Catholic Priests from the Roman Catholic Diocese of Northampton visited Luton’s different places of worship

Recently a group of Catholic Priests from the Roman Catholic Diocese of Northampton visited Luton’s different places of worship, including Shree Santan Sewa Samaj Hindu Mandir (Lewsey Farm), Luton Central Mosque (Bury Park), and Guru Nanak Gurudwara (Dallow Road).

The day was a chance to hear about and engage with a wide range of examples of how Luton’s different faith communities are working together for the common good. The day also offered an opportunity to reflect on the principles that underpin the ideals and principles of effective partnerships as well as some of the challenges that can be experienced when working together across different faiths and cultures.   

During a presentation, the group appreciated how Grassroots, Luton Council of Faiths and Near Neighbours Programme create safe, brave and honest spaces, not just for the dialogue but for collective action to promote peace & reconciliation, understanding & friendships, and acceptance rather than tolerance of one another.

It was also highlighted that while there is indeed more common between us than what divides us, but inter faith work is not about syncretism. It is not about negotiating away our differences. It is not about undermining or comprising our differences. Instead, it is about asserting and affirming our differences, but doing so in a way so that it does not breed conflict and confrontation. It rather enriches our learning and understanding and broadens our worldview.

Fr Liam Castle of St Martin De Porres Catholic Church in Lewsey Farm said, “It is amazing to see people of many different faiths and beliefs living side by side in Luton. We have therefore opportunities to work together to build a society, which is rooted in the values of mutual respect, cooperation, openness and trust. This means finding ways to live our lives of faith with integrity, and allowing others to do so too. Our different religious traditions offer us many resources for this and teach us the importance of good relationships characterised by honesty, compassion and generosity of spirit. May we all use these resources for encouraging and strengthening friendships and relationships with one another.”

Fr Brendan Seerey of Our Lady Help of Christians, a Catholic Church in Castle Street, said, “As members of the one human family, we should show each other respect and courtesy. In our dealings with people of other faiths and beliefs, this means exercising good will, respecting other people’s beliefs and convictions and not misrepresenting or disparaging other people’s beliefs and practices.”

Together, listening and responding with openness and respect, we can move forward to work in ways that acknowledge genuine differences but build on shared hopes and values. 

At Shree Sanatan Sewa Samaj Hindu Mandir, Lewsey Farm, Luton

At Guru Nanak Gurudwara, Luton

At Central Mosque, Westbourne Road, Luton

May the joy, hope, and blessings of Easter be upon everyone

Easter, the most important Christian festival celebrating Jesus’ Resurrection, reminds us of the eternal hope that death does not have the last word on human destiny. 

Easter is preceded by Good Friday when Christians believe Jesus Christ was crucified.  Besides fasting, praying, and contemplating, Christians also join together in Good Friday Walks of Witness. In Luton, these were held in the Town Centre, Stopsley, Limbury, Leagrave, Bury Park & Beech Hill areas. During these walks, Scripture readings, meditations, and prayers are shared outside different Churches.

At All Saints Church, Anglican Assistant Curate Revd Peter Farquhar shared a reflection on how St Peter, after denying Jesus three times, was following Jesus at a distance on the road to Calvary – the site where Jesus was crucified.  Peter must have truly been broken at that point, but later in history Peter goes on to do amazing things and impacts Christianity worldwide.  Like St Peter, we might also be following Jesus at a distance, but Revd Farquhar prayed that through God’s love and grace, we might also be enabled to journey closely with Jesus and share God’s love with everyone, whom God has created in His image

At the Holy Ghost Roman Catholic Church, the Catholic Dean in Luton, Monsignor Kevin McGinnell reminded how Jesus was mocked by a cohort of 500 soldiers. Imagine, what does that do to be mocked by 500 people, and how much of that is happening in today’s world in different ways to different people. He pointed out that we could also be causing others humiliation by saying the wrong words or thinking about people inaccurately. Mgr McGinnell prayed for forgiveness for the way we can, even without meaning it, humiliate others. He encouraged all to look up to the Cross, which inspires us to stand against the humiliations of the world. 

At the Church of God in Christ (COGIC), the Anglican Dean in Luton, Revd Canon David Kesterton, reminded people that rooted in Christ we are the bearers of new life. He prayed that God may help us to believe that endings are but beginnings, and that graves are but doorways to a new life. He prayed - May the joy, hope, and blessings of Easter be upon everyone! AMEN.   

R to L: The Anglican Dean in Luton, Revd Canon David Kesterton & the Catholic Dean in Luton, Monsignor Kevin McGinnell leading the Good Friday Walk of Witness on behalf of the Bury Park Beech Hill Council of Churches

Luton Baha’i Community held Nawruz (the Persian New Year) celebrations

Nawruz marks the Persian New Year and is the first day of spring. Originating more than 3,000 years ago, it symbolises renewal and harmony with nature. Although rooted in Zoroastrianism, an ancient monotheistic religion, Nawruz is recognised by UNESCO, as a secular event, and the UN designated March 21 as the International Day of Nawruz.

The Luton Baha’i community held Nawruz celebrations on 23rd Mar’24. They provided guests with a delightful array of traditional Persian cuisine along with numerous entertaining musical and dance performances.

The Guest Speaker Annabel Djalili spoke eloquently about the Baha’i faith. She said, “At the heart of the Baha’i teachings is the conviction of humanity’s essential oneness. Baha’u’llah compared humanity to the human body, which is made up of millions of cells, all playing their part in maintaining the health of the body. The different parts of the body don’t compete with each other, and every cell is in a continuous process of giving and receiving.”

