Bedfordshire Police Force secures first ever sentence for forced marriage

This week Bedfordshire Police has secured our first ever sentencing for forced marriage. 

Kulbir Singh Moroak wanted to stay in the UK, and hoped marriage would secure him a UK passport and visa.

Moroak subjected the victim to physical, verbal and emotional abuse for months, before forcing her into marriage.

In November last year, concerned friends contacted Bedfordshire Police to report the abuse, however the victim at the time feared that if she spoke out, she would be abused further. 

Our specialist Emerald domestic abuse team remained in contact with her discretely and continued to provide support and guidance, until she felt ready to come forward herself.

This culminated in a situation where Moroak assaulted the woman and forced her to flee from officers, which led to her eventually opening up to police once he was arrested.

In her victim impact statement, she said: “Having the Bedfordshire Police arrest him on that day was relief for me as I knew then he can’t hurt me. I was fearing for my life, and I thought he was going to kill me.”

She added: “If I did not do this, he would have done this to someone else’s life.”

Moroak, from Luton, was found guilty of forced marriage, coercive and controlling behaviour, three counts of common assault and two counts of intentional strangulation in June.

He was given a prison sentence of four-and-a-half years and handed a restraining order for 10 years.

We have released footage of the moment Moroak was arrested, to help spread awareness about forced marriage and other forms of male violence against women and girls.

We know domestic abuse can often leave victims feeling vulnerable and scared to speak to anyone, including police, but please be assured that we will do everything we can to support victims of abuse in Bedfordshire.

When it comes to forced marriage, we recognise that it is extremely difficult to come forward. Often the victim will need to go against their family, friends and sometimes their community, and that it is not always easy to report.

Whilst this sentencing is the first of its kind in Bedfordshire, we hope it demonstrates that victims’ voices will be heard. It is never too late to come forward and report, and we will listen.

We have a number of specialist trained officers who can support people through any criminal proceedings with respect and care, and we are extremely proud to work so closely with a number of partner organisations who can offer such fantastic support.

We would always encourage our partners to report things through the usual channels and make the relevant safeguarding referrals.

For forced marriage and other forms of honour based abuse specifically, Karma Nirvana is the national charity offering tailored support to victims.

I would also encourage you to signpost people to the Bright Sky app, which is available in multiple languages and can be downloaded through the App Store or Google Play.

A full range of local and national support services is available through the Bedfordshire Domestic Abuse Partnership website.

From us here in Bedfordshire Police, I would also signpost you to our ongoing work to combat male violence against women and girls, as well as our collection of communications materials such as posters, leaflets and social media assets to help spread awareness about this and other vitally important topics in our communities.

Thank you for your ongoing support.

Detective Sergeant Nash Hussain

Conflict prevention and a new agenda for peace

JPIT (JOINT PUBLIC ISSUES TEAM - The Baptist Union of Great Britain, the Methodist Church and the United Reformed Church working together for peace and justice) has produced a new briefing and resources to help individuals, small groups and churches to reflect, discuss and act.

The conflict in Ukraine prompts deep questions. Avoiding shallow answers and without imposing one particular viewpoint, we examine tricky and sometimes contentious issues such as sanctions, nuclear weapons and relationships between churches (particularly our own denominations and the Orthodox churches of Russia and Ukraine), together with an overview of the causes and costs of war.

https://jpit.uk/issues/peacemaking/ukraine

‘This is a world desperate for a new story yet running out of time to write it.”

Global military spending is now over $2 trillion and continues to rise at an alarming rate. Despite loose commitments to disarmament, the nine nuclear-armed states continue to fortify and increase their nuclear arsenals and show no signs of stopping. The Doomsday Clock puts the world at 90 seconds to midnight – closer to nuclear catastrophe than ever before.

After the failure of the UN Security Council to prevent the ongoing warfare in Ukraine and elsewhere, Hannah gives a summary of how the United Nations is proposing a new strategy for peace in the wake of a changing geopolitical climate.

https://jpit.uk/conflict-prevention-and-a-new-agenda-for-peace

Season of Creation 1st September to 4th October

The Season of Creation runs from 1st September to October 4th, the feast day of St Francis of Assisi. The theme for this year is ‘let justice and peace flow’. In planning for this time in our churches you might like to take inspiration from St Francis himself. Recently the National Gallery in London held an exhibition of artwork exploring the life of St Francis. 

St Francis is well known for his love of nature and the entrance was flanked by an impressive large ‘green’ living wall. Once inside, there was a large painting of St Francis, in the Italian countryside, to contemplate, before going on to look at a collection of smaller artworks. The ones that stood out for me were – a painting by Zurbaran of St Francis in his monk’s habit, in prayer; a slightly comical painting, by Spencer, of St Francis in a farmyard surrounded by ducks and chickens; and a woodcut by Buttner showing Francis outdoors preaching to a flock of birds. 

In all, the exhibition illustrated St Francis’ commitment to a life of poverty, to promoting social justice and peace, and also to the care for the environment. Indeed Pope Francis is quoted as saying ‘the message of St Francis is remarkably timely in our own day’. So perhaps a useful starter for a service or event during creation time. 

For more information about the Season see Season of Creation
If you are holding any special services or events during this Season do let the Green Team know (email me on jillnug@hotmail.com or any other member of the Team).

Jill Nugent [United Reformed Church (URC) Thames North Synod Green Apostle]

Resources and materials produced by the churches and other groups are also available at the Churches Together in Britain & Ireland website https://ctbi.org.uk/season-of-creation-2023/

Luton Friends of the Earth Petition for Warm Homes and Reduced Emissions

I’m writing to ask if you would be kind enough to sign the attached Luton Friends of the Earth petition, and – in addition – if you could ask members of your organisation to also sign. 

