On Thursday 29th September, eleven men of St. John's Fellowship had a very interesting and uplifting visit to the Shah Jahan Mosque in Woking. 

The Mosque was the first purpose-built mosque in the UK, opened in 1889, as a place of worship for the Students of the Oriental Institute. It is a beautiful Grade 1 listed building providing space for 60 worshipers.

Adjacent to the Mosque is a much larger building with a capacity of 600 worshippers. As we entered, the Iman (who was born and raised in Woking) welcomed us and after removing our shoes, we were treated to a fascinating presentation and discussion on the Islamic religion and how it has developed in Woking. The whole site gave a great sense of peace and serenity and welcome to all.

Interesting facts included; prayers take place 5 times a day, they believe in the Old Testament, they believe Jesus was a prophet, rather than the Son of God, but that he will come again at the end time.

To close off the day we retired to The New Inn at Send to discuss what we had learned and to socialize over a hearty lunch.