“Thinking about humanity through this lens helps us reflect more on the purpose of our lives. According to the Baha’i Teachings, every individual is a member of the body of humanity and has a unique soul and also shares a common purpose – to work for the betterment of the world, and to bring about an ever-advancing civilization.”

“So this awareness of our interdependence really helps us understand more deeply how we can function in our world which has countless situations where conflict is just accepted as the norm and as a driving force of human interaction.”

She explained how the Baha’i communities try all over the world to strengthen bonds of friendship and establish meaningful patterns of communication among people of various backgrounds, foster spaces that help young people develop their intellectual and spiritual capacities and build their capacity for service to humanity.

Carl Puran, President of the Baha’i community of Luton announced that all their local activities are open to everyone to take part. All are welcome.

He said, “Baha’is love to collaborate with others to transform our world individually and collectively, to further the cause of peace and unity.”

He expressed gratitude to Grassroots, Luton Council of Faiths, Near Neighbours Programme for constantly bringing Luton’s faith leaders and communities together.

Pic1: Richard Leigh (L) & other Baha’i friends, involved guests of all ages into singing an action-song identifying with the themes of love, peace and unity of humankind, at the Nawruz (Persian New Year) celebrations held on 23rd Mar’24.

C of E St Luke’s Church Café is a fine expression of ‘Loving Leagrave’ initiative in Luton

Research tells that the communal eating increases people’s social bonding and wellbeing. It is evidenced every Friday, when over 70 people eat hot Lunch together at a Community Cafe, started and hosted by St Luke’s Church, as part of its ‘Loving Leagrave’ initiative. It is held at Hockwell Ring Community Centre.

Since January last year, over 1600 people have attended the café.

The Vicar Revd Grace Sentamu-Baverstock shared, “In 2018, we started small by offering teas and coffees, but thanks to the help and support of many volunteers and funders, we are now buzzing with people & activities. We welcome people from diverse ethnic, religious and cultural backgrounds living in this area. We have babies, children, mums, young boys and girls, elderly and vulnerable – All are welcome.”

When asked why using Hockwell Ring Community Centre, Grace responded, “It is a neutral space in the heart of the local community. As a Church, we are trying to serve people where they are, than to expect people to come to us.”

Café Corodinator Sumitra Donaldson said, “Whatever we do, we do with dignity and grace. We make sure people’s dietary needs and preferences are taken into consideration, so that no one feels excluded”

“The recent grant from The Government’s Community Organisations Cost of Living Fund delivered by The National Lottery Community Fund has been helpful. We now have children’s art & craft activities, and have plans in the autumn to start the children’s cooking club too”.

Many people said they were lonely or depressed, but have found friendships at the café. Sumitra explained that 6 years ago she also suffered great illness, but she found many friends at this Café, which helped her recover. She then started volunteering and is currently one of the two Volunteer Coordinators.

She said, “The love and welcome I received, when I arrived here, is what I’m trying to give back to others. Seeing smiles on people’s faces brings joy to my soul and peace within.”

“Everyone fits in. Everyone gets on with one another. It’s love. We feel we are all one”,

This café is yet another model that captures and embodies a vision for Luton where all diverse cultures, ethnicities, and religions are welcomed, celebrated, and living harmoniously.

As part of the ‘Loving Leagrave’ initiative, St Luke’s Church runs a weekly Community Café at Hockwell Ring Community Centre. The Café Coordinators Sumitra & Annie (2nd & 3rd from left) are joined by the Chef and volunteers.

Guru Shri Ravidass Ji's 647th Birth anniversary celebrations held in Luton

Last Sunday, Guru Ravidass Sangat, Cardigan Street Luton, held the 647th Birth anniversary celebrations of a prominent 15th and 16th Century visionary and saint in India, Shri Guru Ravidass Ji.

Several dignitaries attended the celebrations including the Mayor of Luton, Bedfordshire Police & Crime Commissioner, MPs, Councillors, Luton Council staff and guests from different faiths.

After the soulful ‘Kirtan’ – the singing of Sikh scriptures with Harmonium (a keyboard instrument) and Tabla (a pair of hand drums), Guru Ravidass Sangat General Secretary Sanjeev Kumar, MBE welcomed all. He invited dignitaries to honour a few members of the Guru Ravidass Sangat Luton for working tirelessly to serve the wider community.

Luton Council of Faiths was one amongst a few other organisations that were thanked for supporting Guru Ravidass Sangat Luton.

Mayor of Luton Cllr Yaqub Hanif said, “Community Cohesion in our town is not just a nicety but a necessity, underpinning the very fabric of our society. It is like a mosaic where each community contributes to harmonious co-existence. It is about understanding and respecting our shared aspirations.”

“When we stand together we become a formidable force, capable of overcoming any challenges that come our way. In Luton, community cohesion is a beacon of hope that cuts through the ignorance in our society, and connects us all together.”

Luton MPs Rachel Hopkins and Sarah Owen said, “Community Cohesion is an easy thing to say, but a harder thing to do, when there are people in the positions of power who are trying to break down our unity, trying to keep communities against one another. However, Luton’s strength shines through, whenever we are challenged the most whether it is through the pandemic, or through the cost of living crisis.”

