Hawzah News Agency (USA, Iowa)- Members of the Tri-State Islamic Center have started worshipping at Dubuque's first mosque, and officials hope the milestone will encourage greater understanding about the Muslim community.

The mosque opened at the beginning of December, but a grand opening celebration is scheduled for spring. Members are currently working on turning the center's unfinished basement into a meeting space and adding more parking. The center has more than 100 members who attend weekly services.

Center president Rami Eltibi said he hopes the mosque will also serve as a place to provide religious education to the public about Islam. He said the site will focus on fostering more conversations and understanding among people with differing beliefs.

"I always tell people, 'If you ever have any questions or concerns, come talk to us,'" said Eltibi, a Dubuque cardiologist. "It's a religion of peace ... and when we greet someone we say 'peace be upon you.' That's the work I want to spread and tell people about our religion."

Imam Adib Kassas said the Dubuque community has been supportive of the Islamic Center, thanks in part to groups like Children of Abraham. The Dubuque organization promotes interfaith dialogue between Christianity, Judaism and Islam.

Dubuque Police Department spokesman Lt. Scott Baxter said he and the police chief did a walk-through of the center for a security assessment as a proactive measure given the current national climate. Baxter said he is unaware of any complaints or threats toward the center or its members since the mosque was announced.