Inter Faith Relations
Catering and
Faith Based Dietary Practice
Following discussion at the Faith Communities Forum and at the
Executive Committee of the Inter Faith Network for the UK about
halal and non-halal provision in catering contexts, a multi faith
Working Group including Dr Joy Barrow, Inter Faith Relations
Officer of the Methodist Church, was tasked with developing
guidance on faith and dietary practice. A pdf can be found online
here.
The guidance note has four sections:
a) 'Some key principles' concerning faith based dietary practice -
which explains both the importance and provenance of the
document.
b) Part 1 'Some general points on catering for a religiously
diverse clientele' - which offers points for those catering for or
managing the catering of people of different faiths and sets out
good practice points on provision and procurement.
c) Part 2 'Some more detailed points about particular issues' -
which goes into more depth about some of the more complex aspects
of the dietary practices of different religions including the
separate storage and preparation of different types of food and the
changes that can occur in faith based diet during religious
festivals.
d) A chart which contains information on faith based dietary
practices - which is intended to give caterers a reasonably
comprehensive idea of what certain groups are, or are not, likely
to consume but is not intended to be an exhaustive list of the
dietary requirements of different faiths.
For further information, contact Augustine Booth-Clibborn at augustine.booth-clibborn@interfaith.org.uk
Acknowledgement: Inter Faith Network for the UK; website: www.interfaith.org.uk
Rabbi Ephraim
Mirvis appointed 11th Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew
Congregations of the UK and the Commonwealth
Rabbi Mirvis
to succeed Chief Rabbi Lord Sacks in September 2013
The Chief Rabbinate Trust has today confirmed
the appointment of Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis, as the 11th Chief Rabbi of
the United Hebrew Congregations of the UK and the Commonwealth. He
will assume office when Chief Rabbi Lord Sacks steps down in
September 2013. The recommendation to appoint Rabbi Mirvis was
unanimously endorsed on Monday evening following an exhaustive
eight month selection process.
For more information about the Office of the
Chief Rabbi, please visit www.chiefrabbi.org
For more information about the United Synagogue,
please visit www.theus.org.uk
New resource on Inter Faith from the Baptist Union
During National Inter Faith Week the Baptist Union launched a
set of discussion cards: '12 Myths of Inter Faith Engagement:
Empowering Christians in a multi-faith world'.
These cards make a helpful contribution to resources available
for small group discussions and conversations by Methodists, other
Christians or inter faith relations groups.
For further information contact: info@baptist.org.uk or www.baptist.org.uk/interfaith.
Revd Mark Rowland speaks at Lambeth Palace event
To mark the 5th anniversary of the Faith in Leadership Programme
[www.faithinleadership.org],
a gala dinner was held at Lambeth Palace in the presence of, among
others, the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Secretary of State at
the Department of Communities and Local Government. Among the
speakers at the event was Revd Mark Rowland; to read his speech
click
here.
Also present at the gala dinner were Inter Faith Relations
Officer Dr Joy Barrow, and Hattie Hodgson. To read Hattie's
reflection on her experience of the first FiL residential weekend
see below.
Methodist young people participate in Faith in Leadership
Programme:
The Faith in Leadership Programme [www.faithinleadership.org]
exists to identify emerging leaders within Britain's different
religious communities and offer them opportunities to complement
their spiritual growth with effective leadership skills. By doing
this it seeks to encourage a new generation of faith leaders to
recognise the best in themselves and one another and inspire
understanding and cooperation. For the first time, the Inter
Faith Relations Office was offered two places for Methodist young
people on the 2012/13 Programme. Consequently the Revd Mark
Rowland and Hattie Hodgson were accepted onto the Programme.
Reflecting on her experience of the first residential weekend
Hattie writes:
The Faith in Leadership training programme is split over three
modules. I attended the first module, a three day residential at
Liverpool Hope University, from the 9th-11th
July 2012.
The experiential learning environment generated during the Faith
in Leadership programme provided a distinctive learning space in
which I was able to consider what makes an effective leader and,
consequently, how I need to develop to achieve this. Through
experiential learning activities and the evaluation of recorded
footage of our interaction in group sessions,the module provided
space for self-reflection and evaluation. This self-reflective
approach provided insights which I can utilise and develop within
my every-day leadership activities, meaning that the learning
proffered by the course did not stop when the residential
ended.
One of the most valuable and memorable elements of the course
was simply being introduced to my fellow participants. It was
impressed upon us that the founders and organisers do not consider
the course an 'inter faith' programme, more a leadership training
programme designed for individuals of faith. This shifted focus
created an inter faith experience unlike any I have come across
before; one where the spotlight was not explicitly on our differing
faiths, but rather on the improvement of skills which we all deemed
important. The provision of a space in which we could discuss
commonalities aside from our faith, created a space in which we
could share experiences, inspiring each other and growing together;
a space which proved to be most abundant.
Thus far, the Faith in Leadership programme has provided me with
time and space to self-reflect equipped with the knowledge with
which to best do so, and provided the opportunity to make
connections with like-minded individuals from a host of faith
backgrounds. For a recent graduate like myself, these results have
already proved themselves incredibly valuable as I move into the
working world. As such, I would like to extend a great deal of
thanks to the Inter Faith Relations Office of the Methodist Church
for facilitating my participation on this learning programme.
Julian Bond reflects on inter faith relations
The Director of the Christian Muslim Forum, Julian Bond, who is
a member of the Methodist Church, reflects on inter faith
dialogue in an article that is featured in the interfaith magazine
'Faith Initiative: Embracing Diversity' issue 27.
Please see website www.faithinitiative.co.uk
for further information on the magazine or contact the Editor:
Heather Wells hf_wells@yahoo.co.uk.
Further information about the Christian Muslim Forum
may be found at www.christianmuslimforum.org.
To read a copy of Julian's article, click here.
Statement from the Hindu Christian Forum
As Hindus and Christians we repudiate the recent statement by
'Christian Voice' about the Hindu festival of Diwali. It is
misinformation and gross distortion of the Hindu faith and the
festival of Diwali which has no place in any school or institution.