Sarah Owen said, “Community cohesion for me always starts with education and learning. I have learnt today that Shree Guru Ravidass stood for social justice, equality, respect and freedom for all. These underlying principles defined his struggles to create an equilibrium in society. Today is Mother’s Day. It is also the week we have celebrated International Women’s Day. As the fight for equality and gender equality in particular, still continues, we recognise we have a long way to go, but I know we’ll get there together.”

Mayor of Luton Cllr Mohammad Yaqub Hanif addressing the gathering at Shri Guru Ravidass Ji's 647th Birth anniversary celebrations held in Luton. He was joined by Cllr Javed Hussain, Deputy Leader of the Luton Council and Sanjeev Kumar, MBE General Secretary of Shri Guru Ravidass Sangat Luton.

A few members of the Guru Ravidass Sangat Luton were honoured for working tirelessly to serve the wider community.

A few guests, organisations were honoured and thanked for supporting Guru Ravidass Sangat Luton.

World Day of Prayer 2024 calls everyone to “Bear With One Another in Love”

With its origins in the 19th century, the World Day of Prayer (WDP) is commemorated annually in over 146 countries on the first Friday in March. As a global ecumenical movement, it is about “Informed Prayer and Prayerful Action”. 

This year’s WDP Service was held at The Square Methodist Church in Dunstable. The service theme was “I Beg You… Bear With One Another in Love” (a verse from The Holy Bible Ephesians 4:1-3).

In an opening statement, a service leader shared that the WDP resources are prepared well in advance by Christian women from different parts of the world. This year, the service has been prepared by Christian women of Palestine. When the service was prepared, no one could have predicted the terrible war that is currently raging, still the service material felt perfectly appropriate for the present time.

The service began with a traditional Palestinian song titled “Yarabba Ssalami”. It meant – God of Peace, come among us, rain down your peace on the world, make a path for your goodness, fill e’vry heart with your peace.

During the service, three stories of Palestinian Christian women, from three different generations were shared. The stories of resilience and bearing with one another in love, despite difficulties and differences, inspire us all to unite in prayer for just and harmonious solutions that would bring an end to human suffering, and achieve security and peace for all people around the world.

One prayer in the service booklet read; “God of Peace, we pray for a peaceful end to the ongoing situation in Palestine. We also pray for the city of Jerusalem, sacred to the three religions of Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. Let there be equality, freedom of religion, freedom of movement, and freedom of expression.”

At the altar, several Palestinian symbols were placed as a central focus. These included olives, olive oil, lemons, oranges, cactus plants, flowers and baskets. Upon arrival, everyone was given a cut-out of olive branch with famous Hymn writer Fred Kaan’s words written on it – “Put peace into each other’s hands and like a treasure hold it”. People exchanged these cut-outs as a sign of sharing peace.

May we all work for peace and justice in our world and bear with one another in love!

Host Revd Claudia Lupi (L), Minister at The Square Methodist Church, joined by Priests & members from different Christian denominations in leading together the World Day of Prayer Service 2024 on the theme – Bear with one another in Love.

Inter Faith Network for the UK Board announces closure of charity due to withdrawal of government funding

https://www.interfaith.org.uk/news/news-release-inter-faith-network-for-the-uk-board-announces-closure-of-charity-due-to-withdrawal-of-government-funding

NEWS RELEASE                                       

22 FEBRUARY 2024 

Inter Faith Network for the UK Board announces closure of charity due to withdrawal of government funding

The Board of Trustees of the Inter Faith Network for the UK met today. It has, with much regret, agreed that the charity will close.

This is linked to withdrawal by Government of funding for July 2023-March 2024 offered in July 2023, subject to conditions. In a letter to IFN’s Co-Chairs from Secretary of State Rt Hon Michael Gove MP of 21 February, it was confirmed that the offer of funding was being withdrawn. This was for reasons foreshadowed in an earlier letter from him to them of 19 January, to which they had responded in detail (see statement of 24 January https://www.interfaith.org.uk/news/statement-on-a-letter-received-by-ifns-co-chairs-from-secretary-of-state-levelling-up-housing-and-communities-rt-hon-michael-gove-mp). 

Mr Gove’s letter of 21 February notes that: “The Government has had a policy of non-engagement with the MCB since 2009. Whilst I recognise that the MCB was already a member of the Inter Faith Network when the previous offer of funding was made, I find their membership regrettable and it is deeply concerning that an MCB member could be appointed into your core governance structure. This increases the proximity between government funding and an organisation (the MCB) with which the Government has a long-standing policy of non-engagement. This is even more important in the case of funding for a prominent and nationally active organisation such as the IFN, which would carry too great a risk of compromising the credibility and effectiveness of that policy.”

The Board has sought with energy to diversify IFN’s funding base. However, the kind of work done by infrastructure and backbone bodies - such as linking, sharing good practice and fostering dialogue - is not eye-catching and easy to fund and does need some financial support from Government.  IFN’s Board was glad to receive from Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities in July 2023 the offer of £155,000 fresh funding for the period July 2023 – March 2024 (approximately 50% of its budget this year). It is deeply disappointed that despite IFN having stood ready throughout the process to have dialogue with the Government, no opportunity was offered for that and that – over seven months after the offer of funding (subject to conditions) – withdrawal of funding appears necessary to Mr Gove for the reasons that he outlines.

As IFN’s Co-Chairs had earlier explained to Mr Gove in a response of 22 January to his letter of 19 January, “It is fully understood that Government can choose not to engage with bodies for reasons that it is not required to make public. However, it would be difficult for a charity to do so where a body has not been proscribed, had legal action taken against it or unless there were to be a clear issue of reputational damage (not always, of course, a straightforward matter to judge).”

