Week of Prayer for Christian Unity 2022

An event for Christians in Luton  marking the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity

Reflecting on the Church postCoVid 

How do we as Christians understand what the Covid experience has meant for our communities? How should we move forward? Come and share your experiences and listen to others’ wisdom.

Saturday 22 January 2022   10am – 12.30pm

Holy Ghost Catholic Parish Centre, Westbourne Road, Luton LU4 8JD 

Plenty of parking available on site.  | Good News Bookstall will be available.

Keynote Speaker: Rt Rev DAVID J. OAKLEY Bishop  of the Catholic Diocese of Northampton

 Organised by Luton Ecumenical Deans’ Group

Reverend Patrick Kandeh, Superintendent Minister, South Bedfordshire Circuit

Reverend David Kesterton, Church of England Area Dean

Monsignor Kevin McGinnell, Catholic Dean

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Materials for the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity 2022 have been prepared by the churches of the Middle East – see the introduction below. English, bilingual Welsh/English, Irish and Scots Gaelic versions are available.

https://ctbi.org.uk/week-of-prayer-for-christian-unity-2022/?ct=t(CTBI_Monthly_Newsletter-Dec21)

Resources

For 2022, we are making the resources available to download only and printed versions will not be available to order.

Download resources

Dates

The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity is traditionally observed from the 18th to the 25th January – the octave of St. Peter and St. Paul. However, some areas observe it at Pentecost or some other time

Introduction

The story of the Magi visiting the Holy Family in Bethlehem is one very familiar to us. The Magi have sometimes been seen as a symbol of the world’s diversity – different religions and cultures – that comes to pay homage to the Christ-child. The story might therefore represent the unity of all created that God desires.

The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity in 2022 has been prepared by the churches of the Middle East, the history of which was, and still is, characterised by conflict and strife, tainted with blood and darkened by injustice and oppression. The Christians of the Middle East offer these resources conscious that the world shares many of the travails and much of the difficulties that it experiences, and yearns for a light to lead the way to the Saviour who is the light that overcomes darkness.

Serving the Gospel today requires a commitment to the human being, especially the poorest, the weakest and those marginalised. It requires from the churches transparency and accountability in dealing with the world, and with each other. This means churches need to cooperate to provide relief to the afflicted, to welcome the displaced, to relieve the burdened, and to build a just and honest society. This is a call for churches to work together so that young people can build a good future according to God’s heart, a future in which all human beings can experience life, peace, justice, and love.

Christian Aid

Each year Christian Aid provides the Go and Do action points for each of the daily reflections – linking into the important work of Christian Aid in the relief of poverty and advocacy of justice.

Social media

Show your support for Christian Unity by posting unity messages and details of your events to our Week of Prayer for Christian Unity Twitter wall – simply add the #wpcuwall hashtag to your Twitter post (note there is a delay before they appear). You can also find updates about the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity on Twitter by following the #wpcu2022 hashtag.

https://ctbi.org.uk/week-of-prayer-for-christian-unity-2022/?ct=t(CTBI_Monthly_Newsletter-Dec21)

Building Life Flourishing Communities from different Faith Perspectives - Virtual Gathering

Eight speakers from Luton’s different faith communities contributed to a virtual event titled “Building Life Flourishing Communities from different Faith Perspectives” held recently by CWM (Council for World Mission)[1] Europe Region, in partnership with GRASSROOTS[2].

Welcoming all and introducing the theme, Revd Dr Michael Jagessar Secretary for Europe & Caribbean Regions at the Council for World Mission (CWM) said, “Life-flourishing communities is the Council for World Mission’s (CWM) overall Strategic Framework theme for 2020-2029. In the midst of forces and powers bent on despoiling, destroying and denying, the theme underscores CWM’s commitment to God’s vision of just world and flourishing life for all, and not for a few only. This event is our partnership to engage with all faith traditions on the theme we are all committed to.” Calling for spiritual sensitivity and willingness to listen to one another with an open mind he invited David Jonathan (Johny), Director GRASSROOTS Programme Luton to introduce the speakers for the day.

 Johny said, “All our speakers today have been working hard to harness and mobilise the inclusive energy of our shared story on this shared planet. They have been working hard to connect hearts and foster greater intercultural and interfaith dialogue. They have been working hard to foster greater understanding and engagement between different faith communities and the wider world. It is therefore an honour to have them all sharing some of their insights today on the theme of Building Life Flourishing Communities. They are all gentle and humble human beings. They might refer to themselves as ‘ordinary people’, but in my eyes they are all ‘extra ordinary’ people, because of what they believe and how they put it into action, what they believe.”

For the 1st Part of the programme speakers were invited to draw upon the following Q:

What does your faith tradition say about building life flourishing communities?

What anecdote / short story / parable / reflection / poem / quote you can share from your respective religious scripture / theological perspective on the topic of “building life-flourishing communities”.

Speakers names and online links for their contributions are listed below:

Introduction by Revd Dr Michael Jagessar & David Jonathan

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FsmngCtaohM

Mr Luqman Ali (Muslim) https://youtu.be/91nbLCldek4

From Khayaal Theatre https://www.khayaal.co.uk/

Prof Gurch Randhawa (Sikh) https://youtu.be/jt5xPclFgAw

From Guru Nanak Gurudwara Luton https://gngluton.org/

Mr Yogesh Mistry (Hindu) https://youtu.be/aIvZlaRp1fg

From Shree Sanatan Sewa Samaj Hindu Mandir Luton http://www.hindumandir-luton.org/

Revd David Kesterton (Christian) https://youtu.be/haICm-zGg2o

From All Saints with St Peter C of E Luton  http://allsaintpeter.org.uk/

For the 2nd Part of the programme speakers were invited to draw upon the following Q:

Can different faiths work together to build life flourishing communities? If yes, how? Is there a model?

