Islamic Cultural Center of Northern California: A Beacon of Faith, Culture, and Community in Oakland

In the heart of Oakland, California, stands a unique landmark that blends history, faith, and culture—the Islamic Cultural Center of Northern California (ICCNC). Once a grand Masonic cathedral built in 1908, this historic structure was transformed in 1995 into one of the Bay Area’s most vibrant Islamic institutions.

Today, ICCNC serves not only as a mosque but also as a cultural hub where art, education, and spirituality intersect. It is a place where Muslims and non-Muslims alike come together to celebrate heritage, explore Islamic art and calligraphy, and engage in meaningful interfaith dialogue.

1. Historic Architecture & Origins

The Islamic Cultural Center of Northern California, located at 1443 Madison Street in Oakland, resides in what was once the Scottish Rite Cathedral. Built between 1908 and 1909 in the flowing Mission Revival style by O’Brien & Werner, this grand building originally served the Freemasons. In 1995, ICCNC acquired and adapted the structure for Islamic use—preserving iconic features such as stained glass, the majestic pipe organ, and ornate woodwork—while transforming it into a mosque, cultural center, and community space.

Inside, visitors find a library, a large banquet hall (formerly the cathedral’s basement area), and a main auditorium restored for regular community and religious functions.

2. Mission, Vision & Inclusive Values

ICCNC is an independent, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization founded in 1995. Its mission is to “celebrate Islam through art, culture, and education,” and its vision focuses on fostering a more compassionate and just society while amplifying diverse Islamic voices in a modern context.

The center follows the Ja’fari (Shia) school of thought, yet serves and welcomes Muslims of all schools and members of other faiths. It emphasizes broad-minded inclusion, social responsibility, and spiritual conscientiousness.

3. Programs & Activities: Art, Culture, Education, and Beyond

ICCNC goes beyond conventional mosque functions. It regularly hosts the “Living Cultures” series, featuring:

• Art exhibitions (e.g., Islamic calligraphy dialogue with Christian and Chinese traditions);

• Music, calligraphy, theater, and Farsi language classes;

• Workshops with renowned artists, such as Haji Noor Deen, who fuses Arabic and Chinese calligraphic styles.

Meanwhile, the center offers Friday Prayers, holiday festivities, and social services such as food pantries and funeral or marriage assistance—creating a multifaceted spiritual and communal institution.

A mosque leader described the center as Oakland’s “sushi mosque,” intentionally built as a space for unity where Sunni and Shia—and often interfaith participants—come together through creative expression and dialogue.

4. Community Engagement & Interfaith Bridges

ICCNC stands out as one of the few Islamic institutions in Oakland actively engaged in interfaith collaboration. It has partnered with churches, synagogues, universities, and other organizations to broaden understanding of Islam and nurture civic harmony.

It also has strong outreach into the Persian-speaking community, while maintaining open access to people of all backgrounds.

5. Facilities & Visitor Experience

Visitors consistently praise ICCNC for its architectural beauty, spacious interior, and welcoming atmosphere. The center accommodates up to 500 worshipers in its prayer hall, which features a unified space where women can pray alongside men without a physical barrier.

Amenities include wheelchair access, vibrant community events, library, café, and a banquet hall capable of hosting large communal meals and cultural programs.

Summary Table: Key Highlights