The Imam Hussein Islamic Society (IHIS) is a Canadian nonprofit religious organization based in Edmonton, Alberta. It primarily serves the spiritual, cultural, and social needs of the Shia Muslim community, especially Farsi-speaking families of Iranian descent residing in Edmonton and surrounding communities such as Sherwood Park, St. Albert, and Leduc. Registered under the business number 824889596RR0001, IHIS operates as a charitable society with a focus on fostering Islamic education, cultural activities, and community support.

History and Background

The origins of IHIS trace back to the mid-2000s, when members of the Iranian Shia Muslim community in Edmonton began gathering informally in rental halls to observe major religious events. Over time, the group formalized into an organized society to better serve the growing community’s religious and cultural needs. In 2017, IHIS acquired a large facility which also hosts the Al Baqir Academy, a K-12 religious charter school, reflecting the society’s commitment to religious education for youth and families[3].

Mission and Activities

IHIS’s mission centers on supporting the spiritual growth and cultural identity of its members while promoting Canadian values such as equality, fairness, and tolerance. The society provides a broad range of programs including:

• Weekly and seasonal religious events, especially during significant Islamic months such as Ramadan, Muharram, and Safar[1].
• Qur'an teaching, recitation, interpretation, and Islamic studies programs tailored to various age groups[4].
• Youth programs aimed at engaging younger community members in religious and cultural education[3].
• Cultural and social activities that strengthen the sense of community among members.
• Support services for newcomers to help them integrate into Canadian society and community life[3].
• Hosting wedding ceremonies and other community functions as a grassroots religious organization[3].

Regular events include Qur'an recitations and supplications, congregational prayers, simple iftar meals during Ramadan, reflective lectures on Quranic verses, and weekend educational lectures, held at their center in Edmonton[1].

Community and Demographics

IHIS’s membership is comprised predominantly of Iranian-Canadian Shia Muslims who speak Farsi, but the organization remains inclusive and open to the broader Muslim community in the Edmonton area. It functions as both a religious and cultural hub, connecting families and individuals through shared faith and heritage, and providing a base for social and educational activities[3].

Facilities and Outreach

The society's main facility includes spaces for worship, education, and community events. The Al Baqir Academy on-site exemplifies IHIS’s dedication to providing comprehensive religious and academic instruction. IHIS also maintains a library and conducts various cultural programs, aiming to serve its members throughout all stages of life from birth to elderly care[3][4].

In summary, the Imam Hussein Islamic Society (IHIS) is a vital institution within Edmonton’s Muslim community, dedicated to preserving Shia Islamic traditions and Iranian cultural identity while fostering integration and mutual respect within Canadian society.

Note: The above summary has been composed using publicly available information from IHIS’s official page and charitable profiles.