I feel strongly about this petition.  Here in Luton, this winter people will be choosing between food and heating.  This simply must not be allowed to happen.  Thankfully, there are long-lasting solutions to cut our bills, keep our homes warm and reduce carbon emissions, and that’s what the petition is about. 

Here’s the link, where you can read more about Friends of the Earth’s demands. 

https://actionnetwork.org/petitions/ask-luton-mps-to-take-action-for-warm-homes 

It would be marvellous if you could help to boost the number of signatures by asking all the people in your organisation to sign this petition.  Perhaps you could also ask your friends and family if they could sign too? 

If you want to read even more about the campaign, then there is a dedicated website where you can find out the detail about what’s happening: 

https://unitedforwarmhomes.uk 

Thank you so much for your interest and support. 

Best wishes, 

Janet Brown

Member, Luton Friends of the Earth 

Luton’s Muslim leaders and Mosques unequivocally condemn attack on Churches in Pakistan

We are shocked and extremely saddened at the recent reports of the attacks on churches in the Punjab Province of Pakistan. 

Muslim leaders, Mosques, and Inspire FM Radio in Luton, unequivocally condemned the actions of the mob and those who instigated them.

The Luton Council of Faiths Chair Prof Zafar Khan said, ‘These attacks stand out as an offence against God and humankind.”

“Any attack on a place of worship is an attack on all.  Hatred targeting any community because of its faith and belief is a scourge that mustn’t be and cannot be tolerated.”

In a letter to the UK High Commission of Pakistan, Prof Zafar Khan urged the Government of Pakistan to take strong and firm action against those responsible for these acts of violence and ensure the safety and well-being of not only Christians but all religious minorities in Pakistan.

In a statement, denouncing the heinous attacks on Churches in Pakistan, the Masjid-e- President Ali Syed Rahat Gilani said, “As Muslims, we firmly uphold the principle of equal rights for all, regardless of creed, faith, belief or religion.”

He too called upon the Pakistani Government to take action against those responsible for these appalling and un-Islamic deeds and said, “In this time of adversity, we stand in solidarity with our Christian brothers, sisters, and their families.”

In his Friday Sermon at Luton’s Jamia Islamia Ghousia Mosque, Allama Qazi Abdul Aziz Chishti MBE called it a deplorable incident that goes against the Islamic principles and teachings of peace, harmony, and coexistence among all religions. He said, “Islam teaches its followers to respect and honour religious and cultural diversity”.

He too urged the Pakistan government to take immediate action against the perpetrators and called for strict measures to prevent any form of religious intolerance and violence in the future.

He emphasised, “Our Christian brothers and sisters, just like any other religious community, have the right to live and practice their faith freely within the wider Pakistani community. Their rights and freedoms must be protected, ensuring that they can flourish alongside their fellow citizens.”

“We stand united with our Christian brothers and sisters, reaffirming our commitment to living in peace and harmony with one another and creating an inclusive society for all.”

The World Council of Churches and other international bodies have also condemned these attacks. Their statements can be read on the following links.

https://www.oikoumene.org/news/church-leaders-in-pakistan-call-for-international-solidarity-to-bring-justice

https://www.oikoumene.org/news/wcc-condemns-attacks-against-churches-in-pakistan

https://www.cca.org.hk/news/cca-strongly-condemns-violence-against-christian-homes-and-churches-jaranwala-pakistan-0

“May we all work together to build a society based on tolerance, acceptance, and unity”, stated Allama Qazi Abdul Aziz Chishti MBE in his Friday Sermon at Luton’s Jamia Islamia Ghousia Mosque

Luton’s faith leaders discuss the initiative ‘Protect All Spiritual Scriptures’ (PASS)

A spate of Quran burning in Sweden, and Denmark and the rise of Finland’s far-right party True Finns has highlighted how globally, there appears to be a growing intolerance of both immigrants and Islam, particularly in the right-wing political discourses.

Majoritarianism backed by nationalism is becoming a threat to minorities everywhere globally. 

It is therefore worth reviewing how and why the sacredness of freedom of speech of few, has come to take precedence over the sanctity of human dignity and the sacredness of religious texts. How and why the freedom of speech is allowed to propagate hate and desecrate what is held sacred and revered by millions & billions around the world?

At a meeting held recently at Central Mosque, Luton Council, Councilors, and different faith leaders discussed the initiative to ‘Protect All Spiritual Scriptures’ (PASS).

The meeting acknowledged that the deliberate burning of any sacred Scripture is an egregious violation of human rights, freedom of religion, and fundamental principles for the diversity of faiths. We live in an interconnected world. It is essential that we work collectively to foster an environment of understanding and mutual respect for all religious and non-religious, beliefs and values.

The meeting requested Luton Council of Faiths (LCoF) write to the UK’s Prime Minister and to the Deputy Secretary General of the UN, to appeal for immediate action in response to the burning of the Holy Scriptures, an act that strikes at the core of religious tolerance, respect, and compassion.

“We were moved and humbled by the presence of so many different faith leaders who had given at a very short notice, their valuable time, presence, and input which is highly appreciated and very encouraging”, stated Ifraz Iqbal, General Secretary of Luton Central Mosque. “This meeting has certainly fostered interfaith dialogue, and strengthened community bonds.”

There is a need for robust international laws and treaties to prevent acts of religious desecration and to safeguard the rights and beliefs of religious communities worldwide.

LCoF Chair Prof Zafar Khan stated, “We are a town where the majority of people have faith, and those of no faith also want the best for our town. Let nothing distract us from walking together in solidarity and in mutual respect for one another.”

Joined by the Luton Council and Councillors, Luton’s faith leaders discussed the initiative ‘Protect All Spiritual Scriptures’ (PASS). They called for laws to prevent acts of religious desecration and to safeguard the beliefs of religious communities worldwide.

