FAQs

When are these events?

The first and third Thursday of every month at 8:00 PM CST. The first Thursday will be our Quranic Study Group and the third Thursday of the month will either be a Ruh Roundtable Discussion or a Sadaqah in Focus event. So mark your calendars and please bring your whole self to this space!

Who’s behind this initiative?

We’re a diverse group of Muslims with different faith histories, experiences, perspectives, and personal identities. We’re not experts on Islam, nor are we looking to pretend to be. We’re running these events mostly for our own nourishment — but if they can be of benefit, we’d love to have others join in as well.

How will these events work?

All events, with the exception of an annual in-person retreat, are held on Zoom. Make sure to join our listserv to receive updates on what the events will entail and the Zoom link to join. The day of the event, all participants should come prepared to be engaged as part of the experience. Come with your mind ready, your heart active, your microphone on, and (if you’re comfortable) your webcam enabled.

So will this be like a halaqah series at the mosque?

We hope not. These events are meant to elicit open and authentic conversations on faith. We’re not here to offer bonafide truths, but rather to create space to share insights, struggles, and reflections; while simultaneously engaging in active heartwork towards spiritual growth. It’s about being honest about our fumbles and fears — and hopefully, together, finding our footing.

If that’s what your halaqah experience has historically been — well, invite us next time. We’d love to partake.

Will there be scholars and imams leading the sessions?

Sometimes, but mostly not. The idea behind these events isn’t to be taught any essential, unassailable truths, but rather to engage with faith openly (and sometimes brazenly) without any fear of judgment. From time to time, we may invite a prominent speaker who aligns with this philosophy — but we will not under any circumstances put forward a speaker who does not uphold our spirit of sincerity, inclusion, and positivity. If you’ve been burned before by “spiritual conversations”, so have we. This is our attempt to offer something different.

I used to attend the old Grassroots events in Houston. Will these be like those?

There will certainly be some remnants of the old Grassroot event series. These events, like those of the past, will center around open dialogue and the exchange of ideas from everyday Muslims. Where these will be different, however, is the emphasis on spiritual growth and heart-work. Whereas the old Grassroot series focused on social commentary and challenging the community to make progress on its weaknesses— this series will focus on the internal journey relevant to our own spirituality.

I’m curious, but I’m not what you consider a “traditional” Muslim. Should I attend?

Yes! These are not events for your prototypical cardboard Muslim cut-out (whatever that may be). We’re putting forward these events to give a safe space for everyone to achieve spiritual growth. And while we understand that it can be hard to engage in spiritual spaces when you’ve been disappointed before, we encourage you to give it a shot. We can’t promise that this will be exactly what you need — but we’re doing what we can to make this the home many of us are secretly hoping for.

I identify as an LGBTQ+ Muslim. Should I attend?

Yes (if you feel comfortable). We are putting forward these events with an intention of being mindful of the full-range of Muslim experiences. We’ll be setting norms in each of our events meant to preserve a culture of positivity, inclusion, and affirmation — and we’ll treat everyone’s spiritual story as valid. If an event we’re hosting resonates with you, then give it a shot. (And if you do, but still find it to be lacking, shoot us a note at team@grassrootislam.org to let us know how we can improve).

How can I help?

Great question! First, be sure to fill out our webform (Join the Community) to introduce yourself, and let us know of your interest. Then, shoot us a line at team@grassrootislam.org with the subject line of “Volunteer Interest”. Include in the email a bit more about yourself, why you want to get involved, and any skills or ideas you think you could contribute. We’re a small team, so we may not be quick to respond, but we will get back to you.

How can I join?

It’s simple. Just fill out the form below. We’ll keep you informed of events as they come.