Plano Mosque Open House Brings Muslims and Neighbors Together to Learn About Islam Amid Protest
The Islamic Association of Collin County opened its doors to the neighbors for tours and discussions about Islam and Sharia, while a small group of protesters gathered outside in Plano.
The Islamic Association of Collin County welcomed neighbors to its Plano mosque for a community open house designed to encourage dialogue, answer questions about Islam, and build understanding across faiths. While visitors toured the mosque and met members of the Muslim community, a small group of protesters gathered outside.
Learning Beyond Headlines
The gymnasium was filled with visitors eager to learn about Islam firsthand. Dr. Sabeel Ahmed said the goal was to replace misconceptions with conversation.
“Instead of getting news about Islam from the media or social media, people are here. They’re opening up, meeting Muslims, and asking questions.”
Ahmed shared how one visitor brought passages she had seen online and asked about Sharia and Islam.
“She said, ‘You know what? That makes sense.’ That’s exactly the reason we are here.”
Building Understanding Across Faiths
People from different religious backgrounds attended the event to better understand their Muslim neighbors. One attendee said learning directly from others helps strengthen communities.
“It’s better to go, to learn, to build that understanding… so that we can help one another and strengthen our communities.”
Visitor Brenda Fielding described an emotional moment after trying on a hijab and embracing a Muslim woman she had just met.
“It felt honest. It felt real. We’re just people. We need to love each other.”
A Different Message Outside
Outside the mosque, a small group of Christian protesters held signs and preached to people arriving for the event.
Street preacher Rich Penkoski said his goal was not confrontation but conversion.
“I want them to be saved. I want them to go to heaven.”
He added that success would be encouraging even one person to research Christianity or reconsider converting to Islam.
An Open Invitation
Rich Matthews concluded the report by encouraging anyone curious about Islam to visit a local mosque.
Many mosques regularly host community open houses, while others welcome visitors who arrange a tour in advance, offering an opportunity to ask questions, meet local Muslims, and learn about the faith firsthand.