Joined by the Luton Council and Councillors, Luton’s faith leaders discussed the initiative ‘Protect All Spiritual Scriptures’ (PASS). They called for laws to prevent acts of religious desecration and to safeguard the beliefs of religious communities worldwide.

Joined by the Luton Council and Councillors, Luton’s faith leaders discussed the initiative ‘Protect All Spiritual Scriptures’ (PASS). They called for laws to prevent acts of religious desecration and to safeguard the beliefs of religious communities worldwide.

Newland Church is born as ‘one church on two sites’ in Luton & Dunstable

Following the amalgamation of 5 United Reformed Churches (URCs), which include Bury Park URC, St Ninians URC, Edward Street URC, St Katherine of Genoa URC, and Wigmore Church, a new Church by the name Newland Church is born as ‘one church on two sites’. These two sites are in Crawley Green Road (Wigmore) Luton & Katherine Drive Dunstable.

At a recently held special inaugural service of commitment and commissioning of the Newland Church, Janette Canon, former Secretary at Bury Park URC shared a reflection saying;

“The world suffered much throughout the pandemic - and churches were not exempt from that. Our 5 different United Reformed Churches (URCs) came through, but we had lost so much in so many ways – friends, members, confidence, and skills. We were suddenly a little more vulnerable and fewer in number. We recognised that the care and upkeep of the Church buildings was becoming too much. Wouldn’t we be stronger together, we thought.”

“This followed much discussion, much doubt, much heart-seeking, and in the end, we knew we would enjoy being together in worship and fellowship, but letting go of all we held dear in our individual places of worship, with all the associated memories, would be no easy task.”

“Nevertheless, a vision was presented – one church on two sites – an exciting prospect, but a huge challenge. How it will all work, but the decision was taken to wrestle with the practicalities and step forward in faith to a new, unknown future.”

“Groups met to consider constitutions, finance, and property matters. Reports were compiled, recommendations presented, doubts and difficulties tackled if not immediately resolved.” 

Finally, in January this year, with an overwhelming majority all 5 Churches voted to step forward together in faith towards an exciting new future of one church on two sites.

Revd Heather Whyte, the local URC Minister said, “There are still many things to resolve, but we celebrate a new beginning – the inauguration of Newland Church. Together in love and faith, we shall now set forth in our journeying forward. We will build new relationships and will learn how to be Church in this time and place. We will offer the communities in which we live an expression of love and belonging, and welcome all into our fellowship as we seek to grow in faith.”

Heartiest Congratulations to the Newland Church!

Following the amalgamation of the five different United Reformed Churches (URCs), its representatives hold a unifying ribbon at the inaugural service of the Newland Church. It will be one Church on two sites in Luton, and in Dunstable.

Following the amalgamation of the five different United Reformed Churches (URCs), its members hold a unifying ribbon at the inaugural service of the Newland Church. It will be one Church on two sites in Luton, and in Dunstable.

St Ninians URC (United Reformed Church) Luton held its final service

Founded in 1941, St Ninians URC (United Reformed Church) on Villa Road in Luton, recently held its final worship service.  It is one of the five United Reformed Churches in Luton & Dunstable which are amalgamating into one church, Newland URC, with two buildings, one in Dunstable and one in Luton.

St. Ninian, after whom St Ninians URC is named in Luton, is first mentioned in the 8th century as being an early missionary among the northern Britons and the Pictish peoples of what is now Scotland. Hence, the foundations of St Ninians URC were laid in 1941, due to the large number of Scots who had arrived to work in Luton including many Doctors and Welfare Officers at the principal factories. By 1947, regular Church Services had started to take place at the present site, and soon it became a hive of social activities such as Tuesday Fellowship Group, Scouts, Cubs, Guides, Brownies, Bazaars, Women’s Guild, Drama Society, Play Groups etc.

The present Church building was designed by Mr Gordon Jackson, who emphasised simplicity in his building designs, getting away from Gothic designs. “But the Church is not just a building; it is the people who worship there”, said Rona Harvey, St Ninians URC member since 1948.  She said, “When I came from Scotland, the people in Church were my family. It was a warm, welcoming place full of people who spoke in a familiar accent, wore a kilt on Sundays and made lovely scones. Over the years, many families have played their part in keeping the Church alive, by baptising, confirming and marrying their children here; this fellowship of people is the real Church to which we all belong. I look forward to continuing that fellowship with a new family at Newland Church.”

Ann Burgoyne, another longstanding Church member said, “St Ninians has seen many changes over its lifetime of 82 years. We give thanks for our ministers’ hard work, encouragement, and leadership. Today we are celebrating what has gone before and saying goodbye to our building but not goodbye to our Church. For the Church is not the building, the church is the people who come to worship and share fellowship. We will still be church together; we will just meet somewhere new, alongside all our friends old and new from all the other URC Churches in Luton and Dunstable.”

Reinforcing the above sentiments, Revd George Watt, Moderator of URC Thames North Synod said, “As we meet today we celebrate that this is a place where people have been able to find God, where faith has come alive and grown. We often speak of our churches as being God’s buildings, but God has a vision that his building will be people rather something made of bricks and stone. You are God’s building. And so as you look to the future, remember that God is not confined or defined by this building, as significant as it may have been to many. We are called to go and be God’s building as living stones, in our workplaces, in our schools, in our families and in our leisure activities. We are not called to be rooted in one place, but we are sometimes called to pull up our tent pegs and move on in our pilgrimage.”

Revd Heather Whyte, the URC Minister in Luton & Dunstable invited all to the Newland Church Inaugural Service to be held at Wigmore Community Church, Crawley Green Road, Luton LU2 9JB on Sunday 30th July 3pm. ALL ARE WELCOME.

Revd Heather said, “We are looking forward to exploring new ideas together and growing together, and following the way of Jesus as a model for our lives. We are an open fellowship and welcome anyone as we ASK questions of faith, and what it means to follow the teachings of Jesus in today's world. Together we wish to spread a message of peace, justice and compassion to all.”