Speakers names and online links for their contributions are listed below:

Gulseema Bali Khan (Muslim ) https://youtu.be/_oy0GxrqU3Y

From Discover Islam Centre Luton https://discover-islam.co.uk/   

Bobby Mudhar (Sikh) https://youtu.be/6WTr1VCjvVI

From Mandip Mudhar Memorial Foundation https://mmmforg.wordpress.com/about/

Hemal Randerwala (Hindu) https://youtu.be/bLrWXEs9X_8

From Go Dharmic https://godharmic.com/

Ulrike Hunt (Christian) https://youtu.be/czpMmXz1v9A

From FEAST Programme Luton https://thefeast.org.uk/

A Closing Reflection on All Contributions by Lindsey, Member of CWM Board of Directors

https://youtu.be/re7odN9ZCJ4

The words of the following quote from theologian Sallie McFague represents aptly what the essence of this virtual event was all about.

 We, all of us, are being called to do something unprecedented. We are being called to think about ‘everything that is’, for we now know that everything is interrelated and that the well-being of each is connected to the well-being of the whole. This suggests a ‘planetary agenda’ for all the religions, all the various fields of expertise.” —Sallie McFague

NOTE:

In November 2020, CWM Europe had started to facilitate a series of webinars to help members and ecumenical partners to reflect on the Life-flourishing communities theme. Recordings of these conversations can be found at this link:

https://cwmeurope.org/what-we-do/a-series-of-webinars-building-life-flourishing-communities/   

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[1] a global partnership of 32 member churches in 31 countries, with over 50,000 congregations worldwide

[2] a Christian ecumenical programme of community engagement working with Churches and other faith communities in Luton for over 30 years

Planting “A Tree for A Life” lost in Covid

Since the pandemic started, 646 lives have been lost in Luton. Several families could not say goodbye to their loved ones in their final moments.

The Peace Garden initiative (https://www.facebook.com/PeaceGardenIni1/) is about planting a tree for a life in Luton. 

A funding target of £30k is to be raised to plant 646 trees.  

Different places of worship and faith organisations in Luton are helping with fundraising. A £50 donation will help plant 1 tree for 1 life. Online donations can be made at https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/Peacegarden

Luton North’s MP Sarah Owen also spoke about this project in the Parliament. https://www.facebook.com/SarahOwen4LutonNorth/videos/1040548019845815

The first tree planting took place on Saturday 18th December at Wigmore Park, Eaton Green Road, Luton.

Over 70 people of all ages from different racial and religious backgrounds joined in for planting over 200 trees. Several faith leaders joined too.

Sujel Miah, the mastermind behind the project said, “While planting trees, people have buried their grief. What will grow now will help sustain our common home, the planet earth for the coming generations. What a wonderful legacy to leave in memory of our loved ones.”

Mohammad Ryad Khodabocus, Head of Community Relations & Development at Luton Council of Faiths (LCoF) said, “After nearly a year of preparation and planning we finally got 230 trees into the ground including a fruit Orchard with 78 trees. The project has been to create a memorial for those who passed away with COVID-19 in Luton. Many families joined us this morning. With the initiation of this project, we aim also to cultivate a green mindset so we can leave a good legacy for the future generation.”

David Jonathan (Johny), Director, GRASSROOTS, Luton Council of Faiths and Near Neighbours Programme said, “May all those bereaved find peace and comfort and all those supporting this project be blessed abundantly! It is great that as Luton’s diverse communities, we are able to demonstrate our desire to care by sharing our grief together and working together for a better and a greener world for all.”

You can watch a short video of the tree planting here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0HuH_nGXasY https://www.facebook.com/100010919748211/videos/598478061456468

Government Resource on Safety Guidance for Religious Buildings

After the fatal stabbing of MP Sir David Amess in a Methodist Church building, and series of other terror attacks carried out at different places of worship at home and overseas, here’s one of the resources on safety guidance for religious buildings produced by the government’s Centre for the Protection of National Infrastructure (CPNI).

The resource focuses on two main areas of security-minded communications – ensuring those with malicious intent are not unintentionally given useful information, and showing how to use communications to deter these individuals.

It contains practical advice such as using community bulletin boards to display posters promoting community vigilance, being ambiguous about when the venue is being occupied, and avoiding posting images that the extent of your security features.

You can download the resource here.

Annual Peace Light Service at Luton's All Saints Church called for “Peace with the Planet”

For over twenty years, local scouts, civic guests and friends from other faith communities have gathered in mid-December for the Annual Peace Light service at All Saints Church in Luton. A flame is brought from Bethlehem to mark the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ which Christians mark at Christmas. Despite the Bethlehem Peace Light being unable to complete it’s journey from Austria to the UK in this year, Revd David Kesterton, Vicar of All Saints Church welcomed our own Peace Light.

The theme of this year’s service was “Peace with the Planet”.

Considering Climate Change has been big on everyone’s agenda this year and the UK hosted COP26 (https://ukcop26.org/) in Nov’21, the Peace Light Service this year was dedicated to the cause of Climate Justice.

Over the years, this service has had a multi faith dimension to it. This year too, with the help of Near Neighbours, different faith leaders had been invited to kindly read out short statements from their faith perspectives, on "how their faith inspires them to establish peace with the planet".

