About Sheikh Abdullah Smith
In December 2023, Sheikh Abdullah Smith joined MCMC as the new Imam, succeeding Sheikh Raouf Zaman, who retired after nearly 20 years of dedicated service. With over 25 years of experience, Sheikh Abdullah has made significant contributions to teaching, lecturing, and counseling.
Sheikh Abdullah has a B.A. in Narrative Traditions (Hadith) and Theology from the University of Madinah, where he graduated Summa Cum Laude; and an Associate of Arts in Arabic for Non-Native Speakers from the Institute of Arabic Language.
Specializing in Hadith research, Sheikh Abdullah focuses on researching and mapping the chains of narrators (Isnad), building comprehensive narratives to help modern audiences understand the context and connections behind the Hadiths.
In his previous role as Director of Religious Affairs at the Quran & Sunnah Association of Central FL, he has taught over 20 books, delivered numerous lectures in English and Arabic, and provided counseling and mediation to individuals and couples. His tenure at the Islamic Society of Greater Houston and The Islamic Center of Central Missouri saw the development of over 100 educational programs, including a successful Hajj and Umrah coaching program, and the delivery of presentations to large audiences.
In his personal time, Sheikh Abdullah enjoys spending quality moments with his children and grandchildren.
Mission Statement:
The Office of the Imam serves as a cornerstone of the community, dedicated to providing spiritual, educational, and moral guidance rooted in Islamic teachings. Our mission is to inspire, educate, and guide members while fostering a vibrant, cohesive, and God-conscious community. By upholding the principles of Islam, the Office of the Imam works to create an environment of respect, learning, and unity, ensuring that every member feels spiritually nurtured and supported in their practice.
Core Values & Conduct:
Integrity – Have honesty, transparency, and sincerity in all interactions, serving the community with humility and purpose.
Compassion – Approach every person and situation with empathy, understanding that people come from diverse backgrounds and experiences.
Accountability – Remain accountable to both the mosque’s board and the broader community, welcoming feedback and being open to continuous improvement.
Inclusivity – Strive to create a welcoming environment that respects the diversity within Islam and the unique backgrounds of all community members.
Commitment to Islamic Teachings – Uphold the teachings of Islam with a commitment to personal growth and adherence to the Quran and Sunnah
Vision & Areas of Focus
Religious Leadership
The Office of the Imam provides religious leadership, overseeing the coordination of all five daily prayers, Friday sermons (khutbahs), and special events such as Eid. The Office of the Imam is committed to delivering clear and accessible religious guidance rooted in Islamic teachings, tailored to the needs of our growing community. Additionally, the office offers spiritual counseling and support for individuals and families, assisting them in understanding and applying Islamic principles in their daily lives.
Educational Initiatives
The Office of the Imam organizes and leads classes on the Quran, Hadith, Fiqh, and other core Islamic sciences, making knowledge accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds. It also coordinates regular lectures and talks, both within and beyond the masjid, to deepen understanding and strengthen the community’s connection to their faith. By collaborating with teachers, volunteers, and committees, the Office of the Imam ensures that all educational programs are rooted in and aligned with Islamic principles.
Community Engagement
The Office of the Imam fosters an inclusive environment by actively engaging all members—men, women, youth, and seniors—in both religious and social activities. It promotes unity and mutual respect, creating a welcoming sense of belonging for individuals from diverse backgrounds and schools of thought. Additionally, the Office of the Imam provides guidance on social, moral, and ethical matters, supporting members in applying Islamic principles to their daily lives.
Counseling and Conflict Resolution
The Office of the Imam provides individual and family counseling on spiritual, personal, and social matters while respecting confidentiality and acting with compassion. It mediates conflicts within the community, striving for resolutions based on fairness, justice, and Islamic principles, and offers support during times of crisis to help individuals and families navigate difficult situations with faith and resilience.
Outreach and Representation
The Office of the Imam represents the masjid and Muslim community in interfaith dialogues, civic engagements, and outreach activities. it builds relationships with local organizations, faith groups, and civic leaders, promoting mutual respect and understanding. It also advocates for the needs and rights of the community, especially when addressing issues such as Islamophobia, social justice, and other critical concerns.
How to Reach the Imam
Scheduling an Appointment:
To schedule an appointment with the Imam, please use the following link:
https://mcmcnj.org/imam/appointment
For Questions:
Please send an email to imam@mcmcnj.org
Walk ins
Daily 1 hour after Fajr.
Monday- Friday 1 hour after Asr.
Imam may be away due to following activities:
- Interfaith meetings
- Interfaith programs
- Weddings
- Janazah (bath & burial)
- Family counseling
- Others
- Imam Abdullah’s phone: (732) 463-2004 x101
- Imam Abdullah’s email: imam@mcmcnj.org