Bury Park URC (United Reformed Church) Luton hosts its final service after 120 years of worship

Natalie Cummings of Luton Today reported;

Bury Park URC Luton hosts its final service after 120 years of worship | Five URCs (United Reformed Churches) in Luton & Dunstable to merge and share two buildings

Two Luton church buildings are closing their doors after over 120 years of worship and service.

Bury Park United Reformed Church (URC) and St Ninian's Church will merge with other United Reformed Churches on July 30.

The five United Reformed Churches – Bury Park URC, Edward Street URC, St Katherine of Genoa URC, St Ninians URC and Wigmore Church (URC and Methodist) – will amalgamate into one church. This new church will be based in the former Wigmore Church building on Crawley Green Road in Luton, and the former St Katherine of Genoa URC Building on Katherine Drive in Dunstable.

Bury Park URC was originally founded in 1895, and St. Ninian's was established in the early 1940s in a room above a milk bar in Bute Street, before moving to Villa Road, Luton. Both buildings will eventually be sold by the United Reformed Church.

St. Ninian's final service will be on Sunday, July 23 at 3pm. Previous members and friends are encouraged to attend.

On Sunday (July 9), the Bury Park church invited past and present members, clergy, and friends to join a final service of thanksgiving. At the service, John Williams (treasurer and elder), and Janette Cannon (secretary and elder), shared a brief overview of the church, while Revd Heather Whyte led the service.

Revd Whyte said: “As you might expect there was sadness that this would be the last act of worship held in the building which has been the home of Bury Park Congregational and then United Reformed Church but there was also joy as many old friends and members gathered together to celebrate and share memories and because there is a future together in Newland Church.”

She added: “Amalgamation is when two or more churches agree to combine and become a new church. There is a sharing of resources and new focus to their life together. The five churches have spent a year exploring what it would be like to be one church with two buildings serving two communities. Many of the activities which already happen in the two buildings to be used will continue but new activities will also be explored.

"The church will be a place of welcome to anyone who wants to share with us as we ask questions of our faith and what it means today to follow the teachings of Jesus, seeking answers that are relevant to the twenty-first century and which encourage our message of peace, justice and compassion for all.”

Revd George Watt, Moderator of URC Thames North Synod, also preached on the theme of ‘Unity in the Body of Christ’ at the service.

He concluded by saying "On the closing of this church, let us give thanks for over 120 years of worship and service, but let us commit ourselves to grow together, grow in our gifts and grow in faith as we look forward to the future."

Revd George Watt, Moderator of URC Thames North Synod, addressing the Bury Park URC Luton at its final service on Sunday 9th Jul’23

NUNCIO to Great Britain, Archbishop Miguel Maury Buendía visited Luton

NUNCIO to Great Britain, Archbishop Miguel Maury Buendía, recently visited Luton, which is part of Luton and Dunstable Deanery of The Roman Catholic Diocese of Northampton.  

Explaining Nuncio’s role, Monsignor Kevin McGinnell VF of Holy Ghost Catholic Parish said Nuncio is a Vatican representative, accredited as an ambassador that maintains official diplomatic relations, promotes good relations between the government and the government of the Roman Catholic Church led by the Pope. Nuncio observes and reports to the Pope on the life of the Roman Catholic Church in the region.

The Mayor, Cllr Mohammed Yaqub Hanif warmly welcomed the Nuncio to Luton.

Several other faith and community representatives gave brief presentations on the work undertaken by them in the super-diverse town of Luton. It included the Chairs of the Luton Council of Faiths, Churches Together in Luton, and the CEOs of Noah, Chums, Luton Irish Form, and Grassroots.

Representatives from the Luton Deans Group, Cardinal Newman School, Kenyan Catholic Women's Association, and the DHS (Daughters of the Holy Spirit) as deanery religious were also present.

Archbishop Miguel presented himself as being the eyes and ears of the Pope. He showed keen interest in listening to people’s hopes and aspirations for a better world and understood the life and engagement of the Catholic Church and Faith in the town. He also visited Asylum Seekers & Refugee Support Project at All Saints Anglican Church and Central Mosque.

Born in Madrid, Archbishop Miguel has served in Pope’s diplomatic missions in several countries such as Rwanda, Uganda, Morocco, Nicaragua, Egypt, Slovenia, and Ireland. He also served as Apostolic Nuncio to Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Romania & Moldova.

Acknowledging his extensive experience, the Chair of the Luton Council of Faiths, Prof Zafar Khan invited the Archbishop to visit Luton again. He commended the Pope and the Catholic Church for demonstrating their solidarity in the face of any attack or assault on a religious group.  

Applauding Pope’s encyclical Laudato Si on caring for our common home — planet Earth, Sr Maire Hayes presented Archbishop with a book by Luton author Jeremy Williams – Climate Change Is Racist: Race, Privilege and the Struggle for Climate Justice.

Archbishop Miguel responded saying we must respect and love one another and in doing so, we must together become a beacon of hope for justice, peace, and reconciliation in our world.

NUNCIO to Great Britain, Archbishop Miguel Maury Buendía being welcomed by Monsignor Kevin McGinnell VF at Holy Ghost Catholic Parish Church, Westbourne Road, Luton on 7th July 2023.

The Mayor of Luton Cllr Mohammed Yaqub Hanif warmly welcomed the Nuncio to Luton.

Applauding Pope’s encyclical Laudato Si on caring for our common home — planet Earth, Sr Maire Hayes presented Archbishop with a book by Luton author Jeremy Williams – Climate Change Is Racist: Race, Privilege and the Struggle for Climate Justice.

