ISNA Canada Religious Director

Job Title: Religious Director
Location: ISNA Canada, Mississauga, ON

Job Summary: The Religious Director at ISNA Canada will ensure the delivery of Islamic services and programs that align with the organization's strategic vision. They will play a key role in fostering community engagement, promoting religious education, and supporting adherence to Islamic principles. Working closely with ISNA leadership, the Religious Director will drive the growth and implementation of Islamic programs that serve the diverse needs of the Muslim community in Canada.

Key Responsibilities:

Spiritual and Educational Leadership

• Provide religious instruction and guidance to community members, offering support through Jummah Khutbahs, Eid sermons, lectures, and educational programs. This would include facilitating classes, halaqas, and seminars for adults, youth, and families, ensuring engagement with all age groups.
• Oversee and guide the development of ISNA Canada’s Islamic religious curriculum that addresses the diverse needs of the community, including tailored courses, workshops, and educational materials.

Leadership & Outreach

• Lead congregational prayers, including special events such as Janazah prayers and marriage officiations, as required.
• Engage with interfaith groups and participate in dialogues that promote understanding and cooperation among different faith communities.
• Build strong connections with leaders from various Muslim organizations and religious institutions to further ISNA Canada’s mission of community building.
• Offer religious guidance and training for ISNA staff, Imams, and volunteers, as required.

Community Engagement and Guidance

• Provide oversight for the religious inquiries and consultations, addressing community questions and concerns.
• Advise ISNA Canada leadership, including the CEO and board, on religious, ethical, and moral matters impacting the organization and its programs.
• Provide individual and group counselling to community members on religious, personal, and social issues.
• Participate in local events and represent ISNA Canada in the wider community, fostering relationships with other organizations and institutions to strengthen community bonds.

Research and Scholarship

• Stay informed of current developments in Islamic jurisprudence, thought, and global Muslim affairs.
• Contribute scholarly articles, publications, and written works on relevant Islamic topics, helping guide both the community and staff in matters of contemporary relevance.
• Create religious content and programming to support operational needs as required
• Review scholarly content on religious direction/jurisprudence and publications from ISNA Canada to ensure they reflect both Islamic scholarship and modern-day realities.

Administration

• Support fundraising campaigns by promoting the importance of financial contributions to the community and actively participating in campaigns and donor outreach.
• Support in preparation of reports on religious programs, community engagement, and educational initiatives for internal use and board presentations.
• Assist in the development of religious programming budgets, ensuring alignment with ISNA Canada’s financial planning and goals.
• Collaborate with the management team to develop and implement strategic initiatives that support religious programs and activities.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree (or comparable degree, scholarly certification to teach) in Islamic studies or related fields is required. Advanced degrees preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years experience as an Islamic leader serving a diverse community in North America.
• Comprehensive understanding of Islam (theology, jurisprudence, Quranic exegesis and prophetic tradition), with Quran Ijazah.
• Understanding of how to apply usul al-fiqh, theology and jurisprudence to complex issues in modern society.
• Proven experience in religious education or teaching.
• Strong knowledge of Islamic teachings, principles, and values.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in English and Arabic, both written and spoken.
• Proven experience working effectively with a diverse community.
• Experience in a leadership role, preferably within a chaplaincy or religious organization.
• Conflict Resolution: Expertise in conflict prevention, crisis management, and consensus-building.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s or Ph.D. in Islamic Studies or a related field, or ijazahs from accredited Islamic scholars.
• Experience working within Canadian Muslim institutions.
• Formal training or experience in public/media relations
• Certification or formal training in counselling or pastoral care.
• Understanding of world religions and experience in interfaith dialogue.
• Proficiency in using digital platforms for outreach, education, and community engagement.

To apply for this position online, click here