MANSFIELD -- The new home of the state's only full-time Muslim high school has been quickly embraced by its students.

Al-Noor Academy senior Reem Ablusami said that on the first day of classes Monday, `` I hugged the walls.''

`` I absolutely love it,'' the Stoughton resident said Tuesday during a break from a leadership class taught by Principal Robert Mond.

Al-Noor's classes on Monday moved into the former St. Mary's Church at 20 Church St. from rented quarters in the Islamic Center of New England in Quincy.

The move happened seven months behind schedule because of construction delays. An occupancy permit was issued on Thursday, Trustee Saeed Al-Bezreh said.