Tony Thompson, the Chair of Churches Together in Luton addressing NUNCIO to Great Britain, Archbishop Miguel Maury Buendía

CEO of Noah Enterprise Luton David Morris addressing NUNCIO to Great Britain, Archbishop Miguel Maury Buendía

Janepher Frazao of Kenyan Catholic Women's Association addressing NUNCIO to Great Britain, Archbishop Miguel Maury Buendía

From L to R: Monsignor Kevin McGinnell VF of Holy Ghost Catholic Parish Church, NUNCIO to Great Britain, Archbishop Miguel Maury Buendía, The Mayor of Luton Cllr Mohammed Yaqub Hanif, Chair of Luton Council of Faiths, Prof Zafar Khan

Colors of Eid Festival – A free family outdoor extravaganza held in Luton Market Hill

In Luton, Eid-al-Adha was celebrated a fortnight ago with thousands of people coming out to enjoy affordable fun fair rides and plenty of family entertainment for all ages at Lewsey Farm Inspire Eid Festival– presented by Inspire FM and 1Eid festival celebrations in Wardown Park and Stockwood Park.

Last weekend on 8th July 2023, another Colors of Eid Festival, an outdoor extravaganza event was held at Luton Town Centre Market Hill, with lots of traditional music, poetry, and singing. All faiths and communities were welcomed to try the delights of locally made traditional food and sweet treats and get a traditional mehndi (henna) design and enjoy the costume display. An opening procession from the Town Hall to the Market Hill Stage was led by Luton’s traditional Desi Bhangra Dhol Drummers, Dhols Royce.

Colors of Eid Festival was organised by Sarah Salim, a British-Pakistani visual artist, and founding director of ALIF New Beginnings, an arts organisation that aims to celebrate and promote Islamic arts and culture across all art disciplines.

In 2022, Sarah worked with the UKCCA (UK Centre for Carnival Arts) based in Luton, to create Luton’s first Eid parade performance. She said this year we have tried to grow it to the next stage and so we put together stage performances, free of charge, including Qawwali (a form of Sufi Islamic devotional singing) and performances from children groups and by inspirational speakers like Dr. Nazia Khan OBE DL, Chair of the United Nations Association, Luton Branch and the champion of human rights, education, and equalities. She spoke of the importance of multi-agency involvement and alliances for sustainable community engagement, development, and cohesion in our super-diverse town Luton.

Eid al-Adha is known as the ‘festival of sacrifice’. It commemorates the prophet Ibrahim’s devotion to God. To honour God’s commandment, Ibrahim (also known as Abraham in Judaism & Christianity), was prepared to sacrifice even his son, Ismail. Miraculously, God replaced Ismail with a lamb to sacrifice instead. Muslims therefore worldwide celebrate the festival by carrying out a ‘Qurbani’ (Arabic word) meaning “sacrifice”, which typically means donating two-thirds of the festivities to the poor or vulnerable people, and only one-third kept for family use.

It is the second largest and most significant religious festival celebrated by millions of Muslims, around the world. It also coincides with the completion of Hajj, the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, in Saudi Arabia, which all able-bodied Muslim adults are expected to accomplish at least once in their lifetimes.

Sarah Salim (L), a British-Pakistani visual artist was the key organiser of the Colors of Eid Festival in Luton held on Sat 8th July 2023 at Luton Market Hill.

Daf Zikir Drums delivered a spectacular performance using a middle-eastern frame drum called ‘Daf’ setting the scene for storytelling by Rumi’s Cave, a community arts organisation inspired by the legacy of 13th-century Persian poet & mystic Jalauddin Rumi.

Luton-based Calligraphy artist Abu Yahya created an original piece live on stage exclusively for the Colours of Eid Festival on 8th Jul’23 in Luton Market Hill. Abu is a contemporary artist whose practice crosses Islamic calligraphy traditions with painting and sculpture. He uses wisdom or writers, poets, and philosophers from around the world to convey messages of peace and to underline the commonalities of human existence.

‘The Pakistani Truck Art’ was displayed on mobility scooters that also featured in Luton International Carnival 2023. All showcasing the creativity of Islamic culture and celebrating the community of Luton! These were included in The Act of Kindness Parade that left from the Town Hall making its way up George St to Market Hill, as part of Colours of Eid Festival held in Luton.

Near Neighbours Luton CATALYST Alumni train as Mental Health Champions

The topic of mental health has been discussed far and wide, especially in relation to the lasting effects of the coronavirus pandemic on young people.

After completing Near Neighbors CATALYST Youth Leadership Training in Luton, a few young people from Christian, Muslim, Sikh, Buddhist, and no faith backgrounds followed it up with a 2-day Mental Health First Aid training programme. This was funded by Near Neighbours and co-delivered by Grassroots, Luton Council of Faiths, Feast Programme and CYCD (Centre for Youth & Community Development) in Luton.

A few community workers and leaders also benefited from this training on mental health and leadership development.

A participant remarked, "It was a specialist training to improve our understanding of mental health issues and how to identify, understand and help someone who may be affected by it. Additionally, we now know how to use HeartMath to promote personal resilience, boost positive wellbeing, and tackle stigma related to mental health.”

A community worker at The Feast youth engagement programme said, “Being on the same learning level as young people has been quite enlightening. It was a good idea to have a cross-generational discussion.”

Trainers Rosalind Paul and Ryad Khodabocus said, “We are confident this training will significantly improve the lives of young people in Luton. With the current climate we find our communities in – it has never been more important to educate ourselves on how best to support those around us with mental health-related issues and how to self-care and grow stronger and resilient as we serve others.”  

The training course covered key topics such as suicide, self-harm, PTSD (Post-traumatic stress disorder), phobias, anxiety and depression. It also discussed how to spot signs of these issues and how best to support individuals suffering from any of these.