Such an attack on Hindu beliefs and practices has no place in our
faith communities either. It runs contrary to the meaning, spirit
and ethos of Diwali as understood through the Hindu scriptures. It
is also contrary to the efforts of the Hindu Christian Forum and
similar groups that are seeking to build healthy relationships and
understanding between Hindus and Christians. We have so much in
common that unites us in mutual respect and love, as well as
significant differences that we acknowledge. These are explored in
our recent report 'Barriers and Bridges to Hindu-Christian
Relations'. [Scroll down this page for a pdf copy of the
report].
We believe it is important for children (and all of us) to learn
about their own and others' faiths in a respectful way. We
acknowledge the right of each person to form their own judgements
and also for parents to exercise their responsibilities in guiding
their children and engaging with teachers and the curriculum. This
does not include hostile or demeaning statements but rather to give
the children a right understanding of different faiths.
Diwali has deep festive and symbolic significance for the Hindus
and is the celebration of light representing knowledge, love and
selfless service in the family and extending to the community. We
hope that this is the message which will be heard and understood by
all concerned.
Dr Joy Barrow, Inter Faith Relations Officer
Cambridge Co-exist Leadership Programme
The Revd David Musgrave writes of his participation in the
Co-exist Leadership Programme. He and the Revd Stephen Wigley
are both participating in the Programme, the first time members of
the Methodist Church have done so.
David writes:
Of all the forms of inter faith engagement that have been
developed over recent years, one of the most exciting ones is the
Cambridge Co-exist Leadership Programme, bringing together people
in positions of practical leadership from the three Abrahamic
faiths, rather than academic specialists. I am deeply
privileged to have been invited to take part in the inaugural
programme in 2012-13, and to have attended the first of three
modules in early September.
The central premise of the Programme is to have participants
delving into the wisdom of their own faith traditions, particularly
what they have to say about leadership, and sharing insights with
those of very different traditions, in an informal and confidential
atmosphere which allows honest and sometimes vulnerable
exposure. We are not interested in finding lowest common
denominators but rather aim to recognise where there are
substantive differences and explore how our communities can indeed
'co-exist' in respect and harmony.
The first 48-hour session, in the prestigious but in some ways
alienating surroundings of Trinity College Cambridge, enabled new
friendships to be made as we began the process of learning together
with a particular emphasis on 'scriptural reasoning'. What
was often fascinating was the commonality of the issues facing us
as faith leaders: both from a secular society which sometimes
didn't seem to want to know us, and from some within our
communities who were suspicious of any watering down of our own
faith implied in dialogue with other faiths. In sharing
concerns around these issues, I for one felt strengthened in my own
commitment to seeking practical ways of working alongside those of
other traditions.
The Revd David Musgrave, Coventry and Nuneaton Circuit.
Statement by the Board of Deputies of British Jews on the
attack against Latrun Monastery in Israel
The Board of Deputies of British Jews echoes the condemnation by
the Israeli government of the recent 'price-tag' attack on the
historic Monastery at Latrun.
The Board works actively towards strengthening links between the
Arab, both Christian and Muslim, and Jewish communities in Israel
through its participation in the UK Task Force on Issues Relating
to Arab Citizens of Israel. The Board also works hard in this
country to promote understanding between different faith groups.
These attacks are completely antithetical to the values of the
Board and more importantly to those of Judaism and of the
Jewish people throughout the ages.
Inter faith response to Oak Creek Sikh Temple shootings
The Inter Faith Network for the UK [www.interfaith.org.uk], of which
the Methodist Church is a member, has issued the following
statement:
The shooting at the Sikh Temple in Oak Creek Wisconsin on 5
August that left six worshippers dead has prompted inter faith
response across the US, including vigils to remember the victims of
the massacre and to urge greater religious tolerance, and call for
gun control.
In the UK a number of faith communities and leaders have
released statements of support and condolence to the Sikh community
in Oak Creek and globally.
The atrocity appears to have, like the actions in Norway last
summer of Anders Behring Breivik, links with ultra extremist views
as well as profound misunderstanding of the beliefs and practices
of a community.
The Inter Faith Network for the UK works to promote inter faith
understanding and cooperation. While IFN's work focuses on the UK
and formal statements are rarely issued on overseas events,
the Co-Chairs and Vice-Chairs of IFN have expressed in a Circular
to member bodies their concern about the underlying issues of
extremism and prejudice which, sadly, cross all national boundaries
and their sympathy to the Sikh community. The incident, like
the murders in Toulouse last year - and others in different
countries - are, together with examples from time to time of
prejudice, hatred and even violence in our own country, a reminder
of the need to work tirelessly for greater understanding about and
between different faiths.
Inter Faith Relations fringe event at the 2012 Conference
On the Monday evening of Conference over forty five people
attended the Inter Faith Relations fringe event 'Exploring Hinduism
over three generations' at the nearby Plymouth Athenaeum, organised
by the IFR Connexional office in co-operation with the Plymouth
Centre of Faiths and Cultural Diversity.
The evening began with a delicious Indian vegetarian buffet
prepared by our host family for the evening. We then gathered
in the lounge to begin the programme.
The Meswania family, spanning three generations, is the sole
survivor of forty Gujarati families who came to Plymouth as
refugees, but with British passports, having been evicted from
Uganda by under the policy of President Idi Amin
Vallabhdas Meswania was the main speaker and he
described the family's background and arrival in the UK.
Originally from a traditional Hindu, priest like family, the
extended family has been living in Plymouth for nearly forty
years. The grandparents now in their eighties maintain the
traditional way of life. Their sons and daughters have
largely been educated in this country and so, in a sense, have a
foot in both traditional Hindu culture and Western culture.
Perhaps they enjoy the best of both worlds? Their children,
five or six were present, have been born and educated in Plymouth
schools.
After welcoming people to the fringe event, and
introducing the Meswania family, those present participated in a
traditional Indian dance. The extended Meswania family of
twelve then performed traditional Hindu bhajans, culminating in an
arti ceremony. This provided a spiritual feast of sound,
colour and incense! A brief explanation provided a glimpse of Hindu
life in Plymouth, with all its opportunities and
challenges.