The creation story from the Jewish and Christian tradition was read, followed by reflections on how faith inspires the establishment of good stewardship of the planet: Maqsood Anwar from an Islamic viewpoint, Sanjeev Kumar reflected on Sikh tradition, Yogesh Mistry shared insights from Hindu teachings and Hilary Fox’s Jewish perspective was read by Alan.

Bishop of Bedford Rt Revd Richard Atkinson summarised our collective responsibility as custodians of God’s creation.

Talking about the the climate crisis impact on Bangladesh, Dr Nazia Khanum, OBE DL, being a British Bangladeshi and Chair of the United Nations Association-Luton Branch noted in her address that the Climate Crisis in Bangladesh is already very real. The floods and storms are far more fierce and frequent than before. If the climate deterioration is not halted and reversed soon, the lives and livelihoods of many people will disappear under the waves of the Bay of Bengal. Soil erosion, land fall, drought and excessive rainfall have caused internal displacements of many people in the country already. In addition, Bangladesh is hosting about a million Rohingya people who fled from the ethnic cleansing in Myanmar a few years ago. Most of them and many others live in small islands – more vulnerable to floods and storms. So, instead of causing displacement and suffering to millions of potential climate victims & refugees from Bangladesh, developed countries must “stop causing” and “start reversing” the climate deterioration and help countries like Bangladesh become more resilient and better prepared to address the Climate crisis.

Commending faith leaders for raising awareness about these issues, she added the big polluters of the world, which are predominantly all the rich countries, must also make rapid progress in switching to clean and reusable energy consumption and green economy. Bangladesh has already built the world’s largest Solar and wind Power Project.  What we need now is the global cooperation for similar green economy projects, around the world. 

Welcoming the Peace Light, The Mayor of Luton Cllr Mahmood Hussain said, “May this light be a sign of our commitment to making peace with the planet – our earthly home.”

All attending the service shared the Peace Light with one another. A closing prayer said, “May we see the world, our common home, not as a resource to dominate and exploit, but as a gift to be cherished by all generations.”

From L to R: Yogesh Mistry (Hindu Guest), Sanjeev Kumar (Sikh Guest), Maqsood Anwar (Muslim Guest) sharing the Peace Light with others at the Annual Peace Light Service held on 14th Dec’21 at All Saints Church, Shaftsbury Road, Luton.

From L to R: Bishop Richard Atkinson, Yogesh Mistry (Hindu Speaker), Alan Smith (speaking on behalf of a Jewish contributor), Sanjeev Kumar (Sikh Speaker), Revd David Kesterton (Host) & Maqsood Anwar (Muslim Speaker) at the Annual Peace Light Service held on 14th Dec’21 at All Saints Church, Shaftsbury Road, Luton.

Reflecting on Church Post-Covid with Rt Rev David J Oakley Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Northampton

http://lutonchurchestogether.org.uk/events/reflecting-on-the-church-postcovid-an-event-for-christians-in-luton-marking-the-week-of-prayer-for-christian-unity/

An event for Christians in Luton marking the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity

Reflecting on the Church post-Covid 

How do we as Christians understand what the Covid experience has meant for our communities? 

How should we move forward? 

Come and share your experiences and listen to others’ wisdom

Saturday 22 January 2022   10am – 12.30pm

Holy Ghost Catholic Parish Centre, Westbourne Road, Luton LU4 8JD 

Plenty of parking available on site. 

Good News Bookstall.

Keynote Speaker

Rt Rev DAVID J. OAKLEY

Bishop  of the Catholic Diocese of Northampton

Rt Rev David J Oakley Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Northampton https://northamptondiocese.org/bishop-david/

LCoF Founding Members Honoured at their Doorstep

Earlier on 20th July 2021, amidst Covid restrictions, only few people could be invited when HM Lord Lieutenant of Bedfordshire Helen Nellis presented the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service (QAVS) to Luton Council of Faiths (LCoF) at the Council Chamber in Luton Town Hall.

During Inter Faith Week on 15th Nov’21 an event was held to celebrate this success by presenting our many volunteers, faith and community leaders, the Queens Award for Voluntary Service (QAVS) Badges.

Amongst few others, two of the founding members of LCoF (now retired) were unable to join on 15th Nov, because of mobility issues.

On 1st Dec’21, LCoF Chair Prof Zafar Khan & Vice Chair Gulie Butcher visited those two founding members Mary Salvage (Christian) & Barbara Felson (Jewish) and presented them the Queens Award for Voluntary Service (QAVS) Badges at their doorstep in a Covid-safe way.

They also presented a QAVS Badge to Mrs Tara Solanki, wife of Late Mr Natu Bhai Solanki (Hindu) whose immense contributions to LCoF over the years are fondly remembered.

Thank you to all our wonderful volunteers, well-wishers and partners for supporting the work of Luton Council of Faiths.

From L to R: Mrs Tara Solanki wife of Late Mr Natu Bhai Solanki (Hindu), two founding members Barbara Felson (Jewish) & Mary Salvage (Christian) presented with the Queens Award for Voluntary Service (QAVS) Badges at their doorstep in a Covid-safe way.by LCoF Chair Prof Zafar Khan & Vice Chair Gulie Butcher

Pauline Cutting Passed Away

Pauline Cutting (1932 – 2021), a member of St Luke’s Leagrave and a longstanding member & supporter of Luton Council of Faiths (LCoF) & Luton Food Bank had passed away on 1st Nov’21.

In her funeral service, held on 29th Nov’21 at 10:30am at St Luke’s Leagrave, David Jonathan (Johny), on behalf of Luton Council of Faiths (LCoF) presented QAVS (Queens Award for Voluntary Services) Badge to her son Michael, for his mother Pauline Cutting’s immense support and contributions to the work of Luton Council of Faiths and Luton Food Bank.