IFN’s Co-Chairs also commented that: “It is not easy to see how IFN’s purpose (the value of which it has always been believed the Government appreciates) could be achieved by sowing division - and division would certainly be sown if there was an attempt to expel from membership, without its having been proscribed, found guilty of illegal actions or in some way acted so as to bring reputational damage to IFN,  an organisation that has among its members (and therefore represents) over 500 national, regional and local Muslim organisations, mosques, charities and schools. Although the Government can choose not to engage with it, that is not a sensible option open to the IFN if it is to achieve the purposes for which the Government funds it in the first place.”

The background to IFN’s engagement with the Department over this matter of funding can be seen via links on the homepage of the IFN website at www.interfaith.org.uk.  

The matter has been repeatedly raised by Parliamentarians, including through an Adjournment Debate on 10 January and an Urgent Question from Rt Hon Sir Stephen Timms MP on 22 February, with cross-party contributions about the importance of IFN’s work. There have also been letters to MPs and Ministers from across the UK, as well as articles and statements by national faith community bodies, local inter faith groups and others, and a petition set up by a local inter faith practitioner.

Neither the careful and considered response of IFN’s Board, nor the widespread support and concern at the potential loss of the Inter Faith Network for the UK have led Mr Gove to reconsider his position.

Therefore, the organisation is now on the path to closure and IFN Trustees and staff will be working to bring the organisation’s work to a close and to preserve its legacy in ways that enable others to build strongly on that in the future. 

Statement on behalf of the Board of Trustees of the Inter Faith Network for the UK 

22 February 2024

Notes:

1. Press queries to Inter Faith Network: tel 020 7730 0410; email ifnet@interfaith.org.uk  

2. The Inter Faith Network for the UK www.interfaith.org.uk  is the UK’s inter faith linking body. It has worked since 1987 to “advance public knowledge and mutual understanding of the teachings, traditions and practices of the different faith communities in Britain including an awareness both of their distinctive features and their common ground and to promote good relations between people of different faiths in this country”.

3. IFN’s vision is of “a society where there is understanding of the diversity and richness of the faith communities in the UK and the contribution that they make; and where we live and work together with mutual respect and shared commitment to the common good”.  As part of that, it has always had a strong focus on shared values as a basis for working together for the benefit of wider society.

4. IFN works with its member bodies and many others to promote good inter faith relations and cooperation at every level, to highlight the importance of this work, and to ensure that the importance of religious identity and of good inter faith relations is understood in wider society. Through its major Inter Faith Week programme, which in November 2023 saw over 1,020 inter faith activities take place, it also promotes dialogue between those of religious and non-religious beliefs.

5. IFN’s member bodies include: national faith community representative bodies from the Baha’i, Buddhist, Christian, Druid, Hindu, Jain, Jewish, Latter-day Saint, Muslim, Pagan, Sikh, Spiritualist, and Zoroastrian faith communities of the UK; national and regional inter faith organisations; local inter faith organisations; and educational and academic bodies with an interest in multi faith and inter faith issues. A list of these can be seen at www.interfaith.org.uk/members/list and details of its multi faith Board of Trustees can be found at www.interfaith.org.uk/about/people.

6. IFN is funded from a number of sources such as trusts, faith communities, individual donors and – until March 2023 – Government. Government funding has been made available towards its work since 2001 and has been a vital part of what enabled that work, including national Inter Faith Week, to take place.

The Inter Faith Network for the UK
Mary Sumner House, 24 Tufton Street, London SW1P 3RB
Tel: +44 (0)20 7730 0410
Email: ifnet@interfaith.org.uk  Web: www.interfaith.org.uk
www.facebook.com/IFNetUK   www.twitter.com/IFNetUK
Registered charity no. 1068934
Company limited by guarantee no. 3443823 Registered in England

 https://www.interfaith.org.uk/news/news-release-inter-faith-network-for-the-uk-board-announces-closure-of-charity-due-to-withdrawal-of-government-funding

In a joint statement, GRASSROOTS & Luton Council of Faiths stated that even though the government’s imminent threat to close the Interfaith Network of the UK through withdrawing government subsidies does not directly hamper the local interfaith work, this decision by the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities has implications for the whole country - and perhaps wider - by impeding proper interfaith relations between the many peaceful religions and community groups who have made this land their home of freedom and sanctuary.

The Archbishop of York has called it “a loss to the nation” and a “matter of great regret”.

https://www.churchtimes.co.uk/articles/2024/1-march/news/uk/inter-faith-network-closure-a-loss-to-the-nation-says-archbishop-of-york

A petition has been launched (see the link below) requesting Michael Gove to keep his pledge on Inter Faith Network funding.

https://www.change.org/p/michael-gove-keep-your-pledge-on-inter-faith-network-funding

International Mother Language Day Commemorated in Luton

International Mother Language Day (IMLD), first proclaimed by UNESCO and later adopted by the UN General Assembly, underscores the role of languages in promoting inclusion and achieving Sustainable Development Goals. 

UN statement highlighted that multilingual and multicultural societies thrive through the preservation of their languages, which serve as conduits for traditional knowledge and cultural heritage. However, linguistic diversity faces increasing threats as more languages vanish.

Currently, 40% of the global population lacks access to education in their native language, a figure that exceeds 90% in certain regions.

The research underscores the benefits of using learners' native languages in education, fostering better learning outcomes, self-esteem, and critical thinking skills.

