Friday, Nov 22Â |Â 3:30pm ET
The heartbreaking reality of spiritual and sexual abuse is something no parent should ever have to confront. Yet recent events have made it clear: protecting our children requires both parental vigilance and a commitment to safer community spaces. How can you ensure your child is protected in environments you trust—like mosques, schools, and other Islamic institutions?
This Friday, join Dr. Ingrid Mattson as she offers vital guidance for parents on safeguarding their children. She will address the key questions you should ask community leaders and how to play an active role in fostering safer, healthier spaces for your family. A Muslim mental health professional will also join to share practical tips on how to empower your child with protective knowledge and support their emotional resilience.
You’ll learn how to build trust at home, identify potential risks, and work with your community to create environments where children can flourish, insha’Allah. This is an essential session for parents striving to protect their children and ensure their well-being.
Dr. Ingrid Mattson
Dr. Ingrid Mattson is the London and Windsor Community Chair in Islamic Studies at Huron University College at Western University in London, Canada. Previously, Dr. Mattson founded and directed the Islamic Chaplaincy Program at Hartford Seminary and she is past president of ISNA. Her research focuses on Qur'anic Studies, theological ethics and interfaith engagement.
Dr. Mattson founded and directs The Hurma Project, a major research project committed to upholding the sacred inviolability (hurma) of each person who is present in Muslim spaces by elucidating the special responsibilities of those holding power and authority and by educating those who are vulnerable about their God-given dignity and rights.
What is Friday Gems?
Friday Gems is CelebrateMercy’s weekly live online program, which aims to further our mission to help people discover the truth about Muhammad ﷺ, and transform their lives through his beautiful example and teachings.
For the average busy Muslim adult, it’s a great way to maintain a consistent connection with the most beloved ﷺ of God, on the most blessed day of the week.
Part 1 (30 min) of the session is a fulfillment of the tradition of the Prophet ﷺ to engage meaningfully with the 18th chapter of the Quran, The Cave (al-Kahf), every Friday. This practice holds various virtues. English translation is shown on the screen with the Arabic verses so that it’s a meaningful experience for the audience.
Part 2 (30 min) is an inspiring and practical reminder delivered by one of our esteemed teachers on a certain aspect of the Prophet’s ﷺ life, character and teachings. This is coupled with references to relevant passages in the Quran. The topic is presented in a manner that’s applicable to one’s own life, today’s world and current events.
Part 3 (20 min) is a heartfelt discussion and Q&A between the teacher and the audience. It’s a great opportunity to foster community and support one another, no matter where a person is in their journey. Emulating the Prophetic example, prayers and encouragement are exchanged, leading to a heart softening and spiritually uplifting experience.