Prayer Times
Fajr
Dhuhr
Asr
Maghrib
Isha
Prayer Times
Fajr
Dhuhr
Asr
Maghrib
Isha
New Muslims
Hillsborough Masjid is a welcoming space open to people exploring the Islamic faith. We welcome people that are interested in Islam, recently converted or reconnecting with their Islamic faith.
To be a Muslim means to believe in and submit to one God – Allah – in peace and sincerity. The word “Muslim” means “one who submits.” Muslims believe that Allah is the same God worshipped by earlier prophets such as Adam, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus, and that Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is the final messenger who brought the complete message of Islam. Being Muslim is not only about belief but also about living a life of compassion, honesty, and service to others. It’s about nurturing a direct relationship with God through prayer, reflection, and good deeds. Becoming Muslim doesn’t mean losing your identity or culture. It means aligning your heart and actions with faith. Muslims come from every background and walks of life, and Islam is a path meant for everyone seeking purpose, peace, and connection with their Creator.
Becoming Muslim is simple. You enter Islam by sincerely saying and believing the declaration of faith (the Shahada):
“Ashhadu an la ilaha illa Allah, wa ashhadu anna Muhammadur Rasul Allah.”
This means: “I bear witness that there is no god but Allah, and I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.”
You can take your Shahada either privately or publicly. It’s completely up to you. Doing it publicly can help connect you with the local Muslim community and give you access to guidance and encouragement. However, if you’re not yet comfortable visiting a mosque or want a quiet, personal moment with God, it’s perfectly fine to take your Shahada privately. You can always share it with the community later when you’re ready. What matters most is your intention, faith, and desire to live as a Muslim.
After taking your Shahada, you are fully Muslim. Spiritually, all previous sins are wiped clean, and your record begins fresh. Practically, the next steps are about learning gradually: how to pray, understand basic Islamic beliefs, and live with sincerity and kindness. Hillsborough Masjid offers “New Muslim” programmes that introduce the foundations of Islam at your own pace. You may also wish to learn how to perform wudu (ablution) and the daily prayers, which are the heart of Muslim life. Take your time. There’s no rush or pressure to know everything right away. Islam encourages steady growth, community connection, and self-reflection.
All three terms describe someone who has embraced Islam, though they carry slightly different meanings. “New Muslim” focuses on where one is now, as someone beginning your journey in faith. “Convert” emphasises the change of belief system, reflecting that you’ve chosen Islam after following another or no faith. “Revert” is often used by Muslims who believe every person is born with an innate awareness of God (fitrah), so accepting Islam is seen as “returning” to that natural state. You can use whichever term you’re comfortable with or none at all. The community may use these words interchangeably. What matters most is your connection with Allah, not the label.
No, you don’t have to change your name when you become Muslim. Islam values your identity and heritage, and your name is part of who you are. A name change is only recommended if your existing name has an inappropriate meaning, meaning something that directly contradicts Islamic values (for example, a name that refers to a false god or something offensive). Many new Muslims keep their original names, while some people choose to adopt a Muslim name as a way to mark their spiritual journey or connect with Islamic tradition. It’s entirely optional. If you are conflicted about which path to take, you can confide in your local Imam or another Muslim who you trust.
Yes! Hillsborough Masjid has regular New Muslim programmes and and bi-monthly dinners dedicated to helping new Muslims learn, connect, and feel supported. In addition, having a mentor or friend who understands the journey can make a huge difference. They can help you learn to pray, answer questions, and offer encouragement when things feel overwhelming.
The Qur’an (Oxford World’s Classics)
Muhammad His LIfe Based on the Earliest Sources by Martin Lings
Becoming Muslim: A Practical Guide by Asad Tarsin
Project Lina: Bringing Our Whole Selves to Islam by Dr Tamara Gray and Najiyah Diana Maxfield
Roughly a third of children in our local community who engage in Islamic learning are enrolled with us
Through our ongoing efforts, we’ve helped the next generation commit an estimated 5,000 hours of Quran to heart
Get updates on events, fundraising, and community programmes and to be part of the journey.