Although the actual UN international date is 21st February, based on the history of the Bengali language movement of the 1950s, the United Nations Association (UNA) Luton Branch and Purbachal-the eastern sky, a Bangladeshi voluntary cultural organisation, held an event on Sunday 25 February to celebrate International Mother Language Day.

Our focus for this year’s celebration included the UN theme which is “Multilingual education is a pillar of learning and intergenerational learning”, stated Dr. Nazia Khanum, OBE, Deputy Lieutenant and the Chair of UNA-Luton & Purbachal.

She added “We support this theme and celebrate mother-tongues to promote effective education for all, respect for cultural diversity and sustainable peace. We have been working on this for decades.”

There were talks, poetry recitations, songs and statements to unite people across communities. One song included fourteen different languages.

Several dignitaries spoke at the event including His Majesty's Lord Lieutenant of Bedfordshire Susan Lousada, The Worshipful the Mayor of Luton Mohammed Yaqub Hanif, the Mayor of Stevenage Myla Arceno, Luton Sixth Form College Principal Altaf Hussain, and Luton South MP Rachel Hopkins. Luton North MP Sarah Owen was unable to attend but she sent a message of support.

Quoting the UN statement, Dr Khanum said, “When languages fade, so does the world's rich tapestry of cultural diversity. Every two weeks a language disappears taking with it an entire cultural and intellectual heritage. At least 45% of the estimated 7000 languages spoken in the world are endangered.”

“Let’s hope that multilingual and multicultural societies will exist through their languages, and it will transmit and preserve traditional knowledge and cultures sustainably.”

Vocalist Dr. Rukhsana Safa (L) accompanied by Guitarist Dr. Sybghat Rahim (R) sang at Luton’s International Mother Language Day event, a Bengali song written by the Late Abdul Gaffar Chowdhury remembering the Bengali language martyrs of 1952.

As a host and the event organiser, Dr. Nazia Khanum, OBE, Deputy Lieutenant and the Chair of UNA-Luton & Purbachal.(R) giving a welcome speech at International Mother Language Day 2024 event in Luton

Ash Wednesday Service at Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church, Stopsley, Luton

Shrove Tuesday is often referred to as Pancake Day. This is a Christian tradition that marks the day before the start of the Christian season of Lent, a solemn Christian religious observance commemorating the 40 days Jesus Christ spent fasting in the desert.

Shrove Tuesday is a day of feasting before embarking on the 40-day period of fasting and reflection leading up to Easter.

Historically speaking, “Shrove Tuesday” was a day on which one confessed one’s sins and received absolution from a priest, but it has also become a secular celebration enjoyed by people of all backgrounds, with a primary focus on the joy of making and enjoying pancakes.

After Shrove Tuesday comes Ash Wednesday, which is observed by many Christians as a holy day of prayer and fasting, marking the first day of Lent.

Many Christians attend special Ash Wednesday church services. At these services people may receive ash, in the form of a cross marked on their foreheads or sprinkled over their heads, as a reminder to turn away from sin, be faithful to the Gospel and that we are dust, and to dust we shall return.

The ashes are prepared by burning palm leaves from the previous year's Palm Sunday celebrations. Palm Sunday falls on the Sunday before Easter and commemorates Jesus Christ's entry into Jerusalem, when people waved palm branches to greet and honour him.

Leading the Ash Wednesday Service at Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church (Stospley Luton), the Parish Priest, Fr Allan Jones, reminded everyone that besides fasting, giving up certain food items, and giving to charity, we must try spending more time in prayer, and less time online. He highlighted the world’s needs and people in despair, particularly in the war-torn countries such as Gaza – they all need our help, aid and prayers.

A Sacred Heart Church member said, “We do not wear ashes to proclaim our holiness, but to acknowledge that we are sinners, in need of repentance and renewal.”

Fr Allan encouraged congregants to learn to live in solidarity with the less fortunate, reflect on where we have fallen short of God’s hope for us and pray so we all can become better agents of God’s love in the world.

Fr Allan Jones (R) and Deacon Jim Bannan (L) leading the the Ash Wednesday Service at the Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church (Stospley Luton)

Racial Justice Sunday - An opportunity to pray for all refugees and asylum seekers

11th Feb’24 was the Racial Justice Sunday. It was an opportunity for churches to give thanks for the gifts and beauty of human diversity, and to commit to end racism and acts of discrimination. 

Churches Together in Britain & Ireland produced resources, which can be found at https://ctbi.org.uk/racial-justice-sunday-2024/ and can be used throughout the year. These resources explore a crucial issue of our contemporary times – Border Crossing.

According to the latest figures from the United Nations, ‘At least 108.4 million people around the world have been forced to flee their homes. Among them are nearly 35.3 million refugees, around 41 percent of whom are under the age of 18.’

Europe is one of the areas to which people have been fleeing for safety. Over a thousand refugees and asylum seekers were placed in Luton about 4 years ago. It is commendable that despite political and media hostility, ordinary people, and faith communities in Luton stepped up to support people seeking sanctuary.

The Revd Canon David Kesterton, Vicar at Luton Parish of All Saints and Church of England Area Dean of Luton said, “We have been supporting refugees and asylum seekers at All Saints for 3 ½ years.”

“We are at the frontline offering clothing, legal advice, guidance, and much-needed moral, social and spiritual support. And we do this with respect and dignity. It is about humanising those who have been traumatised.” 