In the final part of the evening we explored, especially with
the younger members of the Meswania family, their sense of identity
and belonging as British Hindus. A key theme of the evening
was the different ways in which faith and practice change over
generations. This is common to many religions and it is
difficult to predict how this will develop in the years to
come. Grandfather Meswania's way of being a Hindu is very
different to the way his children have found, and in turn their
children are now exploring how they will respond to this challenge.
With acknowledgement to Jonathan Marshall, Director of the
Plymouth Centre of Faiths and Cultural Diversity who did so much
towards the success of the evening. Photographs: Revd David
Tatem.
Methodist Conference statement and motions supporting
Inter Faith Relations
In 1999 The Conference adopted the statement: 'Called to Love
and Praise' that stated: 'Christians of all traditions are at the
beginning of a long period of growing dialogue with people of other
faiths. To refuse opportunities for such dialogue would be a denial
of both tolerance and Christian love… Christians may enter such
dialogues in the faith that God will give them deeper insight into
the truth of Christ.'
Read a
summary of the statement and motions supporting Inter Faith
Relations (pdf)
BBC's Heart and Soul with PROCMURA GENERAL ADVISER
The BBC World Service invited Rev. Dr. Johnson Mbillah, General
Adviser of the Programme for Christian-Muslim Relations in Africa
(PROCMURA), to its weekly programme Heart and Soul to deliberate on
Christian-Muslim relations in East Africa with a particular focus
on the situation in the Sudan and South Sudan. The discussions were
joined in by a renowned journalist Gill Lusk from Africa
Confidential and an expert on Sudan. To listen to the programmes,
which will remain on the BBC on line archive, go to www.bbc.co.uk
World Service programmes and the editions of 'Heart and Soul' on
18th and 25th March [not as on the PROCMURA attached
statement].
PROCMURA stated: 'We in PROCMURA are delighted that Dr. Mbillah
has been given the opportunity to speak on pertinent issues on
Sudan and the Republic of South Sudan and to respond to the many
critical questions that were raised. We are particularly pleased
that it would be possible for many people in the world who are
concerned about the situation of Christian-Muslim relations in the
two Sudans, and the economic and social development of the newest
state (South Sudan) to have the opportunity to listen to PROCMURA's
views on the situation as ably represented by the General
Adviser'.
To see a pictorial view of the interview and its announcement at
PROCMURA's website click
here.
CTBI statement on Jewish Christian relations
The Churches Inter-Religious Network is a Network of CTBI that
brings together the churches' representatives who
hold responsibility for relations with people of other faiths.
In June 2011 these representatives met together to discuss
Jewish-Christian relations. This was an
intra-Christian conversation which aimed:
• To take stock ecumenically of where the churches are in
their relationship to Judaism
• To reflect upon how progress on dialogue sustains or fails to
sustain relationships of trust
when difficulties arise and where issues of conscience mean that
the two faiths cannot agree
• To address crucial questions arising from the day
• To identify any future work that needs to be undertaken
To read the CTBI statement please click
here
Inter Faith Week in Scotland:
In what is believed to be a first for Britain, the Moderator of
the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland will share worship
with leaders of the Jewish and Muslim communities at a
mosque.
On Friday 25 November the Right Reverend David Arnott and Rabbi
David Rose of the Edinburgh Hebrew Congregation will join Muslims
at Annandale Mosque in Edinburgh for prayers. It is part of a
unique three-day programme in the capital of talks between the
three main Abrahamic traditions. The Right Reverend Arnott said:
"Interfaith dialogue is about showing respect for the traditions of
each other's faith. There is no better way to do that than by
sharing openly in worship together. This is how we say to the
community where we all live this is how we should live together,
with respect and understanding of what is important to each
other."
From Friday to Sunday representatives from the three traditions
will stand alongside each other during each of the different faith
services. Rabbi David Rose, who is also co-convener of the
Edinburgh Interfaith Association, said: "The mutual respect we show
to each other in visiting other faith's places of worship is a
clear signal that the various faiths in our city is committed to
living together in harmony and together contributing to the
wellbeing of the city."
Bashir Malik, a mosque representative, said: "The Jewish and
Christian faiths are deeply connected with Islam with all three
being a continuation of the Abrahamic faith. We must show respect
for each other from the core of our hearts, and these visits of
each other's place of worship is the best way to express our
respect and commitment to contributing to achieving peace and
harmony within our communities."
The programme starts at Annandale Mosque on Friday, then on
Saturday at the Edinburgh Hebrew Congregation's synagogue, ending
with a Church of Scotland service on Sunday at St Andrew's St
George's West.
Acknowledgement: The Church of Scotland
Inter Faith Week 2011: 21 November event
On Monday morning, 21 November, 50 senior religious figures,
including national leaders, met together in London (Central Hall
Westminster) to mark the first working day of Inter Faith Week.
Christine Elliott, Strategic Leader for External Relations and Joy
Barrow, Inter Faith Relations Office of the Methodist Church in
Britain attended the event. The meeting was organised by the Inter
Faith Network for the UK and was chaired by its Co-Chairs, Bishop
Alastair Redfern and Dr Manazir Ahsan.
The opening speakers were Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew
Congregations of the Commonwealth, Lord Sacks of Aldgate and the
Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams. Secretary of State for
Communities and Local Government, Rt Hon Eric Pickles added his
reflections from a Government perspective.
The discussion explored aspects of how faith communities
contribute to society; continue to develop strong patterns of inter
faith understanding and practical cooperation; and engage with
wider society for the common good.
Videos of the three opening presentations can be found on the
Inter Faith Week website www.interfaithweek.org They will shortly
be available also on YouTube.
There is further information about the Archbishop's presentation
at: http://www.lambethpalace.org/
With acknowledgement to the Inter Faith Network for the UK: www.interfaith.org.uk
National Inter Faith Week 20-26th November
The third National Inter Faith Week began on November 20th. To
celebrate this event there is a photographic display in the window
of Methodist Church House of some of the inter faith activities
that have taken place during the year.
