Islamic organization in Indonesia to buy ancient church in Spain and convert it into a mosque
The South China Daily (SCMP) revealed today, Tuesday, that the largest Islamic organization in Indonesia is looking to buy an ancient church in Spain and turn it into a mosque that includes major services for the country’s Muslims.
The newspaper stated in a report, translated by Shia News Agency, that “the Muhammadiyah Organization in Indonesia, which is the second largest Islamic organization in the country, is looking to buy and convert a church in the Spanish (Alcala) region to convert it into a mosque for Muslims.”
It added that “the Islamic organization seeks to enlighten the universe with the teachings of moderate Islam, and sees the urgent need to spread it in Spain.”
The report quoted the head of the organization’s branch in East Java, Saad Ibrahim, as saying: “The organization has moved at the present time to buy an old church located about 15 minutes’ drive from the Spanish city of Madrid.”
He added, “We hope that these aspirations aiming at spreading the Islamic religion and its tolerant teachings will be fulfilled, so that the blessings of God will be fulfilled.”
Saad Ibrahim did not mention the name of the church, but according to information seen by the Shia News Agency, it was previously a mosque for Muslims during their rule of Andalusia. It is located on an area of 3,000 square meters and was offered for sale at a price of 2.9 million US dollars.
