural perceptions and emotional intelligence. This session will delve into how Islam encourages us to read, write, travel and interact kindly with one another and learn to constantly become the best versions of ourselves |
Dr. Nadia Katrangi |
Adults |
Session 11: Conclusion (Panel Discussion)
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM |
Location: Weekly Chapel |
Ustadh Amjad Tarsin & Dr. Nadia Katrangi Nasheed by Sidi Uthman Ames |
Adults |
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM |
A wrap-up discussion on ways to keep these lessons alive after the Retreat. |
Ustadh Amjad Tarsin & Dr. Nadia Katrangi Nasheed by Sidi Uthman Ames |
Adults |