Johny said during Inter Faith Week on 15th Nov’21 an event was held to celebrate Luton Council of Faiths (LCoF) completing 20 years since registered as an independent Charity and 25 years, since founded as Inter Faith Forum. This event also acknowledged the tremendous contributions of several of LCoF volunteers, faith and community leaders, supporters and partners. All those invited were honoured by the Queens Award for Voluntary Service (QAVS) Badge Presentations on 15th Nov’21.

Pauline Cutting was remembered and dearly missed at this event.

At the funeral service, before presenting Pauline Cutting’s QAVS Badge to her son Michael, Johny recalled during his 20 years of service with GRASSROOTS & LCoF, one particular experience has never been repeated twice. And that is watching a British Indian Hindu, British Pakistani Muslim, an African Muslim, a Caribbean & Indian Christian, all enjoying home-made pancakes at Pauline Cutting’s house on Shrove Tuesday and donating money for St Luke’s Church and Luton Food Bank.

Long live the spirit of Pauline Cutting. She was truly an inspirational and charismatic human being. We will miss her.

Right Reverend Richard Atkinson visits different places of worship in Luton

Church of England St Albans Diocese Bishop (for Luton) Rt Revd Richard Atkinson has always remained keen to stay connected with different faith communities in Luton.

During this year's Inter Faith Week he visited a number of places of worship and faith leaders in Luton, which included Central Mosque, Luton United Synagogue, Restoration Revival Fellowship House, Shree Sanatan Sewa Samaj Hindu Mandir.

These visits were facilitated jointly by GRASSROOTS, Near Neighbours Programme & Luton Council of Faiths, to sustain good community relations in Luton and to continually share one another's concerns and aspirations in the post-Brexit, post-Black Lives Matter and post-Covid contexts.

It was about sharing stories and practical examples of living well together as good neighbours alongside people from different religious and racial backgrounds.

During these visits, Bishop Richard said, “All of us from diverse backgrounds have similar experiences and life struggles and have common shared aspirations for a better world. It is therefore important we continue to strive to work together for the common good.”

As the Jewish festival Chanukah and Christian Advent season begin simultaneously this year, Bishop Richard encourages all to share the light of hope with one another.

Please support the campaign if you can, by sharing a picture of your Chanukah or Advent candles on social media, using the hashtags #sharethelight #happychanukah #happyadvent.

L to R: Bishop Richard Meeting Imam Hafiz Ejaz Ahmed at Central Mosque, Rabbi Joseph Schwei at United Synagogue, Lewsey Farm Hindu Mandir Pujari Shree Utsavbhai Khambholja & Pastors Llyod Denny and Vincent Cox at Restoration Revival Fellowship House

Diocese of St Albans Commemorates Inter Faith Week 2021

To commemorate this year’s Inter Faith Week, St Albans Diocesan Inter Faith Advisors – Revs Tony Rindl, David Kesterton and Reader Gillian Kern, joined by Bishop Richard Atkinson held first of its kind event of sharing stories and practical examples of living well together as good neighbours alongside people from different religious and racial backgrounds.

In his opening remarks Bishop Richard said all of us from different faith backgrounds have similar experiences and struggles and have common shared aspirations for a better world. It is therefore important we reflect on how we all can work together for the common good.

Sharing his personal life journey of engaging with people from different faiths, in his hyper diverse parish in Luton, Revd David Kesterton said “It hasn’t flattened or undermined but enriched my faith”.

David said “Diversity brings huge richness and huge challenges but Jesus met with people from different traditions throughout His life; as Christians we are called to do that too.”

Referring to Generous Love: the truth of the Gospel and the call to dialogue (an Anglican theological document on inter faith relations), David said, “Fruits of the Spirit are not just found in Christian faith. It is found in other faith traditions too.”

Revd Tony Rindl, commenting on his Jewish (parental) heritage, shared stories and anecdotes from his life, how encountering those from different religious backgrounds has actually helped him to question and discern in a meaningful way ‘who I am’.  

Tony said, “I am unashamedly Christian, but if this one experience taught me so much what else can I learn from others.”

He added, “Inter faith engagement helps us to see the bigger picture and helps us to explore and ask more challenging questions with a view to learn & grow in the spirit of mutuality, friendship and trust.”

A few invited guests from different faiths also contributed to the evening saying different faith and community leaders must “role-model our friendships to inspire our younger generation”. When we not just act but act together, it influences positively our future generations.

Faith motivates and inspires our social action – how much more can we do if we all responded ‘together’ to some of the global concerns e.g. climate change, racism, poverty.

David Jonathan (Johny) working with GRASSROOTS & Near Neighbours Programme said, “It’s not about competing but complementing one another.”

He said, “Inter faith conversations are not about diluting or undermining the uniqueness of our faith & belief.  In fact it is about asserting and affirming our differences but doing it in a way so that it does not breed conflict; instead it enriches our understanding.”

“Let’s not do it separately what we can do together” was the key outcome of the evening.

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 NOTES:

1)      The Diocese of St Albans is a diverse diocese.  It includes a significant number of parishes where other faith communities comprise more than ten percent of the population.  As a diocese we are committed to engaging with and partnering with members of other faith communities for the common good. To support parishes and clergy, we have Diocesan Interfaith Advisers and we have also partnered with Luton based Grassroots Programme, which has been working with Churches and different faith communities in Luton for over 30 years.

