2nd imam is out at Islamic center near WTC site

NEW YORK-- 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 adviser to the center.

Adhami says he wants to devote his time to completing a book on the Quran.

The 44-year-old had been announced as the imam at the center last month 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 says he still hoped Adhami would lead prayers at the facility from time to time.