By Funeral Support Services at East Plano Islamic Center (EPIC)
East Plano Islamic Center (EPIC) offers Janazah support services as a not-for-profit
religious accommodation to members of the DFW Muslim community. These services are
designed to ensure the fulfillment of Islamic funeral rites under the religious supervision of EPIC’s
leadership, while complying with all applicable Texas laws governing the handling of human
remains.
Consistent with the Texas Funeral Service Commission’s (TFSC) July 16, 2025 letter,
EPIC does not engage in funeral directing or body preparation for compensation and does not
operate as a licensed funeral establishment under Tex. Occ. Code §§ 651.001(7), 651.251, or
651.351. Rather, EPIC assists its congregants in the exercise of religious obligations associated
with death, including:
- Collaborating with a licensed funeral establishment in arranging for the transportation of
the deceased; - Facilitating the performance of Ghusl (Islamic body washing) and kafan (shrouding),
without compensation and in accordance with Texas law. - Offering private viewings at the masjid for the family and community.
- Hosting the Salat-ul-Janazah (funeral prayer) at the masjid.
- Assisting families in coordinating burial arrangements at local cemeteries.
- Providing religious counseling and guidance by EPIC’s religious leadership.
- Notifying the community of funeral prayers and Janazah arrangements.
- Hosting Azza (condolence gatherings) and collective Dua (supplications) after prayers.
The TFSC has confirmed that religious organizations may continue to (1) communicate
funeral-related information to their congregants, (2) assist families in identifying licensed funeral
providers, (3) perform the funeral prayer, and (4) help collect death certificates, provided such
assistance is not compensated and complies with Texas law. Additionally, EPIC may help arrange
for body transportation and facilitate body washing and shrouding, so long as such practices are
conducted without compensation and in a manner that complies with Chapter 651 of the Texas
Occupations Code.
EPIC’s Janazah support services exist solely to facilitate religious rites within the bounds
of Texas law. The Center collaborates with licensed professionals where required and remains
committed to maintaining full compliance with the law while upholding its religious obligations.
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