 2)      Inter Faith Week 2021 begins on Sunday 14 November in England, Northern Ireland and Wales. This is a special Week which highlights the contribution of faith groups to society; encourages greater inter faith understanding and cooperation and also dialogue between those of religious and non-religious beliefs.  It is timed to begin each year on Remembrance Sunday to encourage remembering together of the service of those of different faiths and beliefs from the UK and the Commonwealth.

3)      More information on Inter Faith Week can be found at: http://www.interfaithweek.org/

The hashtag for social media is #InterFaithWeek.

Inter Faith Week social media accounts can be found at

http://www.twitter.com/IFWeek

http://www.facebook.com/ifweek

http://www.instagram.com/IFWeek

A copy of this press release can also be found at

https://www.interfaithweek.org/news/press-releases

Copyright © 2021 The Inter Faith Network for the UK, All rights reserved.

 4)      Inter Faith Week is a programme of the Inter Faith Network for the UK (IFN),  a charity which has been working since 1987 to promote inter faith understanding and cooperation in the UK. IFN’s programme of work, including Inter Faith Week, is supported by faith communities, the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, trusts and other donors.

5)      A range of Inter Faith Week activities in England are being supported also through the Near Neighbours Programme of the Church Urban Fund, including through its Government supported small grants scheme.

Peace Garden Initiative-A Tree for Every Life

Peace Garden Initiative- Plant a tree for a loved one.

We are literally Planting Peace! and we need your support!

Since the pandemic started, 646 lives have been lost to date as a result of Covid -19 in Luton. The restrictions have made it difficult to be close to those we love in their final moments.

The Peace Garden initiative gives grieving families across communities an opportunity to plant a tree in Luton and do something positive in memory of a loved one. Planting a tree for those we love is a beautiful act of leaving a legacy for those who left us an looking for a brighter future for the Lutonians Town and a better future for the Planet greening Luton.

As we grow the project it will also coincides with the Queen's Green Canopy initiative.

Your contribution will help facilitate the planting of trees in Luton for every life lost due to the Covid-19: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/Peacegarden

If you wish to be involved in planting a tree for a loved one please complete the form:

https://forms.gle/J6gXE5XzCBdMBQJ9A

For further information please like/follow Facebook Peace Garden Initiative

Please share message with friends & family, congregations and places of worship, Businesses and Charities.

A tree for every life- Watch the community video below!

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=MFBc7S6A9CY

Sheila Marsden receives a QAVS Badge during Inter Faith Week 2021

GRASSROOTS teamed up with Luton Council of Faiths (LCoF) and held an event Strengthening Cohesion in Luton, supported by NEAR NEIGHBOURS Programme, during Inter Faith Week 2021.

Besides different faith leaders invited to read out a shared statement commemorating Inter Faith Week, this event was also about acknowledging and celebrating the invaluable contributions of several volunteers, faith and community leaders, supporters and partner organisations in building peace and reconciliation in Luton and presenting a QAVS Badge to volunteers, supporters and partners for their services and support.

Earlier in Jul’21, amidst Covid restrictions, only few people could be invited to witness HM Lord Lieutenant of Bedfordshire Helen Nellis, presenting the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service (QAVS) to Luton Council of Faiths (LCoF).  At this event many others were invited who weren’t able to join in Jul’21.

Sheila Marsden was one of them.

Sheila Marsden is part of Wigmore Methodist & United Reform Church (URC) Local Ecumenical Partnership (LEP) Church . She is one of the trustees and back bone of Grassroots Luton and has been supporting voluntarily the work of LCoF over the years. She has been a long standing supporter of Interfaith work and over the years, she has helped in making the key decisions to support the work of LCOF and GRASSROOTS. Her support and presence in our Town is invaluable and her commitment, dedication and goodwill for everyone in this town is exemplary.

Here’s the poem written by Sheila Marsden, which was also read out by her at GRASSROOTS 25th Anniversary Celebrations held on 22nd March 2018.

My Town Luton

It's the place I know best;

the place of my birth and rites of passage,

where I grew up loved and wanted. 

We raised our family here,

and gathered friends, young and not so young.

This town gave me my livelihood,

and the many children I still remember through the passing of years.

As I reflect on my town -

seeing it changing, as it will always do -

I will defend it from those who seek to scoff, deride and divide.

I see people around me

working to make this town a harmonious place in which to live;

people who speak up and speak out,

together,

as peacemakers and reconcilers.

I hope their example will rub off on me. 

I pray so,

because I feel blessed to be a Lutonian.

And so in my daily living

I will choose to be a maker of peace.

Sheila Marsden, May 2016

Inter Faith Week 2021 begins on Sunday 14 November

https://www.interfaithweek.org/news/press-release-thousands-set-to-take-part-in-inter-faith-week-2021

Inter Faith Week 2021 begins on Sunday 14 November in England, Northern Ireland and Wales.

The Inter Faith Network for the UK, in its press statement said this is a special Week which highlights the contribution of faith groups to society; encourages greater inter faith understanding and cooperation and also dialogue between those of religious and non-religious beliefs.  It is timed to begin each year on Remembrance Sunday to encourage remembering together of the service of those of different faiths and beliefs from the UK and the Commonwealth.

The Week is open to all and thousands of people of different backgrounds and ages take part directly, with millions encountering its positive messages through social media.  Recent years have seen ever more types of organisations taking part, from faith, belief and inter faith organisations, to others such as schools, sports clubs, hospitals and hospices, police, and youth organisations. 
 
Hundreds of bodies have already registered activities for this year’s Week. Coming just after COP26, quite a number of these are focused on environmental issues and how faith communities can help tackle climate change. A sampler of activities can be found here.