If you are walking past Methodist Church House in Marylebone Road
do have a look at the display. If you would like some free
Methodist Church inter faith relations resources they are available
from the Help Desk at Methodist Church House. To see a copy of the
photographic display click here
For details of other special events taking place visit the
websites of Inter Faith Week www.interfaithweek.org
and the Inter Faith Network for the UK www.interfaith.org.uk
Maspero, Cairo incident on Sunday 9 October,
2011
A pdf download of a statement from Bishop
Angaelos following the Maspero, Cairo incident on Sunday 9
October, 2011 is available here.
Faith community responses to the recent
riots
The Inter Faith Network for the UK have compiled a survey of
Faith Community responses to the recent riots. A copy of the survey
is available on download from their website: www.interfaith.org.uk. The
response of faith members during the riots again exemplifies the
contribution that members of all religions make towards positive
relations in their local communities.
House of Lords debate on multiculturalism: interfaith
dialogue
There was a very interesting debate in the House of Lords on
multiculturalism: inter faith dialogue which can be accessed
at:
www.publications.parliament.uk. An alternative is to
write 'Hansard House of Lords' into your search engine and then go
to debates on September 8th. The text of the multiculturalism
debate is the tenth item under the 'House of Lords'.
Norway attacks
Following the recent events in Norway, Churches Together in
Britain and Ireland, of which the Methodist Church is a member, has
issued a statement unequivocally condemning the acts of violence
that took place. It states: 'CTBI would wish to categorically state
than none of our member churches would ever support or justify acts
of violence such as this. Furthermore none of our member churches
have used or endorsed hateful language towards Muslims (or any
other faith) such as used by the perpetrator of these acts -
indeed, a number of Churches have adopted strong and unequivocal
policies against those who join far right groups'.
In 2004 the Methodist Church issued a statement on political
extremism. This stated that 'the policies and practices of those
who promote racism and religious intolerance are incompatible with
the Methodist Church's social witness, biblical teaching and our
understanding of the love of God for all people'. It further stated
that the Methodist Church expects members: 'to practise and promote
racial justice and inclusion, and reject any political parties that
attempt to stir up racial and religious hatred and fear of asylum
seekers'.
Read the full text of the CTBI statement here
Read the full text of the 2004 Methodist statement, and
those of other churches, with respect to political extremism
here.
Inter Faith Network statement on the Norway
attacks
The Co-Chairs and Vice-Chairs of the Inter Faith Network for the
UK have issued a statement following the tragic loss of life in
Norway and the actions that led to this. To read the full statement
click
here.
Bridges and Barriers to Hindu-Christian
Relations
In 2009 the Hindu Christian Forum, of which Dr Joy Barrow Inter
Faith Relations Officer of the Methodist Church in Britain is a
member, received a grant to enable it to commission an academic
research project in the form of a 'listening exercise' attending to
the voices of Hindus and Christians in Preston, Leicester and
London. The lead researcher, Dr Jessica Frazier of the Oxford
Centre for Hindu Studies, was supported by both members of the
Hindu Christian Forum and an academic advisory board of
scholars.
It is anticipated that this Report will positively contribute to
Christian-Hindu dialogue, both in local communities
and nationally, and encourage further research.
Read the
report (Pdf)
Read the encouraging report about 'Sharing in the
Seder', recently hosted by the Southport Hebrew
Community and jointly sponsored by the Methodist Church, the Board
of Deputies and the Council of Christians and Jews.
The Co-Chairs of the Christian Muslim Forum have
released this statement:
We utterly condemn the recent attack on, and killing of,
innocent UN staff on 1 April by protestors in Afghanistan and
further attacks and deaths since then. We condemn unreservedly all
attacks on non-Muslims by those who claim to be acting on behalf of
Islam or with any Islamic justification.
We mourn the loss of all lives in Afghanistan and pray for their
families, friends and for those who have been injured. We plead for
recognition of the sacredness of human life, especially when there
are tensions and provocations.
The attacks in Afghanistan followed a protest against the recent
burning of the Qur'an in Florida. As religious leaders of both
faiths we deplore any desecration of our sacred texts. Such actions
are not in keeping with our religious values. We urge all religious
leaders and people of faith to show respect for each other's
scriptures. We ask fellow Christians and Muslims to join with us in
condemning acts of violence and provocation.
We commend the work of the Christian Muslim Forum, which seeks
to build strong, committed relationships and better understanding
between Christians and Muslims in England. We mention, in
particular, our Local Encounter Letter which makes a joint
commitment to better relations, encourages speaking 'generously of
other faiths, scriptures and worshippers' and showing 'solidarity
with each other at times of distress'.
Rt Revd Dr Richard Cheetham, Shaykh Ibrahim Mogra
A mosque in Sheffield is holding an interfaith meeting
to express disapproval for the inflammatory behaviour of the recent
"Judge the Qur'an Day" organised by Terry Jones where a copy of the
Qur'an was burnt. They have invited two local Methodist ministers
to attend and requested that they bring a statement which could be
used in a press release. The following is the statement that has
been produced:
As Christians, we place great value on our Holy Scriptures which
point us towards a God of love and compassion, who calls us to love
both God and our neighbour as we love ourselves. In our own
Methodist tradition, we emphasise that the grace of God is at work
in every human being. Christians are commanded to "do unto others
as we would have them do unto us"; we would be outraged if another
faith community ceremonially burnt the Bible and therefore we can
empathise with something of the deep offence caused to Muslims by
this act. According to press reports, only some thirty people were
present at the "trial" and burning of the Qur'an; we wish to state
categorically that this is not an action for which Christians in
general can be held accountable. In every community we have our
"extremists". We are aware that the nature of the Qur'an in Muslim
belief, as a literal revelation from God, means that Muslims will
feel the offence in the highest degree. We are also aware that in
our own European history, there have been times, to our shame, when
books of philosophy, science and theology have been publicly burnt,
which makes us even more acutely aware of the horror at this act.
Let us all resolve to consign the burning of other people's books
to the pages of history where it belongs. This is not the place for
theological debate about the content and status of the Qur'an; we
have to say simply and directly that we can find no Christian
ethical grounds for such an act and therefore, as Christians, we
deplore it. We abhor all inflammatory language and behaviour used
to attack another Godly religion or its members. The tragic events
in Afghanistan, where an attack on a UN base with the loss of more
than a dozen lives, which is reported as being a response to the
burning of the Qur'an, serves as a timely reminder to us that one
wrong act so frequently leads to another; we deplore both actions.
