| Answer:  Since the mosque is generally a community centre 
as well, where people come to know of one another, it has become a tradition in 
some parts of the world to formally declare faith in the mosque. However, going 
to the mosque for such declaration is not a requisite of Islam.  
Changing your name is also not required if the meaning of 
the name is not against your basic beliefs. Though this may be a cultural need 
at times, it certainly is no religious need.  |