The Rt Revd Jonathan Clark and Narendra Waghela, Co-Chairs of the Inter Faith Network for the UK, which leads on the Week, said: 

“Inter Faith Week is a force for understanding, as well as encouraging action together for the common good. It is also a powerful antidote to ignorance and prejudice.

Each year Inter Faith Week opens the door to new friendships and to new working partnerships and projects which make a practical difference to how we all live together in our diverse society, building on values held in common.”

The Government’s Minister for Faith, Kemi Badenoch MP, said: 

“Inter Faith Week is a perfect opportunity for people of all beliefs to reach out to and learn from different communities.
 
“I am proud to live in a country that recognises and respects the rich history of diverse communities in Britain and in my role as Faith Minister, I remain committed to raising awareness across society of inter faith issues.”

At Bedfordshire Lieutenancy’s Service of Thanksgiving, Remembrance and Hope, HM Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire Helen Nellis, said

“We meet together with representatives of the richly diverse communities in our county, to give thanks for all those who have used their skills, their generosity, their compassion and their love to help the people of Bedfordshire come through the enormous challenges we are facing due to the pandemic. 

We also join hands to remember all those who have died during this time, recognising that we have not been able to grieve and honour our deceased loved ones in the way in which we would have desired. We bless their memory and put our arms around those who are bereaved.

We look forward in hope, building on what we have learnt about the power of neighbours and communities reaching out one to another and the excellent partnerships that have been formed which have had such a beneficial impact on how we help make things better. The symbols of hope are the saplings that will be blessed and planted in each part of our county.

During the past 18 months, we have seen much suffering, but we have equally seen the light of love as people have gone the extra mile to seek out those who need help. I am so proud that people of Bedfordshire have shown their generosity of spirit in such large measure and am optimistic that we will go forward in our determination to build communities where all feel welcome, at home and are able to flourish.”

Inter Faith Week 2021 Activities In Luton

Strengthening Cohesion in Luton on Mon 15th Nov'21 (7-9pm) At Holy Ghost Catholic Church Hall, 33 Westbourne Rd, Luton LU4 8JD

This is a Covid-safe socially distanced event gathering people from different faiths during Inter Faith Week to celebrate Luton Council of Faiths (LCoF) completing 20 years since registered as an independent Charity and 25 years, since founded as Inter Faith Forum. And in this year, LCoF also received The Queens Award for Voluntary Service (QAVS). This event will therefore acknowledge the tremendous contributions of several volunteers, faith and community leaders, supporters and partner organisations in building peace and reconciliation in Luton.

Bishop's Inter Faith Visits in Luton On Tue 16th Nov’21 (2-9pm)

In our efforts to live up to the spirit and ethos of Near Neighbours Programme, we are facilitating Inter Faith Visits to 5 different places of worship during the Inter Faith Week. Rt Revd Richard Atkinson, Bishop of Bedford (covering Luton), a former Trustee of Near Neighbours & former Co-Chair of Inter Faith Network UK has kindly agreed to join us in supporting and endorsing our commitment to sustain good community relations in Luton by continually sharing one another's concerns and aspirations, in the post-Brexit, post-Covid, post-Black Lives Matter context(s).

Diocesan Inter Faith Week event on 17th Nov'21 (7-9pm) at St Stephen's Church Hall, Watling Street, St Albans, Herts AL1 2PT
The Diocese of St Albans is a diverse diocese. There are large Jewish communities in south Hertfordshire and Barnet, and large Muslim, Hindu and Sikh communities in Watford, Hitchin, St Albans, Luton and Bedford. As a diocese it is committed to engaging with and partnering with members of other faith communities for the common good. During this year’s Inter Faith Week, we are enabling the Diocese to hold an Inter Faith Week event on 17th November 2021, in which Luton’s faith & community leaders will share stories and practical examples of living well together as good neighbours.

Zoom Meeting of Faith Leaders and Public Sector Representatives on 18th Nov'21 (5:30pm - 7pm)

Mr Gurpal Singh Binning, Vice President Guru Nanak Gurudwara Luton at Lord Lieutenant of Bedfordshire Annual Service of Thanksgiving and Remembrance

Remembrance Service held at University of Bedfordshire Luton Campus

In a short statement for Remembrance Service held on 11th Nov’21 at University of Bedfordshire (Luton Campus), David Jonathan working with GRASSROOTS, Near Neighbours and Luton Council of Faiths, said;

The First World War was "The war to end all wars", but we know it didn’t happen that way.

Then World War II happened; and it turned out to be THE deadliest conflict.

It is good that in Remembrance Services, we remember the great human beings, the heroes who laid down and sacrificed their lives for the world peace, but it is also good to remember that it wasn’t all white British or Europeans who sacrificed their lives. 

5.5 million Muslims had participated on the allied side of the war during WWII and it is said that nearly 1.5 million Muslims were killed in action. Over 10,000 Palestinians had also fought for Britain in WW2 in Egypt.[1]

Nearly 2 million Sikh soldiers sacrificed their lives in the two World Wars. Sikhs represented more than 60 percent of the total Indian force that fought against the Japanese.[2]

A BBC news article states; Approximately 1.3 million Indian soldiers served in World War One, and over 2.5 million had joined the British forces in the World War 2, but history has mostly forgotten these sacrifices…[3]

This is why it is important that Inter Faith Week in the UK starts every year on Remembrance Sunday so that we can acknowledge and celebrate the tremendous contributions that people of different faiths and ethnicity have made in the making of Great Britain.