We are pleased to stand alongside sisters and brothers from the
local community in expressing our desire for building a just
society and strengthening mutual respect and understanding.
The Methodist Church in Britain supports this statement. (6
April 2011)
Methodist Church condemns burning of the Holy
Qur'an
The Methodist Church in Britain today joined the presiding
Bishop of its partner church, the Church of Pakistan, in strongly
condemning the action of a pastor in Florida who this week burned a
copy of the Holy Qur'an.
'This heinous act is condemned by the entire Church of
Pakistan,' said Bishop Azariah, who continued, 'We hope the
Government of USA will take an appropriate action against such
individuals who create disharmony and misunderstandings amongst
different religions.'
Christine Elliott, Secretary for External Relationship, said
'The Methodist Church in Britain has a deep respect for the Muslim
faith and seeks through its prayers and actions to work for peace
and understanding between our two religions. Burning books has no
place in either of our faiths.'
I agree with Bishop Humphrey Peters, Bishop of Peshawar, that
this is a 'shameful act'.
Bishop Peters was speaking at a press conference with other
members of 'Faith Friends' (The Pakistan Council of World
Religions) , Qari Ruhullah Madni (Chief Coordinator, Faith
Friends), Mr. Charan Jeet Singh (Sikh Community), Mr. Haroon
Sarabdial (Hindu Community) who also expressed their views and
anger over this shameful act.
Board of Deputies of British Jews Horrified at Attacks
on Christian Minorities
The Board of Deputies (www.bod.org.uk) has
expressed its horror at the terrible attack on a Coptic Christian
church in Alexandria on New Year's Day..... As the Coptic Christmas
approaches on 7 January, the Board sent Christmas greetings, and
shared its prayers that the community's celebrations "will allow
the Coptic faithful and faith to overcome the destructive evil that
has tarnished the beginning of 2011".
The Board of Deputies statement continues: "Just days later, the
Alexandria massacre was followed by the assassination of Salman
Taseer, a Pakistani Governor who had spoken out for the country's
Christian minority. These murders come less than two months after
the Board of Deputies expressed solidarity with Iraqi Christians
following a suicide attack on a church in Baghdad. The Board shares
the pain of all people of goodwill in the UK and around the World.
We particularly welcome the clear denunciation of terror by
significant Muslim religious and political leaders. We call on
governments, religious movements and civil society to ensure
adequate physical protection of their minority communities in the
short-term, and to promote education and dialogue to end all forms
of hatred."
MINAB condemns the suicide bombing on a Coptic Church in
Egypt
The Mosques and Imams National Advisory Board (MINAB) condemns
the suicide bombing that targeted a Coptic church in Alexandria on
New Year's Day. Such attacks are affront to all human and religious
values and aim to disrupt the harmony of our communities who have
lived together for hundreds of years.
The Chair of MINAB, Maulana Shahid Raza, OBE, has expressed his
deep concern and condemned the attacks. "Any such attack or threat
to a place of worship is abhorrent and is an attack on all of us"
he said. "We stand united in offering solidarity against the
targeting of Christian communities and other minority communities
in the Middle East which aims to destroy community relations and
inspire hate and discord".
The MINAB calls upon Mosques in the UK and the Middle East to re
emphasis the Quranic message of protecting places of worship and
challenge these extreme views and to pray for the innocent victims
of this barbaric act through their sermons, and any other
means.
We call upon all peace loving people to work together to root
out such forms of extremism and to build resilience to challenge
and disrupt all forms of extremism. Such extremists are evil
murderers, who incite hatred and are destroying our cohesion and
damaging the dignity of religion and faith.
Notes to Editors:
1. The Mosques and Imams National Advisory Board (MINAB) is the
representative body of all UK Muslim denominations set up to
promote good governance in Mosques and Imam Training Institutions
through a process of self regulation.
2. It has over six hundred mosques and training institutions as
its members.
3. It is a charity registered under the laws of England &
Wales.
4. It is a community led independent body, non sectarian in its
outlook, representing the diversity of Islam with no role in
matters of theology and is broad based with an accountable system
of representation.
Labelling of Halal meat: statement by the Christian
Muslim Forum
The Christian Muslim Forum is the national organisation bringing
together Christians and Muslims to build better relationships and
dialogue with each other, as well as with British society
generally.
We are therefore concerned about unease, as reported in the
media, over the presence of unlabelled 'halal' (i.e. 'Islamically
permitted') meat in our supermarkets, and other food outlets. This
affects all customers and consumers, those who wish to eat halal
meat as well those who not only do not, but also have objections to
doing so. There are also concerns about some public authorities
which provide only 'halal' products in schools and other
institutions, albeit with the best of intentions.
We value attempts in our society to make adequate space for
people of different religions, and no religion, and that their
values and religious needs are respected. Two values widely shared
in British society, openness and non-compulsion, are important to
both Christianity and Islam. However, the commercial sector and
some public authorities do not always take into account the
importance of these values in relation to religious and other
sensitivities. There are also concerns about animal welfare in
relation to slaughter, as religious people we believe that there
should be good treatment of animals up to and at the point of
slaughter.
To read the Christian Muslim Forum reflections and
recommendations to society in general, and specifically to food
outlets, catering organisations and public authorities click on
this hyperlink: www.christianmuslimforum.org
Board of Deputies of British Jews Expresses Solidarity
with Christians in the Middle East
The Board of Deputies of British Jews has joined representatives
of the Muslim and Christian communities in expressing their
solidarity with Iraqi Christians, following the sickening attack on
the Church of Our Lady of Salvation in Baghdad. Over fifty people
were killed in a bloodbath of extraordinary depravity, later
claimed by a terrorist group calling itself the 'Islamic State of
Iraq'.