Volunteer Sandra Miller said, “It takes time to build trusting relationships so that people do not feel being judged. At our twice-a-week drop-in sessions, we offer to over 50 people and children, a hot drink, biscuits/cake, and the chance to socialise or play board games. We also provide them assistance in registering with a doctor, or dentist or completing paperwork for a school place, etc.” 

Revd Kesterton is concerned that the government is speeding up the process. Many will get leave to remain, but this means they will become homeless as they will no longer be eligible to stay in the Hotels. He is therefore requesting all faith leaders and communities to help find households with spare bedrooms, that can accommodate people for some time.

He said, “We pray that all refugees and asylum seekers find a pathway to a new settled life.”

From L to R: C of E Reader & Volunteer Sandra Miller, Vicar & Luton Area Dean Revd Canon David Kesterton, and the Asst. Curate Revd Peter Farquhar at All Saints Refugees & Asylum Seekers Drop-in last week

Community Orchard planted in the Church Peace Garden

The Revd Luke Larner joined a few months ago, as the Priest-In-Charge of St Andrew’s Church Luton that has served the local community in the Biscot area for over 150 years. 

Sharing his vision for the Church, Fr Luke said, “We’d like the Church to become a peace and wellbeing hub for all in our parish area of Biscot and Saints wards of Luton.  We want it to be a blessing to our community. We want to welcome people of all faiths and none, and work together in partnership with the Blenheim Medical Centre and other local organisations, to promote peace and well-being for all.”

On the 1st Feb’24, the Bishop of Bedford Right Reverend Richard Atkinson blessed the Peace Garden at St Andrew’s Church, in which people from different religious and ethnic backgrounds came together to plant a community orchard.

Konni Deppe of the community gardening project called Edible High Town, guided everyone to plan the fruit trees.

Currently training as an orchardist, Konni shared that probably 99% of Luton’s 150 historic orchards in the past 100 years no longer exist. The whole country seems to have lost most of this wonderful habitat. So it is good to create a new orchard, with good trees, at a suitable site with a strong community that will come together to nurture the trees with love, water and mulch, and enjoy the fruit of labour together.

Dr Tahir Mehmood of Blenheim Medical Centre expressed his delight in working in partnership with the Church on this project, which is to enhance the prospects of people’s health and well-being. 

A representative from the local Muslim community read Hadith on Trees – “Even if the Resurrection were established upon one of you, while he has in his hand a sapling, let him plant it.” (Source: Musnad Ahmad 12902)

Bishop Richard prayed, “As we focus on the needs of a broken world, we give thanks for this peace garden, for the people who have worked upon it, and for all that it symbolizes and represents. We pray that it may indeed be a place of peace and renewed relationships. We also pray for the Anvil to turn the Amnesty knives into gardening tools, transforming violence towards peace and community. AMEN.”

the Bishop of Bedford Right Reverend Richard Atkinson (3rd from left) blessed the Peace Garden at St Andrew’s Church, in which people from different religious and ethnic backgrounds came together to plant a community orchard.

Holocaust Memorial Day Event reminds the ‘Fragility of Freedom’

The 27th of January is International Holocaust Memorial Day (HMD) when 6 million Jews murdered during the Holocaust are remembered and honoured. HMD also commemorates the Roma genocide and the millions of non-Jewish people murdered under the Nazi persecution including disabled people, black people, and LGBT people among many more. HMD also honours and remembers those murdered in the recent genocides in Cambodia, Rwanda, Bosnia & Darfur. 

Introducing the theme at the national HMD event live-streamed on 27th Jan, a speaker said genocides don’t just happen. It is often a subtle and slow process, but one thing is certain; in every genocide that has taken place, those who are targeted for persecution have had their freedoms restricted and removed. Therefore, the HMD event theme this year is the ‘Fragility of Freedom’.

In her opening statement, the Chair of the HMD Trust, Laura Marks OBE said, “This year, the nation is coming together, to mark the Holocaust Memorial Day under tragic and shocking circumstances. We were all appalled by the massacre in Israel by Hamas on October 7. The subsequent war in Gaza has caused immense civilian suffering. Here, in the UK, we are experiencing record levels of anti-Semitism, anti-Jewish hatred. We are also recording a deplorable and deeply concerning rise in anti-Muslim hatred - Islamophobia. Deliberate violence against & between communities proliferates across our world. Our sincere hope is that the Holocaust Memorial Day 2024 can help bridge the divides, bringing people together, no matter what race religion, or ethnicity.” 

The recording of the national HMD event can be viewed at https://www.hmd.org.uk/ukhmd/.

At the HMD event in Luton, civic dignitaries, including the Lord Lieutenant of Bedfordshire and members of Luton’s diverse communities lit candles in memory of all those killed during the Holocaust and the subsequent genocides.

The event was held at the University of Bedfordshire, at which a Holocaust survivor shared a moving account of his painful story. He said this wasn’t the first genocide and sadly this wasn’t the last. The human race is not good at ‘Never Again’. 

Later in the programme, the Ten Stages of Genocide were recited to remind that genocides must be resisted every day and that the fragility of our freedoms must be protected and preserved.

At the Holocaust Memorial event in Luton, civic dignitaries and members of Luton’s diverse communities lit candles in memory of all those killed during the Holocaust and the subsequent genocides.

World Religion Day Commemoration in Luton

World Religion Day is a time to celebrate the culture and diversity of all world religions. It occurs annually on the third Sunday of January and was first established by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baháʼís of the United States. The first day was observed in 1950. Since then, the event has now taken on a life of its own, as it’s no longer just followers of the Baháʼí faith that celebrate this day. People from all religions across the globe come together to mark this special day.