However, it is worth pointing out that our soldiers and civilians did not sacrifice their lives for the kind of ‘nationalism’, ‘hate’ & ‘racism’ we see all over the world today.

Let us hope that we will not recreate the mistakes from the past.

Let us hope that we can learn to appreciate the importance of co-existence.

Let us hope that we can learn to appreciate the fact that we belong to one another and that we need one another for the well-being of all and that of our common home, planet earth.

[1] https://www.muslimwarmemorial.org/education/the-role-of-muslims-in-ww2/

[2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sikhs_in_the_British_Indian_Army

[3] https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-33317368

The University of Bedfordshire Luton Campus Chaplain Revd Andrew Goodman, said

“Every year I am enormously moved when friends from different faiths come together and support our Remembrance Service at the University Campus. A visible presence of our different faiths united together speaks powerfully to the University and our young people - it demonstrates peace and people are often moved to see us united.”

Revd Andrew Goodman, Chaplain University of Bedfordshire Luton Campus and Professor Rebecca Bunting, Vice Chancellor and Chief Executive of the University of Bedfordshire joined by President of Students Union, members from different faith communities

Luton Salvation Army Christmas Toy Appeal

Luton Salvation Army Christmas Toy Appeal - Donations Needed by 6th December 2021

Each year Luton Salvation Army launches its Toy appeal with the sole purpose of providing toys to children who this year will not receive anything at all. Salvation Army works with Luton Council, Social services and all of the family workers at the schools in Luton. Last year they provided enough toys for 1072 children (that is over 5000 toys). It is worth stressing that this is not a top-up of toys they will be receiving already. These toys are ONLY for children who will genuinely receive nothing at all.

Many churches and their parishioners give so generously at church toy services. Salvation Army would be so grateful if ministers could please put something in their church newsletters about this appeal and let everyone know that we also have an Amazon Christmas Toy appeal wish-list. These are toys which have already been matched to children. People can just buy them and they are automatically delivered to Luton Salvation Army. The link is here…https://www.amazon.co.uk/hz/wishlist/ls/2WAFVMV2PSLQF?ref_=wl_share&fbclid=IwAR371SN6igrzAyMn9aQS_RdKaKAKPadFwu0W-mEuBc6sAkDcE_aAf4C99Rw

Over the years a number of Mosques have also had toy appeals within their places of worship for which Salvation Army is truly grateful. They are hoping that they could do it again this year if possible or they could just let their congregations know about it.

lutonchristmastoys@salvationarmy.org.uk

http://lutonchurchestogether.org.uk/salvation-army-toy-appeal/

COP26 Coalition Day of Action

With the UK hosting COP26 many people in the UK have walked & travelled to Glasgow to put pressure on the governments and demand action for climate justice, but there are many people who also took action in their own local areas by joining the COP26 Coalition Day of Action on Sat 6 November.

In Luton over a hundred people had gathered at 1pm at Town Hall.

Numerous speakers from different organisations spoke at this event including Bedfordshire Climate Change Forum, Luton Quakers, Friends of the Earth, Jeremy Williams - Luton based author and activist running The Earthbound Report, recognised as the best green blog in the UK by Vuelio and the UK Blog Awards.

Jeremy Williams said, “There’s little reason to think that COP26 is going to be different from the 25 conferences that came before it. It’s important because it’s the only international process that we have, but it’s completely inadequate. And that’s why this march comes right in the middle of it, as a demand for climate justice and an end to the powerful playing the system.

The message from protests like this one, and much bigger ones than this one that are happening in Glasgow and all around the world today is to say – we deserve better. Better than PR spin and greenwash, than delay and distraction. Better than the decision to prioritise corporate profits and economic growth over a liveable future.

For the world’s most vulnerable. For the natural world. For our children. We can do better.

And where governments will not act, people will.“ 

Jeremy’s full speech can be found here.

Thanking David Jonathan (Johny), working with GRASSROOTS, Luton Council of Faiths and Near Neighbours Programme, Colin Hall the Luton Beekeeper and member of Luton Quakers said, “It was really great to to share the action with you, with a super placard you brought with you. I need to thank you for your support for Climate Justice in terms of this event and in other contexts. The role of a combined Faith voice is valuable and important - I hope that it can grow in Luton and worldwide.”

5 - 11 November 2021
WEEKLY HIGHLIGHT

https://www.oikoumene.org/cop26
UN climate summit COP26 in Glasgow

The local weekly newspaper Luton News reported on 10th Nov’21 that campaigners gathered in Luton Town Centre on Saturday 6th Nov’21 to highlight what they say is the lack of progress at the COP 26 climate change conference in Glasgow. Protesters of all ages and cultures listened to many speakers and there was a march through the town centre accompanied by a samba band. The speakers were from about 16 local groups, including Sarah Owen MP, Lynn Place from Luton and Bedfordshire Green party said “Unless ordinary people get active soon, it will be too late. Politicians will not do anything without being pushed.“

A spokesperson from Extinction Rebellion Luton said: “ The biggest and quickest thing that we can do in Britain is to stop banks using our money to invest in coal, oil and gas projects. About 5% of those projects worldwide are financed by UK banks. Change your bank.“

A woman and her daughter from the crowd read a very moving ‘solemn statement’ and two teenagers from the Woodcraft Folk read out the five demands that climate activist Greta Tunberg presented at COP 26. During the march through the town there were ‘die ins’ outside HSBC and Barclays who invest in fossil fuels. UK bank investments put up four times more CO2 than the whole of Britain say campaigners.