The event, hosted by the Imam Al-Khoei Foundation in Brondesbury
and organised by the Christian Muslim Forum, brought together
Christian, Muslim and Jewish representatives, including Arab
Christian communities based in the UK. The assembled delegates
heard of the precarious situation of Christians across the Middle
East and South Asia, and about the broader phenomenon of terrorist
violence against other religious communities, particularly against
Muslim groups.
Board President, Vivian Wineman, said, "We commend the Imam
al-Khoei Foundation and the Christian Muslim Forum for organising
this crucial event, and we take pride in standing
shoulder-to-shoulder with our Muslim and Christian brothers and
sisters to condemn all terrorist atrocities. We remain concerned
about the broader plight of Christians in the Middle East and their
decline in numbers. We will work with others to ensure that their
rights and welfare are protected".
Celebration of Interfaith Week Nov 2010
To recognise the value of interfaith relations during the
National Interfaith Week, Faith to Faith Project at Touchstone
collaborated with Haworth Road Methodist Church to organise an
event on 27 November 2010 at the church hall.
Dr Joy Barrow, National Inter Faith Relations Officer for
Methodist Church in Britain was the guest speaker. Some members
from the Sant Nirankari Mission joined our event for the very first
time.
The session commenced by a warm welcome by Rev Ian Griffiths
minister of Haworth Road Church. Followed by Bupinder Chohan from
Nirankari Mission who briefly explained about his faith, which is a
spiritual movement that embraces teachings of all religions. There
is no discrimination on account of caste, colour, creed or
nationality. Therefore Universal Brotherhood is practised
genuinely.
Sudeepa sang an amazing spiritual
song in Hindi and playing the harmonium and Sheila accompanied her
on the dholki (drum) which further enhanced the spiritual richness
of the evening. We would like to thank Kulbinder for her hard work
in organising the music secession.
Later, peace prayers were read by people of different faiths and
denominations. The prayers were taken from the prayer leaflet
produced for "The Week of Prayers for World Peace".
Rev Alistair Newton lead the prayers by reading the
International Prayer for Peace, and other prayers were read by Rev
Christine Hawke (Methodist) Anushree (Hindu) Kath (Methodist)
Mehmooda (Muslim) Kulbinder (Nirankari) Chris (Baha'i faith) Sr
Maria (Catholic) and Revd Peterson (Baptist).
Dr Joy Barrow began her talk by explaining the significance of
inter faith relations which she feels is quite often misunderstood
and misinterpreted. This makes people think that the one way for
inter faith dialogue is for strategic reasons. She explained that
interfaith relations can happen through hospitality; adopting
attitudes, mutual respect and trusting one another.
Her personal journey of spirituality in Christian faith was
fascinating to listen; she received incredible insight of love and
grace of God through listening to Kirtan quietly in the Gurdwaras.
She shared that her spirituality is mostly meditative and through
listening to Kirtan the vibrations of words and music tapped her
body and mind and helped her to grow deeper into her
spirituality.
Her understanding of Sikhism was further enhanced through her
friendly discussions and consultations through scriptures together
with other Christians and Sikhs. She said that none of those
present were representing their faith; the whole point of the
discussion was that they were individual Christians and Sikhs who
were together exploring and understanding God through sacred
scripture. The discussions enabled those present to think true
things of faith and God. Her talk was quite challenging for some
people present. Some excited participants gathered around her
during the meal to find out more about her experience.
I am grateful to all people who have supported me to organise
this event. I am sure our guest speaker had a wonderful stay at Bob
and Margaret Marsh house.
Awais Mughal
Faith to Faith worker
Touchstone Centre
A Remarkable Evacuee Reunion
In June 1940, 28,200 children were evacuated to Cornwall, among
them about 100 Jewish children, pupils at Jews' Free School (JFS)
in London's East End.
The JFS group was bussed to Mousehole, a remote fishing village
where the children were billeted with the villagers, and Jews' Free
School, Mousehole, was established in the premises of Mousehole
School. Arrangements were made for synagogue services to be held in
a nearby church hall, while many of the evacuees also attended
chapel with their foster families, most of whom were strong
Methodists.
Most children quickly integrated into village life, and were
introduced to swimming, sailing, sculling, fishing, and mending
nets, and spent hours playing on the beach or walking along the
spectacular coastal paths. The extraordinary coming together of
these two vastly different communities was a life-changing
experience for many involved on both sides.
These events have been recorded in a recently published book,
From East End to Land's End by Susan Soyinka, who conducted
extensive interviews with some of those involved. The book resulted
in many renewed contacts between evacuees and villagers.
On 13th June, 2010, the 70th anniversary of the event, eight
former evacuees, accompanied by members of their families, once
again undertook the long train journey from Paddington to
Penzance.
A full programme followed, including a welcome by the Mayor of
Penzance, and a performance by Mousehole Male Voice Choir in the
spectacular setting of the Old Coastguard Hotel. The most poignant
event was a reception held at St Clements' Methodist Sunday School,
for which the ladies of the village had spent days preparing a
delicious spread. Many villagers arrived with photographs retrieved
from lofts and shared childhood memories with their visitors of
those unforgettable days. For many evacuees, the highlight was a
visit to Mousehole School, where they had been pupils, and a
plaque, kindly funded by JFS, was presented to the school.
As former evacuee, Mildred Moor, walked across the playground,
she remembered the precise spot where, seventy years earlier, she
had felt abandoned and alone when her two sisters were chosen for a
billet without her, but where a lovely man immediately came over to
her and said, "I'll take you, love."
After returning home, evacuee Estelle Kaye, née Esther Posner
commented, "It was such a special, nostalgic visit. The interest,
the love, the kindness shown throughout our short time there will
be moments to cherish forever."
The reunion was broadcast live on local television and radio,
and following reports published in the Jewish press, which included
a group photograph taken in 1940.
To thank the people of Mousehole, the former evacuees have
donated a menorah inscribed with the words:
With thanks to the people of Mousehole for the love and
generosity shown
to the children and teachers of Jews' Free School evacuated here
from London
in June 1940.
Presented by former evacuees in June 2010 following the 70th
anniversary reunion, when they were once again warmly received
in
Mousehole.
