Sheikh’s Corner

A space for guidance, learning, and connection

Sheikh’s Corner is a dedicated space designed to strengthen the relationship between the community and its religious leadership. Here, you can learn directly from Sheikh Tarik Ata, ask questions, seek guidance, and stay connected to his teachings, office hours, and programs.

Whether you are navigating a personal concern, seeking Islamic guidance, or simply looking to grow spiritually, Sheikh’s Corner is here to make access easier and more meaningful.

Get in Touch with Sheikh Tarik Ata
Sheikh Tarik Ata serves as the Religious Director of the Orange County Islamic Foundation and is committed to being accessible to the community.

Have an Islamic question or need guidance?
If you are looking for a fatwa or have a religious question, you may submit your inquiry directly to:Tarik.Ata@ocif.org
Please note that while Sheikh Tarik strives to respond thoughtfully and promptly, some questions may require time, follow-up, or referral.

Appointment Guidelines
To best serve the community and ensure clarity, please review the following before booking an appointment:

Appointments Are For:

  • Religious questions
  • Requests for fatwas
  • Personal guidance related to Islamic practice and religious matters

Please Note:

Divorces initiated by a wife (khulʿ cases) are not processed through Shaykh Tarik.
For such matters, please contact the appropriate Islamic legal body or recognized council that handles these cases formally.
Book a Phone Meeting
For more personal or complex matters, you may request a scheduled phone meeting with Sheikh Tarik:
https://tinyurl.com/y9uyra8w

Shaykh Tarik is not a licensed counselor or therapist.
As such, he does not provide marriage counseling, therapy, or clinical mental health services. If you are seeking professional counseling, we encourage you to consult a licensed therapist or qualified marriage counselor.

Request an In-Person Meeting
If you feel your situation requires an in-person meeting, you may:

  • Book a phone meeting first and request an in-person follow-up, or
  • Email Sheikh Tarik directly with a brief explanation of your situation and a request to meet: Tarik.Ata@ocif.org

Office Hours
Sheikh Tarik maintains designated office hours for community members. Availability may vary based on programming and community needs. Regular Office hours are:

  • Tuesdays: 1:30 – 4:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 1:30 – 4:00 PM
  • Thursdays: 1:30 – 4:00 PM
  • Fridays: 2:30 – 4:00 PM

We understand that these hours might not fit your schedule. If you’d like to arrange an appointment outside of office hours, please email Sheikh Tarik to coordinate a suitable time. Tarik.Ata@ocif.org

Join the Q&A WhatsApp Group
Join Sheikh Tarik’s Q&A WhatsApp group for brief reminders, reflections, and responses to commonly asked questions shared with the wider community.

Learn with Sheikh Tarik
Learning is at the heart of Sheikh’s Corner. Sheikh Tarik offers consistent opportunities to engage with the Qur’an and Islamic teachings in ways that are relevant, reflective, and practical.

Weekly Programs

  • Qur’an Study Circle
    Wednesday Evenings (Time vary depending on Maghrib and Isha prayer times)
    A reflective, discussion-based exploration of the Qur’an, focusing on meaning, application, and spiritual growth.
  • Khatiras
    Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays after ‘Isha
    Short reflections offering practical insights for daily life.

Lectures & Media

Access Sheikh Tarik’s lectures, reminders, and talks through OCIF’s social media platforms and audio content library. Topics range from faith and character to family life, mental health, and navigating contemporary challenges.

Connect Beyond the Masjid

Coffee with the Sheikh
An informal setting to connect, ask questions, and have meaningful conversations in a relaxed environment. Dates and locations are announced periodically.

Sheikh’s Corner exists to remind our community that guidance is not distant, learning is ongoing, and access to religious leadership should feel welcoming, respectful, and human.