Cambridge Interfaith Programme

Over the summer, Cambridge Interfaith Programme launched a new podcast series as part of its Religion and Global Challenges initiative. You can find full details here.

https://mailchi.mp/41bb6c694161/news-from-cambridge-livestreamed-seminars-podcasts-classroom-resources-more?e=d3eb25f9a1

For presentations on some specific topics of interest, please see and click on the images below.

World Council of Churches (WCC) sends Diwali Greetings

https://www.oikoumene.org/news/wcc-sends-diwali-greetings-to-hindu-friends

World Council of Churches (WCC) acting general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Ioan Sauca sent greetings to Hindu communities celebrating the festival of Diwali

“In some parts of the world, at this season of the year, nights are getting longer, and even days seem to  get darker, so the symbol of light that is at the heart of the message of Diwali speaks with particular power and intensity,” wrote Sauca. “As you celebrate Diwali amidst the various forms of social unrest in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, political tensions in many regions, and the climate emergency, which are are threatening the sustainability of our life, our earth, and our human community, Diwali’s longing to move from darkness to light is particularly meaningful.”

Sauca wished the WCC’s Hindu friends a happy celebration. “I also want to express my sincere hope that during the coming year, the World Council of Churches and people of the Hindu faith can work together to bring the light of justice and peace where the darkness of injustice and violence prevails,” he concluded.

Read the letter here

https://www.oikoumene.org/news/wcc-sends-diwali-greetings-to-hindu-friends

Faith leaders unite against Policing Bill

Quakers in Britain have co-convened a joint faiths and beliefs letter calling on the government to rethink the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill.

https://www.quaker.org.uk/news-and-events/news/faith-leaders-unite-against-policing-bill

The letter was signed by 30 faith and belief leaders and was printed in The Independent (online version).

Signatories include the Bishop of Manchester (Church of England), Marie van der Zyl (President, Board of Deputies of British Jews), Lord Singh of Wimbledon CBE (Director, Network of Sikh Organisations)., Zara Mohammed, Secretary-General, The Muslim Council of Britain (MCB), Revd Clare Downing, Moderator of General Assembly, United Reformed Church, Revd Sonia Hicks, President of the Methodist Conference, Methodist Church of Britain and several others.

The letter expresses concerns about the new restrictions on peaceful processions and assemblies present a grave threat to civil liberties in this country, and would allow the police to potentially criminalise a wide range of scenarios.

Please read the full letter on the link below.

https://www.quaker.org.uk/news-and-events/news/faith-leaders-unite-against-policing-bill

Police observing peaceful protest

Climate Crisis: Faith in the Environment

As global leaders are heading to Glasgow this week for the crucial UN Conference on Climate Change, COP26, not only faith communities and other civil society groups, even a dinosaur is seen to be talking about the climate change challenges now.

As part of UNDP’s ‘Don’t Choose Extinction’ campaign, a film showcases how a dinosaur takes to the UN General Assembly iconic podium, exhorting world leaders and diplomats saying: Don’t choose extinction.

The Dinosaur addresses the delegates, “Listen up people. I know a thing or two about extinction. Going extinct is a bad thing. And driving yourselves extinct is the most ridiculous thing I’ve ever heard”.

“You’ve got a huge opportunity right now, as you rebuild your economies and bounce back from this pandemic.”

“This is humanity’s big chance. So, don’t choose extinction. It’s time for you humans to stop making excuses and start making changes”.

In last week’s virtual event “Climate Crisis: Faith in the Environment”, jointly organized by United Nations Association-Luton, Luton Council of Faiths, Grassroots & Near Neighbours, nearly a dozen speakers from different faith & belief backgrounds shared the importance of actively preserving the creation and living in harmony with the environment.

Quoting a UNDP research figure of an astounding USD 423 billion spent globally every year to subsidise fossil fuels, UNA Luton Chair Dr Nazia Khanum,OBE, DL said, “This could cover the cost of COVID-19 vaccinations for every person in the world, or pay for three times the annual amount needed to eradicate global extreme poverty.”

Professor Zafar Khan Chair Luton Council of Faiths said, “Climate Change is much bigger than any of us, but the importance of our actions cannot be under-estimated. Faith communities have much to contribute. We all have the opportunity to make a fresh start. Humanity’s future depends on the decisions which will be taken by the world governments at and after COP26”.

Right Reverend Richard Atkinson, C of E St Albans Diocese Bishop for Luton said, “Climate change is not just lifestyle issue – it is life and death issue. Therefore, our hope must come from the realization that creation is God’s gift, secondly it is about repentance – saying sorry and to do things differently, thirdly to make a real commitment to our global neighbours who have done the least to cause climate change but are affected most and worst by it.”

As a facilitator and event co-organiser David Jonathan, working with Grassroots, Luton Council of Faiths & Near Neighbours Programme in Luton, said, “We are earthlings – made up of earth stuff. We are microcosms of the earth. We are part of the eco-system. We cannot survive without it.” Reviewing too-much-emphasis on technology, he said, “Technology cannot save us, but nature has the potential of healing our planet if we give it a chance.”

 All very thoughtful and inspirational presentations from different faiths had one common message to proclaim that as co-creators, we are all called to be in harmony with nature. Let us give it a chance to reincarnate a greener world.  

The recording of this event can be viewed at https://www.una-luton.uk/climate-crisis OR https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6RLlql3dg-A

Also you may be interested in reading this blog article - https://blogs.lse.ac.uk/religionglobalsociety/2021/10/cop26-and-care-for-creation-the-role-of-faith-communities-in-the-un-climate-discussions/

People from different faith & belief backgrounds shared the importance of actively preserving the creation and living in harmony with the environment.