The Baháʼí Faith emerged in 19th century Persia (now Iran), and believes all religions have value and that there are common features and similarities between them.

In marking World Religion Day, Sam Taylor, a member of the Luton Bahai community said “It is a day dedicated to acknowledging and respecting the various religious traditions and beliefs practiced around the world and in our town. We are therefore encouraging individuals to learn about different religions, engage in interfaith conversations, and work towards a more harmonious and inclusive society.”

Carl Puran of the Luton Baháʼí community said, “As Baháʼís we believe in the oneness of religion and humanity, and that no one should be treated differently because of their race, religion, age or gender.” 

Another member of the Luton Baháʼí community Farzad Forghani said, “Based on the Baháʼí core principles, World Religion Day exists to promote interfaith understanding and harmony. When celebrating World Religion Day, we remember that it is a time of awareness and peace.”

Farzad admired the work of the Luton Council of Faiths going into the Schools showcasing how Luton’s different faith communities and faith leaders work together for peace and unity in our town. All attending the event agreed it is important to instill in our children a sense of mutual respect for one another’s beliefs and the ethos of not just co-existence but also working for the common good.

People from Luton’s different faith communities were invited to bring and share prayers, readings, meditations, and thoughts on the themes of unity and peace. They all admitted our world is like an examination hall for us to perform as well as we can, so we get the best results in the afterlife.

Amongst people from Luton’s different faiths, sharing prayers, readings, meditations and thoughts on the themes of unity and peace, Farzad Forghani (L) reading a prayer for peace at the World Religion Day event, hosted by Luton Bahai community

River Lea, Wardown Lakes, and other local waters blessed by the Vicar of St Andrew’s Church Luton

Last Sunday on 7th Jan’ 2024, most Churches observed the feast of Epiphany. It is principally remembering the visit of the Magi (also known as the Three Wise Men or the Three Kings) to the Christ Child, and also the baptism of Jesus.

Popular Epiphany customs include singing, chalking the door – having one's house blessed, consuming Three Kings Cake, and removing Christmas decorations.

During the Epiphany Service at St Andrew’s Church, the Vicar Revd Luke Larner spoke of his visit to a friend’s Church where he kept a wild-looking visitor in waiting, least realising that the man was not only an invited guest speaker that evening but also a highly respected charity leader. He stated that appearances might be misleading. The whole point of epiphany is to have moments of enlightening discovery and realisation, but our preconceived notions about God and people can frequently keep us from experiencing these moments.

He further reminded of the Roman King Herod in the Christmas story, who brutally killed innocent children to preserve his power and regime, and this year Luke said, the cry of Ramallah (a Palestinian city) takes on a whole new meaning given the terrible loss of life in the Holy Land in the name of power and land.

He concluded the service with a blessing of chalk for people to take home and bless their own homes by marking their doorway. People write the first letters of the names of the biblical Magi, or they write 'May Christ bless this house'.

After the Church service, all were invited to celebrate the Feast of the Baptism of Christ with a blessing of the River Lea at Wardown Park. “It is a chance to give thanks for our river, water and local environment, and renew our commitment to safeguarding all creation,” stated Revd Luke.

Water is a primal element of creation. Without water, there is no life. So he blessed the River Lea, Wardown Lakes, and other local waters, and the seas of the world. He prayed for all to have free access to the clean drinking water. He also prayed for all the living things in these waters and for the Environment Agency and Luton Parks Services, and for all the volunteers and charities, who help to maintain it all.

After the Epiphany Service at St Andrew’s Church Luton, the Vicar Revd Luke Larner celebrated the Feast of Jesus’ Baptism by blessing the River Lea and praying for Wardown Lakes, and other local waters, and the seas of the world.

Wishing everyone a happy, safe and a prosperous New Year!

Christmas is the biggest annual festival commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ. It follows the Season of Advent, which begins four Sundays before Christmas. In Western Christianity, the Christmas season runs from December 25 (Christmas Day) to January 5 (Twelfth Night or Epiphany Eve), popularly known as the 12 Days of Christmas.

Several Christmas customs include gift giving, singing carols, watching Christmas movies and Nativity plays, exchanging Christmas cards, attending church services, family meals and displaying various Christmas decorations including Christmas trees, Christmas lights, and holly etc.

However, this year, many Christians around the world found themselves feeling overwhelmed by the war in the birthplace of Jesus, which is Bethlehem.

A Church in Bethlehem placed baby Jesus in rubble in a Nativity scene saying “This is what Christmas looks like in Palestine.”

As a result, many Christians canceled their Christmas celebrations in solidarity with the call of the Heads of Churches in Palestine to desist from Christmas celebrations this year.

It’s been a hard-hitting call that demanded sacrifice and a deep understanding of what it means to be a human community.

It is easy for us to say that we must live in hope, but the war hostilities in the Holy Land and in places like Ukraine and many other parts of our world, leave the notion of hope looking empty.

So as we step into a New Year, it is worth pondering how do we find hope in the midst of wars and conflicts going on in our world.

It’s unlikely that conflicts and tensions will all disappear anytime soon, but it is worth remembering. the Bible verse Matthew 1:23 "…and they shall call his name Emmanuel".  The word Emmanuel means God is with is. For us as Christians, the message of Christmas therefore is that God is with us. So, whatever we believe, we can all continue to share God’s love and our love for one another, in the hope of a better world, believing God is with us.

