2nd Imam Parts Ways With Planned Mosque

A Muslim scholar recently named as the new senior imam at the Islamic Center being built near the World Trade Center has parted ways with the project.
       
Shaykh Abdallah Adhami said Friday in a joint statement with the center's developer that he will no longer serve as a religious advisor to the center.
       
Adhami says he wants to devote his time to completing a new book on the Quran.
       
The 44-year-old had been announced as the new imam at the center just weeks ago, on Jan. 14, after the departure of project co-founder Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf.
       
His appointment was followed by news reports questioning his views on homosexuality.
       
Islamic center developer Sharif El-Gamal said he still hoped Adhami would lead prayers at the facility from time to time.