It also had on it an inscription in Hebrew which was the same as
that found on a plaque originally belonging to the Penzance
Synagogue, which closed 100 years ago. The menorah has been placed
in St Clements Methodist Chapel in Mousehole, and was presented to
the congregation during a service held on the 29th August.
From East End
to Land's End is published by DB Publishing (01332
384235). It is also available in shops and on-line
bookstores.
This article first appeared in 'Common Ground', the magazine
of the Council of Christians and Jews (www.ccj.org.uk ) It is
reproduced by kind permission of David Gifford, Director of
CCJ.
Celebrating Christmas Confidently:A Statement from
Julian Bond, Director of the Christian Muslim Forum
Every year there are stories of Christmas being 'banned', and
this year is no different ...
Already there have been a few stories attracting the familiar
words 'political correctness gone mad!' In fact the only people who
ever succeeded in banning Christmas, but only briefly, were the
Puritans. We take this opportunity to share some other little-known
facts about Christmas, Christians and Muslims:
- 'Winterval' was not intended as a replacement for
Christmas
- Christians celebrating Christmas do not offend people of other
faiths
- Many, many Muslims in this country were educated at Christian
(mostly Church of England) schools in this country or
elsewhere
- Muslims are baffled when they read and hear that Christmas is
being "banned" and replaced with something else to avoid offending
Muslims
- Both Christians and Muslims in the UK are concerned that a key
religious festival is overly commercialised
Because of the level of concern about the place of Christmas in
our secular, and also multi-faith, society the Christian Muslim
Forum produced this
Christmas statement in 2006.
The statement also includes an open letter from Shaykh Ibrahim
Mogra, President of the Forum and Chair of the Masjid (mosque) and
Community Affairs committee of the Muslim Council of
Britain.
On behalf of the Christian Muslim Forum I wish a Merry Christmas
to all those who will be celebrating it, as well as the approaching
Islamic New Year, and peace to all who are commemorating the
martyrdom of Imam Hussain during Ashura and Muharram.
Julian Bond
Director
Christian Muslim Forum
Mitzvah Day celebrated in Barnet
Methodists and Anglicans in East Barnet joined with members and
young people from their local Orthodox synagogue to celebrate
Mitzvah Day on Sunday 21st November 2010. They spent the day
collecting groceries and toiletries outside Sainsbury's in New
Barnet for Homeless Action in Barnet.
Brookside Methodist Church and East Barnet Parish Church are in
an ecumenical partnership for mission and ministry. In September
the two churches celebrated a joint harvest festival and invited Mr
Philip Rosenberg, the interfaith officer of the Board of Deputies
of British Jews, to speak about the Jewish celebration of harvest
in the service. Mr Rosenberg brought with him one of the Deputies,
a member of Barnet Synagogue, and plans were made to work together
on Mitzvah Day.
Mitzvah means 'commandment' or 'good deed' and is a recent
initiative from British Jews. Mitzvah Day is held at the beginning
of Interfaith Week and synagogues are encouraged to work with
others in helping people in the community. The charity which
benefited from Mitzvah Day in Barnet was originally formed as a
result of joint work between Methodists and Jews in Finchley in the
1980s when a soup kitchen was set up.
"Barnet is the most Jewish area
in Britain," said the Revd Colin Smith, the local superintendent
minister. "After the publication of the Methodist Conference report
on 'Justice for Palestine and Israel we met with local
representatives of the Jewish community to share in their concerns.
As a result of those conversations we have begun to make links with
our local synagogue and to work with them in areas of social
concern.
"We had a lot of fun working together to collect the goods and
customers were very generous in their giving. People were impressed
that Christians and Jews were working together."
National Inter Faith Week
National Inter Faith Week in England, Northern Ireland and Wales
starts this Sunday, 21 November. It is the second year that this
Week has been held. Reports of events led by or including members
of the Methodist Church will be posted on the Inter Faith Relations
pages of the Methodist Church website. If you are organising or
involved in an event for Inter Faith Week please send a report -
250-300 words, together with photographs if possible - to barrowj@methodistchurch.org.uk.
The Week is led by the Inter Faith Network, www.interfaith.org.uk
in consultation with the Department for Communities and Local
Government, the Local Government Association, the Equality and
Human Rights Commission, the Department for Education and the
Community Development Foundation. In Wales the lead is being taken
by the Inter Faith Council for Wales www.interfaithwales.org.
A national event is also being held, for the first time, in
Northern Ireland this year: http://niinterfaithforum.org
Below is an edited version of the press release issued by the
Inter Faith Network for the UK.
Rt Revd Dr Alastair Redfern and Dr
Manazir Ahsan, Co-Chairs of the Inter Faith Network for
the UK said, "Good inter faith relations and practical cooperation
between different faith communities are vital to the wellbeing of
our society in the UK. Faith communities have an enormous amount to
offer to their local communities and to national life: working both
independently and also together in ways which respect their
distinctiveness.
Inter Faith Week shines a light on the rich possibilities of
mutual engagement and offers a chance for encounter, learning and
practical engagement. We are delighted that hundreds of
organisations, such as faith groups, schools and institutions of
further and higher education, and local authorities and emergency
services are planning events."
Communities Minister Andrew Stunell said,
"Faith communities make a vital contribution to society, shaping
people's attitudes and actions and inspiring many to work for the
good of all.
This contribution, together with inter faith cooperation and
understanding, is important both for our national life and for
flourishing local communities.
Inter Faith Week provides a tremendous opportunity to highlight
the value of inter faith activities and I offer my Department's
good wishes to all those holding events during this exciting
week."
The aims of the Week are to:
- strengthen good inter faith relations at all levels
- increase awareness of the different and distinct faith
communities in the UK
- in particular, celebrate and build on the contribution which
their members make to their neighbourhoods and to wider
society
- increase understanding between people of religious and
non-religious belief.