In a statement, Luton’s Near Neighbours Programme remarked, “The ongoing climate change, refugee and cost of living crises have caused extreme economic & social disadvantages in our world today. These have also increased the difficulties with mental health. Therefore, it is critical to provide training opportunities like these to strengthen our shared relationship and obligation to one another. Each of us may contribute in some way, particularly if we have prepared ourselves by participating in training programmes like these.”

Young people from different and no faith backgrounds participated in a 2-day Mental Health & Fitness training programme funded by Near Neighbours as part of its youth leadership development initiative called CATALYST.

Young people from different and no faith backgrounds participated in a 2-day Mental Health & Fitness training programme funded by Near Neighbours as part of its youth leadership development initiative called CATALYST.

75 years of Windrush Generation commemorated across the Country

The 75th anniversary of the Windrush Generation was marked last week with several events across Britain including a national commemoration service at Southwark Cathedral, the King attending an event for young people at St George’s Chapel, Windsor, United Luton Caribbean & African Committee (ULCAC) holding its 4th Annual Civic Ceremony at Luton Town Hall and Pastors Llyod Denny and Vincent Cox conducting special Windrush services in the honour of Luton Windrush generation.

HMT Empire Windrush arrived at Tilbury Docks in Essex on June 22, 1948, bringing nearly 500 people from the Caribbean. They were the first of thousands encouraged to migrate and help fill labour shortages in the armed forces, transport, other industries and NHS. 

HM King Charles hailed the Windrush generation’s “immeasurable” impact and “profound and permanent contribution to British life”.

HM’s representative Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire Susan Lousada said, “The Windrush generation kept much of our transport system and our NHS functioning and became pivotal in areas of commerce, education, manufacturing, science, engineering and sports. It is my honour to pay tribute to the Windrush generation and their descendants and to thank them all for what they have done for our country.”

The Mayor of Luton, Cllr. Mohammed Yaqub Hanif said, “The Windrush generation experiences of racism and discrimination resonate with the experiences of his parents and many other migrant communities' experiences too," but applauding the Windrush Generation contributions to Luton's Vauxhall Motors, Electrolux, L & D Hospital, and the railways, he said, "You are all loved, appreciated, and valued."

Sadly, Lord Kitchener's 1951 migrant anthem, "London is the Place for Me," still captures the feelings of numerous unnamed persons arriving on unnamed boats today as they flee repressive regimes, wars, and conflicts only to discover that they are not wanted or welcomed. And many of those unscrupulously trafficked, never make it because their dreams and bodies are drowned on the way.

We pray that the 75th anniversary of the Windrush Generation will inspire us to stand up for justice, peace, equity and dignity for all human beings, who are created in God’s image. We must honour the Windrush generation’s resilience and determination and hold light to their experiences to strengthen our communities and build a flourishing future for all.

Luton’s oldest Windrush Generation member, 103 years old Rose Allen joined by Mayor of Luton, Beds Police Crime Commissioner, Bishop of Bedford, and Pas Vincent Cox, at a special Windrush Civic Service held last Sunday at St Mary’s

Refugee Week 2023 Theme: Compassion

For Refugee Week’s 25th anniversary we are all invited to celebrate what compassion looks like in action. Together we can create a shared understanding of compassion to ensure we are extending it widely to all.

“Our task must be to free ourselves – by widening our circles of compassion to embrace all living creatures and the whole of nature in its beauty.”- Albert Einstein

https://refugeeweek.org.uk/theme-of-refugee-week-2023-compassion/

Refugee Week 2023 is 19–25 June, join in!

#RefugeeWeek
#CompassionIntoAction
#SimpleActs
Everyone is welcome to use this year’s poster, you can access it via a free social media pack.

You can read more about this year’s brilliant Compassion by Murugiah on the blog!

For updates, sign up for the Refugee Week newsletter, and join on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

It's been a busy week and Luton CoS (City of Sanctuary) has had representatives at a number of events - school assemblies, Healing Classrooms Conference, Red Cross stall at the Mall in Luton (see picture) and at Pride in Luton event.

Luton Turk Fest 2023 held in Stockwood Park

Hundreds of people flocked to Stockwood Park last weekend for the largest Luton Turk Fest 2023 ever held by the Luton Turkish Community Association. Over 200 volunteers helped coordinate various arrangements at this fantastic family-friendly event. People travelled long distances to be part of this large outdoor extravaganza.

More than a dozen members of the Ottoman Marching Band from Istanbul were funded by Turkish Airlines and flown into Luton to dazzle and entertain the crowds. Children from the Turkish Language School performed excellent stage performances. People could take selfies with men and women costumed as cultural relics in a tent.

There were long queues for the freshly baked Turkish treats & delicacies, ‘Gozleme’ – the spinach and cheese stuffed flatbread, and ‘Manti’ – tiny lamb-stuffed dumplings topped with sauces. These were sold to raise funds for the Luton Turkish Community Association.

Turkey is known for its vivacious culture – colourful attire, lively music and dancing, exquisite handicrafts and jewellery, and amazing food. People were able to enjoy the flavour of it all at the Luton Turk Fest.

Atilla Ustun, Executive Chairman of Luton Turkish Community Association said, “We are glad that we could offer this experience after a three-year absence due to the coronavirus pandemic.” The Chair of one of the Key Sponsors Luton Rising, Cllr. Javeria Hussain, Lord Qurban Hussain, and Luton Cllrs. Mahmood Hussain & Dave Taylor were also invited. In remembrance of the suffering brought on by wars and conflicts around the world, Atilla invited The Turkish Ambassador to the UK, His Excellency Osman Koray Ertaş to join together in an act of solidarity and fly doves for world peace.

Atilla thanked Luton’s diverse communities for their tremendous support and outstanding assistance after one of the worst earthquakes ever to strike areas of Turkey and Syria earlier in the year. He said, “Luton sent over 500 tonnes of aid, which is incredible for a town of our size.”

