Those present included several families who have lost loved ones in the disaster.

"We know of at least five families here in Hawai'i who have been directly affected by having lost relatives," said Hakim Ouansafi, association president. "From what I understand, one family lost five or six family members."

Ouansafi said the state's Muslim population of around 3,000 has been deeply touched by the tsunami's aftermath. He said Muslims feel the need to reach out to people of all faiths, races and nationalities who have been affected.

whoover@honoluluadvertiser.comHe said all contributions collected by the association for the relief effort will be turned over to an agency approved by the U.S. government, and that the monies will not be earmarked for any faith, race or nationality in particular.

In addition, for the next 30 days Ouansafi said all donations earmarked for the mosque will go to the relief effort as well.

He said several agencies, such as Life USA, are being considered, but that the association has not made a decision.

Muslim religious leader Ismail Elshiek spoke to the gathering about Quran teachings on mercy and the responsibility of helping neighbors in need. He said those who show mercy to people in need on Earth will be rewarded by Allah when they are in heaven.

"Brothers and sisters, one of the conditions of belief is to take care of your neighbor," said Elshiek. "Human beings are one family — the family of Adam and Eve. It is written to show mercy at all times, but especially at a time of calamity."

Part of that mercy is to pray for the well being of all those who are suffering in South Asia. And he asked that people be generous in giving to the association's tsunami fund.

"I ask Muslims and all peoples in Hawai'i to donate one day's wage, or more, to help our brothers and sisters," he said.

Following the service, many did exactly that. As they departed they placed wads of bills in Ouansafi's kufi cap, which soon overflowed with $20 and $100 bills. Others, who did not have the cash, signed their names at the door and made pledges of $200, $500 and $1,000.

Ouansafi said the association's goal is to collect $250,000.

One person who believes the goal will be reached was Abdul Rashid Abdullah, whose wife, Norlidah, is from Malaysia. He said that although her family is safe, he and other Muslims have been focused on the welfare of those in South Asia who haven't been so fortunate.

"My wife, like many people from Malaysia, has roots in Indonesia," he said. "So, yeah, we're all worried about the people there. Very much so."