On March 17, Greater New York Conference (GNYC) Youth Ministries celebrated Recognition Day at the North Bronx church. The event highlighted outstanding community members, and on this occasion, Imam Musa Kabba, a leader in the Bronx Islamic community, received recognition for his remarkable contributions.
More than two years earlier, on a freezing morning of January 9, 2022, tragedy struck Twin Parks North West, a public housing complex in the Fordham Heights neighborhood of the Central Bronx. According to the New York Times, a fire ignited by a malfunctioning space heater in a third-floor apartment quickly spread smoke throughout the building’s 19 floors. Despite efforts to contain the fire, the medical examiner’s office reported that the smoke generated by the fire is what claimed the lives of 17 individuals, including eight children.
Located a few blocks away in the heart of the Bronx, Masjid-Ar-Rahmah, Imam Musa Kabba’s mosque, opened its doors to provide shelter, solace, and support to those displaced by the fire. Some came to pray as they sought comfort, others came to obtain food, and some came for a place to sleep.
Recognition Day serves as a platform to glorify the name of Jesus. It also spotlights individuals and organizations whose acts of service and dedication have made a profound impact.
In a sincere gesture of brotherhood and gratitude for his selfless service, the Greater New York Conference Youth Ministries leaders were joined by Alanzo Smith, GNYC president, to present Imam Musa Kabba with the Community Service in Crisis Award of the Year. This accolade acknowledges Imam Kabba’s exemplary dedication to aiding the affected community members in the aftermath of the January 9 tragedy, exemplifying how genuine love unites people in times of crisis.
Kabba responded with humility and gratitude and expressed his appreciation, sharing heartfelt words of encouragement and goodwill. “I never imagined such recognition toward me,” he remarked. “I cannot wait to go and tell my family how special you have made me feel. Remember to love each other, always do good to all people as much as you can, and love your families. I ask God to give His blessing, health, and protection to each of you. Many thanks.”
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Enmanuel Contreras, Youth Ministries director, Greater New York Conference