Talking about the Luton Turkish Community Centre, Atilla said, “Although it is a small premises, it is always full and buzzing with people and different activities. There are nearly 300 Turkish families in Luton at present but hit by the cost of living crisis, more are drawn to Luton from expensive parts of the UK.”

L to R: The Turkish Ambassador HE Osman Koray Ertaş, Luton Rising Chair, Cllr Javeria Hussain, and Luton Turkish Community Chairman Mr Atilla Ustun with Ottoman Marching Band from Istanbul at Luton Turk Fest held last weekend at Stockwood Park.

Deputy Lieutenants of the Bedfordshire Lieutenancy visited Luton's different places of worship

The Bedfordshire Lieutenancy is one of the 98 Lieutenancies in England. Each Lieutenancy is headed by a Lord-Lieutenant, appointed by The King and is His Majesty’s representative in their county (or Lieutenancy area). The role of Lord-Lieutenant is voluntary and apolitical. It’s duties are broadly to arrange visits by members of the Royal family and to escort Royal visitors, present medals, awards and honours on behalf of His Majesty, support and liaise with local units of the armed forces and cadet forces, and promote and support local communities and voluntary groups.

Susan Lousada was appointed as HM Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire in September 2022. Soon after her appointment, she visited Luton's different faith communities and places of worship, accompanied by the Bishop of Bedford Rt. Revd. Richard Atkinson.

“It was a really positive experience which I found very rewarding and informative” she said.

She has now supported Bishop Richard’s initiative to extend this opportunity to the wider Lieutenancy.

Bishop Richard arranged for the Deputy Lieutenants, to visit the Central Mosque and Guru Nanak Gurudwara during the last fortnight. He will arrange future visits to other places of worship too.

The Deputy Lieutenants enjoyed their visits and said, “Our hosts were so welcoming and so very generous with their time and patient in their explanations. We learnt a great deal.”

They asked numerous questions at the places of worship and reflected upon how to respect other practices without compromising what may be different beliefs to their own. Bishop Richard emphasised that visiting different places of worship is not just educational; it also helps us all to remain connected with one another. He said, “There is no substitute for being within the art and architecture of different places of worship, experiencing the quiet and spaciousness, and feeling the community.”

HM Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire Susan Lousada said “Bedfordshire is a wonderfully diverse county, and it is very important to me that those of all beliefs, and indeed those with none, feel respected and welcome. I am so grateful to Bishop Richard and Johny at Grassroots for giving the Bedfordshire Lieutenancy the opportunity to meet some of our local faith leaders. I am also deeply appreciative to those leaders and faith communities for welcoming us all so warmly.” 

Thanking GRASSROOTS for its contributions, Dr Nazia Khanum, OBE, DL said, “David and I were impressed with your comprehensive and evidence-based presentation of your work and your energetic activities in Luton. Keep up the good work. There aren’t very many genuine players on the field!!”

“May your efforts continue to grow further in promoting better understanding, respect, and a human bond of dignity and fellowship across diverse faiths, beliefs, and secular existences.” 

Accompanied by the Bishop of Bedford Right Reverend Richard Atkinson, HM Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire Susan Lousada and the Deputy Lieutenants of the Bedfordshire Lieutenancy visited Luton's different places of worship, including Luton’s Central Mosque.

Accompanied by the Bishop of Bedford Right Reverend Richard Atkinson, HM Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire Susan Lousada and the Deputy Lieutenants of the Bedfordshire Lieutenancy visited Luton's different places of worship, including Luton’s Guru Nanak Gurudwara.

Statement on attacks in Nottingham

Nottingham: Three killed, three injured in city centre attacks

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/live/uk-england-nottinghamshire-65888114

Nottingham: Students among three killed in knife and van attacks

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-nottinghamshire-65893694

The attacks in Nottingham, in which three people have been killed and at least three others have been injured, is shocking for everyone.

Prof Zafar Khan, Chair of the Luton Council of Faiths said, “We are deeply saddened at this heartbreaking incident. We have consistently and vehemently denounced any acts of violence that have such tragic results and violate the sacredness of human life.”  

“We offer our sincere sympathies to everyone who lost a loved one in this heinous crime and act of cowardice.”

Luton’s faith communities stand together in solidarity with people in Nottingham and with those bereaved by the untimely loss of their loved ones.

Red Canon David Lawson, Chair of the GRASSROOTS Programme said, “We send a clear message of defiance to those attempting to undermine the stability and integrity of any part of the country, and urge the authorities that the perpetrators are caught and brought to justice.”

We light a candle of HOPE for a better world.

Windrush Celebrating the 75th anniversary

National Windrush Day on 22 June 2023 will mark the 75th anniversary of the arrival of the passengers of the Empire Windrush to the UK. The day celebrates the contribution and achievements of the Windrush generation and their descendants who arrived in Britain on 22 June 1948.

Please join in all or any of the following events taking place in Luton;

Thursday 22nd June 12 pm - 2 pm

Flag Raising Ceremony at Luton Town Hall Footsteps, George Street, Luton LU1 2BQ

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Saturday 24th June 3 pm - 7pm

Windrush Civic Reception at Council Chambers, Town Hall, George Street, Luton LU1 2BQ

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Sunday 25th June 1:30 pm

75th Windrush Anniversary Service by the New Testament Church of God Luton

At St Mary’s Church, Church Street, Luton LU1 3LF

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You can also Join the Windrush 75 network and help in making this a year of national celebrations of our shared history.

The Windrush 75 Network brings together everyone who is committed to making Windrush 75 a major national theme for 2023. It’s a chance to mark this milestone in our history and spark a wider conversation about the past, present, and future of our multi-ethnic society.

C of E All Saints Church Luton commemorated its Centenary Celebrations

Luton All Saints Church of England (C of E) held a special service commemorating its centenary celebrations. Serving and touching people’s lives for 100 years is a tremendous achievement and a significant milestone.

