(SAINT LOUIS, M.O., 10/14/13) - On Tuesday, October 15, St. Louis Muslims will mark the end of the yearly pilgrimage to Mecca, or Hajj, with communal prayers and celebrations at locations across the city. One of the larger celebrations will take place at the Dar Al Jalal Islamic Center in Hazelwood, Mo.
The prayers and the holiday that follows are called Eid ul-Adha (EED-al-ODD-ha), or "festival of the sacrifice." Eid ul-Adha also commemorates the Prophet Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son Ishmael at God's command. The holiday is celebrated with the prayers, small gifts for children, distribution of meat to the needy, and social gatherings. During this holiday, Muslims exchange the greeting "Eid Mubarak" or "blessed Eid." Each year, some two million Muslims, including thousands of American Muslims, go on Hajj.
WHEN: Tuesday, October 15 from 9 to 10:30 a.m.
WHERE: Dar Al Jalal Islamic Center, 8945 Dunn Road, Hazelwood, MO 63042
Read more: MEDIA ADVISORY: St. Louis Muslims to Mark End of Hajj with Prayers