The boys and girls in the eighth grade had been studying the topic of Islam since the summer vacations. The excursion to the mosque rounded off the series of lessons. The almost four kilometers to Burgstraße in Gronau were quickly covered by bike, and the class was already standing in front of a building that did not look like a place of worship at first glance. Three members of the Islamic community warmly welcomed the group at the entrance and began by explaining that the building was originally a flower store that was converted into a mosque by members of the community themselves.
During the tour of the mosque, the students quickly noticed how different the design of an Islamic place of worship is compared to a Christian church. Instead of high ceilings, colorful windows and permanently installed benches, they were greeted by a wide, light-flooded room with a cozy prayer mat where the faithful gather to pray. Another difference: there were only a few seats at the edge of the room, and these were intended exclusively for elderly or sick members of the congregation. Most worshippers prayed standing, sitting or bowing directly on the carpet - a physically active form of worship that was new to many young people. The spatial separation between men and women during prayer was also discussed. The class learned that women pray in a separate area to allow for peace and concentration. This arrangement was met with interest and prompted discussions about different religious traditions and their significance in everyday life.
Despite the differences in architecture and procedures, the pupils also discovered many similarities between Islam and Christianity. Both religions worship the one God and attach great importance to worship and prayer as central components of religious life. Both the Bible and the Koran are regarded as holy scriptures that provide guidance and comfort. Respect for creation, love of one's neighbor and the pursuit of a morally responsible life also unite the two religions. The young people were particularly impressed by how strongly ethical values such as compassion, justice and humanity take center stage - regardless of religious differences.