Many of the past and present Vicars and church members joined in this service. This included Revd Jemima Prasadam who spoke movingly about her experiences of building relationships with Muslim communities many years ago when she was the Vicar at All Saints. “Those relationships are still there”, she said, pointing to Muslim friends who had come to see her. 

A Church member Jenny Lyans spoke of All Saints being her home where she has always been loved, she has felt safe, and a place where she has made amazing memories. She said, “I am proud to see my church still serving the community. The world may have changed but the love, care, and compassion given by those serving here remain the same and I am confident this will continue in the years to come.”

Mr Chris Davidson, Headteacher of Beech Hill Primary School, said a member of staff who has worked at the school for over 20 years could not remember a time when the school and the church had not worked closely together. He acknowledged the role played by the church Vicar Revd Canon David Kesterton, not only in sharing Christian beliefs and the features and symbols of a church with the school pupils but also strengthening the links between people of different faiths and beliefs in the neighbourhood.  

He said, “The Church has definitely served its community. The school, its staff, children and I are always in the thoughts and prayers of the All Saints Church congregation and this personally gives me great comfort.”

Words of a great hymn sung at the service were so precise in expressing the sentiments of the Church:

“Lord, for the years your love has kept and guided, urged and inspired us, cheered us on our way,

sought us and saved us, pardoned and provided: Lord of the years, we bring our thanks today.”

Congratulations to All Saints Church! May it become in the years to come, a beacon of hope and healing, of joy and of abundance, of reconciliation and of peace-making.

At its Centenary Celebrations, the past and present Vicars of C of E All Saints Church Luton were joined by The Rt Revd Dr. Alan Gregory Clayton Smith, the Lord Bishop of St Albans, and also by the members of different faiths and ministers of different church denominations.

Hatters promoted to the Premier League after a nail-biting victory in Wembley on Sat 27th May 2023

What a game! Luton fans left Wembley proudly orange on Saturday night. And as Lutonians woke up on Sunday, it was a new sunrise for the town.

It was One Town, One Family & One Dream at Wembley on Saturday. Over 36,500 Luton Town fans walked to the Wembley Stadium, passionately singing, and chanting to watch the historic, thrilling, exciting, and nail-biting match in which Hatters were eventually promoted to the Premier League.

Never ever a town deserved this more!

“Tensions had turned into elation as the Hatters were victorious in a penalty shoot-out win”, stated Laura Hutchinson, a news reporter for Luton Today. Another reporter Mike Simmonds reported “Hatters fans are smiling again after coming through the 'dark times' to reach the Premier League. The town will play top-flight football next season.”

But we shouldn’t pretend it’s all about football alone. It is also about people from diverse ethnic, religious, and cultural backgrounds coming together – hugging, cheering, dancing, singing, and exchanging those amazingly alive smiles and acknowledging looks with one another in the stadium, in the trains, in the buses, and in the streets of Wembley and Luton Town. We are Luton!

“This is a dialogue in action. It promotes stronger ties amongst people from diverse backgrounds. It challenges the fear & hostility fostered in the present global political climate,” stated GRASSROOTS Chair Revd Canon David Lawson.

Luton Council of Faiths (LCoF) Chair Prof Zafar Khan said, “It communicates a message of hope and the prospect of living side by side as friends, despite our prejudices and misunderstandings, which are also part of life in an ever-evolving multi-cultural multi-ethnic Britain and Luton.”

He added, “Luton can pride itself as a super diverse town. It is one big community of several diverse communities. Despite media’s relentless efforts to denigrate and ridicule Luton, this football match & Luton fans have once again proved what Luton has to offer in terms of community cohesion and good community relations.”

Luton Council held a celebration event in St George's Square on Monday, in which Lutonians gathered in thousands to give our victorious football team the reception of their lives, as they arrived in an open-top bus in St George’s Square, following a short ride from Kenilworth Road.

Watching Luton’s celebrations, a member of the public named Angela Giblin tweeted saying;

“I don’t think I have ever seen so many people wearing different religious headgear at a football celebration as there was in St Georges’ Square today.”

 And THIS IS UNBELIEVABLE that even DAILY MAIL should choose the kind of words to talk about Luton in such a positive way.  

"They have overcome adversity with small budgets, core values and integrity. They are a club who refuse to compromise their values and decided not to take the low-hanging fruit of commercial endorsements from betting companies because they didn't agree with it. Without wishing to be overly saccharine, this is what dreams should be made of, what football should represent".

"These principles and traits are, in part, what football clubs should embody and what the game should represent".

"There is something pure, clean and uplifting about their journey from non-League, where they were residing just nine years ago, to joining the world's biggest and best league".

"The overcoming of every single obstacle, the uniting of people, the validity of a football club and the achievements of individual merit alongside collective spirit — that's what Luton are. That's what should be celebrated, what we should be talking about, rather than how you access the away end at Kenilworth Road".

"Luton should be something we hope for and champion, not because they're the smaller relation to these big monolithic football clubs, but because they are English football".

"The Premier League needs clubs like Luton. They certainly shouldn't apologise for anything or develop an inferiority complex. They should just be absolutely, undeniably Luton Town FC".

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-12144769/SIMON-JORDAN-Theres-plastic-Luton-theyre-embodiment-game.html

Also, view the following links:

https://www.itv.com/news/anglia/2023-05-27/why-lutons-premier-league-promotion-is-one-of-footballs-greatest-stories

https://thelutonian.com/dont-change-over-life-changing-premier-league-boost-sweet-urges-luton/

https://www.facebook.com/LutonIrish/videos/1615546938960313/

Luton’s different faith leaders gathered to congratulate the Luton Town Football Club for their remarkable victory on Saturday 27th May at Wembley Stadium. You have done it – Premier League: Here We Come!