To find out how organisations are marking the Week, visit the
Inter Faith Week website at www.interfaithweek.org.uk
Syriac Catholic Murders in Baghdad
Consequent on the attack on the Syriac Catholic Church in
Baghdad which resulted in the deaths of at least 46 worshippers,
including priests, the Presidents of the Christian Muslim Forum (christianmuslimforum.org)
issued the following statement:
"As the Presidents of the Christian Muslim Forum we condemn the
attack on the Syriac Catholic Church in Baghdad on 31 October which
resulted in the deaths of at least 46 worshippers, including
priests. We strongly emphasise that any attack on Christians or any
innocent people is not condoned by Islam, the Qur'an or the example
of the Prophet Muhammad. In fact, Islamic teaching safeguards the
rights and security both of the innocent and of places of worship.
The terrorists who committed these murders do not act or speak for
Islam and should not be seen as representing Islam in any way. We
also condemn the threats of suicide bombing by 'The Islamic State
of Iraq' (an al-Qaeda affiliate) against the Coptic Orthodox Church
in Egypt.
We also support the faithful presence of the ancient Christian
churches in Muslim countries in the Middle East. These indigenous
Christian communities predate the arrival of Islam in Iraq, Egypt
and other countries and they have lived and worshipped alongside
Muslims for nearly 1400 years. This faithful coexistence is the
shared and valuable legacy of all Christians and Muslims and we
strongly support their continuing presence.
We acknowledge that the good values of religion can become lost,
or hijacked, at times of war, suffering, inequality and oppression
and that it is the role and responsibility of religious leaders,
people of faith and all people of good will to emphasize what is
best in all our different traditions and world-views in order to
build peace. This is the task and commitment that we have taken on
through our leading roles in the Christian Muslim Forum and in
other areas of our professional and religious
responsibilities.
We therefore:
1. Urge all people of faith and goodwill to see beyond hate,
hostility, extremism and terrorism and not judge any religion,
especially in this case Islam, by the violent and destructive acts
of those who claim allegiance to a religion but deny it through
their actions.
2. Draw attention to the resources Christianity and Islam have
in their traditions, scriptures and wise, courageous and gentle
leadership to bring peace rather than war.
3. Ask all who associate religions with hatred, bloodshed and
war to look deeper into their all-pervading messages of peace with
God, neighbour and the stranger.
4. Commend all genuine peace-building and inter-religious
initiatives as antidotes to extremism, violence and terrorism and
pray that the example of friendship and peaceful living together is
seen as more ultimately more powerful than acts of hatred.
5. Ask the governments of Muslim countries to make every effort
to protect their Christian communities where they are threatened by
terrorists and extremists
6. Ask our own Government to recognize the legitimate case for
asylum of Christians fleeing oppression, persecution, death threats
and terrorism in Middle Eastern and other countries
The Christian Muslim Forum is currently planning an event, with
Muslim and Christian partners, bringing together Christians and
Muslims from the West, Iraq and other Middle Eastern countries to
explore joint action to support minority Christian communities and
their peaceful Muslim neighbours in Iraq and elsewhere."
National Inter-Faith Council to be formed in
Pakistan
July 12, 2010: In a high level meeting at
Islamabad, it was decided to form a 'National Interfaith Council'
to promote brotherhood, harmony and co-existence among various
faiths. Read
more here.
Inter Faith Relations event at the 2010 Methodist
Conference in Portsmouth
Personal and theological reflections on the spiritual journey:
'evangelism, social action and engaging with people of differing
cultures and religious faiths'
This event took place on Monday 28 June in the Lord Mayor's
Banqueting Room of Portsmouth Guildhall. Speakers included the Revd
Dr Barbara Glasson, director of the Touchstone Centre, Bradford,
and Imran Malik, a student at Cliff College, Bristol. You can read
a report of last year's event here.
Grant award to Christian Muslim Forum
The Christian Muslim Forum (CMF) has just been awarded a
three-year grant from the Methodist Church for a ground-breaking
training course enabling Christians and Muslims to qualify as youth
workers together. Our vision is of them working together with young
Christians and Muslims and offering high quality youth work in
urban areas.
Julian Bond, Director, Christian Muslim Forum, 'We are very
grateful to the Methodist Church for its generous support of the
development and delivery of this exciting training course. We also
acknowledge the Methodist Church's encouragement of our work over
the last few years.' Read more about the course
here.
Read
a report of the recent District Inter Faith Conference held in
Bradford
Om Parkesh Sharma
It is with deep sadness that the Methodist Church learned that
Mr Om Parkesh Sharma has passed away. He was a senior figure in the
Hindu community and made a highly significant contribution to
building good inter faith relations in the UK. He was actively
involved in several inter faith groups including the World Congress
of Faiths and was involved in the meetings which led to the setting
up of the Inter Faith Network for the UK in 1987 and served as both
a Co-Chair and Vice-Chair for many years. A person both of
graciousness and generosity, he will be greatly missed by members
of all faiths who are engaged in inter faith relations. The
Methodist Church sends its condolences to members of both his
family and the Hindu community.
Inter Faith Relations leaflet
A new Inter Faith Relations leaflet is now available.
You can download the
leaflet as a pdf, or if you want printed copies, please email
your request to barrowj@methodistchurch.org.uk,
specifying the number that you need, the address to which they
should be sent and the date by which they need to be
received.
District links
Many Districts have a person who provides a link between the
Inter Faith Relations Office and their District. Regular
newsletters are sent to them.
Read the latest
letter (pdf)
UN Decade of Interreligious and Intercultural Dialogue,
Understanding and Cooperation for Peace
In January 2008 the World Council of Churches (WCC) co-hosted an
inter faith consultation at the Ecumenical Institute at Bossey.
Those present included religious bodies, inter faith organisations
and faith based organisations with whom the WCC are in on going
dialogue. It was agree to propose an initiative to the United
Nations general assembly. Consequently, in November 2008, the
general assembly approved a resolution which requests several UN
agencies to work together in facilitating the consideration of such
a decade. For further information see the WCC website www.oikoumene.org.
Inter Faith Relations Officer's visit to South
India
In December 2008 Joy Barrow, the Inter Faith Relations Officer,
visited South India during which she visited the Henry Martyn
Institute in Hyderabad, the United Theological Seminary in
Bangalore, the Tamil Nadu Theological Seminary in Madurai and the
Church of South India headquarters in Chennai.
Read Joy
Barrow's report on the visit to South India (pdf)