Celebrating Diwali

Temple Street Methodist Church in Fenton, Stoke-on-Trent celebrated Diwali, the festival of light, last month. The event, which has been a highlight of the church's community calendar for the past two years, offers a powerful demonstration of how interfaith engagement can build bridges and foster understanding.

Diwali at Temple Street Methodist Church is a community celebration rather than a religious service. It began when a young couple, Harji and Kamal, arrived in Fenton from India, ten years ago.

The pair became volunteers at the local foodbank that was operating from the church. Harji has led Bollywood and Bhangra dance classes at the church for several years and thought how wonderful it would be for an annual Diwali celebration, an idea that was embraced by the church.

More than 80 tickets were sold to this year’s event. Among the attendees were local figures including councilors and representatives from the police. Guests enjoyed a range of lively Bollywood and Bhangra performances, led by Harji and followed by a shared meal of traditional Indian dishes.

The event also raised over £1,000 for local charities, with Temple Street Methodist supporting by offering its Victoria Community Lounge free of charge, providing a welcoming space for people to come together.

The Revd Joe Lightfoot Adams, Minister at Temple Street Methodist Church, reflected on the significance of the event. "Diwali is a celebration of the hope that still burns bright even in the face of the darkness of the onrushing winter," he said. "As Christians, we too celebrate the light and hope of God, especially in these days where hatred and fear of others try to tear our communities apart. I am honoured to stand with my sisters and brothers of faith and none in this great City as we proclaim hope and unity in the face of division and mistrust."

The Revd Joe continued, "God’s Spirit was clearly present, uniting us against racism and hatred. God, who is love and light, always shines with hope for all."