PARIS — Visitors attending the 100th anniversary prayers on Friday included people from regions around Paris, those born in France, and those who arrived from Algeria and Senegal. Chems-eddine Hafiz, the rector of the Grand Mosque of Paris, addressed the congregation and the broader public on the significance of the centennial.

"It’s the responsibility of everyone to see Muslims as a part of the national community," Hafiz said. He added that the institution's founding message retains its relevance a century later.

"When it was built, French President Gaston Doumergue made a declaration reminding us that France’s diversity could only reinforce its national community," Hafiz said. "I believe the political will and the political message have remained unchanged since 1926."

Hafiz also addressed contemporary challenges facing Muslims in France, where Islam is the second largest religion. He noted that hostility toward Muslims and the religion of Islam persists in modern society.

"Today, anti-Muslim acts are still being committed against Muslims. Islam is often misunderstood, and talking about Muslims or Islam can trigger hostility," Hafiz said.

Volunteers and visitors at the mosque expressed their own views on the anniversary and the institution's role in the community. Fatma Chouchane, a volunteer at the Grand Mosque, spoke about the importance of the site and the people who gather there.

"It’s a symbol, it is the Paris museum for Muslims. We must all be in solidarity," Chouchane said. She also directed a message to the nation regarding the mosque's congregants. "I ask France to leave these people alone and let them make their religious choices," Chouchane said.

Ibrahima Seye, who attended the events, said the mosque serves both local worshippers and international visitors. "It’s always open. It’s good for the Muslim community, and I see that it’s a mosque that is appreciated by a lot of tourists, too," Seye said.

The Grand Mosque of Paris has a 33-meter (108-foot)-high minaret that overlooks the Seine River. The architecture was inspired by the Alhambra in Granada, Spain, and the complex houses a tea room and hammam steam baths. The Paris City Hall’s official tourism website lists the Grand Mosque of Paris as a top attraction.

The founding of the Grand Mosque of Paris 100 years ago recognized the contributions of Muslim soldiers from French colonies who fought in World War I, establishing the institution as a permanent part of the French national fabric. The centennial celebrations bring together worshippers from France, Algeria, Senegal, and regions around Paris, reflecting the diverse communities connected to the mosque.