May the New Year be a happy, safe, and prosperous New Year for everyone around the world! 

Christ in Rubble Photo (credit Revd Dr Munther Isaac, Bethlehem) underlined the Christmas message that God is with us in all our suffering. “It is a message of comfort and hope to us”, stated Revd Dr Munther Isaac.

https://www.thenationalnews.com/mena/palestine-israel/2023/12/07/baby-jesus-lies-amid-rubble-in-bethlehem-church-christmas-nativity-scene/

The World Council of Churches (WCC) Christmas message 2023

https://www.oikoumene.org/resources/christmas-2023

What has come into being in him was life, and the life was the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it –John 1:3-5

In so many ways we, and our whole world, are living through a time of darkness, when mounting challenges threaten to diminish our hope, to overwhelm our will to meet the evident needs and palpable pains of our day, and even to sap our dedication to truth and justice.

Yet, as disciples of Jesus and as Christian communities united in Christ’s love, we are called to stand up to fear, counter falsehood, challenge selfishness and greed, and offer hope to the whole world.

We cannot acquiesce in disappointment nor succumb to despair. The world needs more from us— more courage, more creativity, more inspiration and dedication. More self-giving love.

From where do we source such energy and life?

Remarkably, we Christians find that strength in the birth of a weak and vulnerable baby, born 2,000 years ago into poverty at the far edge of empire in Bethlehem, Palestine, soon to be endangered by evil powers and displaced in exile.

In this poor child we recognize the heir of the great Jewish prophetic tradition of justice, the one who proclaimed God’s nearness and our dearness, the one in whom his followers came to see the very image of God and the promise of a New Creation.

In his birth, we welcome God’s own Son now immanent, the epiphany of God embodied in our humanity, sharing our nature and lifting us to share in his. He is Immanuel - God with us forever.

No wonder the angels sing, the shepherds kneel, and the very stars shine brightly.

Our celebration of the birth of Jesus is thus our defiance of despair, our yes to life and hope. He is our light in a time of darkness, enabling us to live for the truth and to strive for the redemption of the world.

Children of the light, we will not settle, nor let others settle, for a world lethally scarred by violence, seared by heat, or darkened by fear. We will not acquiesce in the devolution of democracies nor the misuse of religion nor pandering to prejudice.

Therefore, as we, Christians everywhere celebrate the birth of the Messiah—God’s countersign to a world that sometimes seems bent on self-destruction—we in the World Council of Churches share with you our heartfelt joy. We redouble our resolve to labour tirelessly with you for the health and healing of the sick, a fair economy, the well-being of migrants and displaced people, peace and security for all, the advancement of human rights and dignity, deeper community in faith, and the flowering of justice for women, for children, for the earth itself.

So let us rejoice! The light of Christ promises to banish our darkness. May it brighten our spirits and warm our hearts. May it light our way, illuminating our journey to wholeness, to authentic discipleship, to justice and to peace on earth. May the love and light of Jesus fill our hearts and lives this Christmas and always!

Blessings and peace in Christ,

Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay 
General Secretary 
World Council of Churches

https://www.oikoumene.org/resources/christmas-2023

Luton's Annual Peace Light service prays for peace with justice in our world

This year’s Annual Peace Light service, held at Luton’s All Saints Church on Shaftesbury Road, was all about praying for peace with justice in our world.

For over twenty years, local scouts, civic guests, and friends from other faith communities have gathered to welcome the peace light flame brought from Bethlehem to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ which Christians mark as Christmas.

The Revd Canon David Kesterton, Vicar, Parish of All Saints with St Peter and Church of England Area Dean of Luton said, “The aim is to pass on the peace light and its message to as many people as possible. By keeping the peace light at our Church we are participating in an expression of peace and goodwill to all peoples that transcends ethnicities, cultures, political and religious barriers.”

A reader at All Saints Church, Sandra Miller lit a few candles for peace in the Holy Land, and for peace in several other parts of the world too.

Members from different faith communities included Maqsood Anwar of Madinah Mosque, who said it is heartbreaking and distressing to see so many people being killed in the ongoing wars and violent conflicts across the world and yet different nations are busy selling and providing arms and ammunition. Sanjeev Kumar, MBE of Guru Ravidass Sangat quoted verses on peace from the Sikh Holy Scripture called Shri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. Yogesh Mistry of Shree Sanatan Sewa Samaj Hindu Mandir recited mantras (verses) in Sanskrit language invoking peace on earth, in the universe, and in all the elements of nature.

The guest speaker Revd Luke Larner from Luton’s St Andrew’s Church shared how the 13th Century Italian Saint Francis had transformed from being a rebel fighter to becoming an outstanding peace champion. At the time St Francis lived there was terrible violence going on in the Holy Land, just like there is now. St Francis encouraged Christians and Muslims to be friends and show one another kindness.

Revd Luke, therefore, called upon everyone to think of the acts of love, solidarity and peace we can do in our everyday lives. He said, “Let us stand together as peace candles in the dark, and never let go out that light we share.” AMEN.

Members from different Christian denominations and Luton’s different faith communities gathered at this year’s Annual Peace Light service, held at Luton’s All Saints Church on Shaftesbury Road. They welcomed the peace light flame brought from Bethlehem and joined in praying for peace with justice in our world.

A Vigil held in Luton to pray for the peace in the Holy Hand

Hundreds gathered at Wardown Park Bandstand in a Vigil to grieve and to pray for the peace in the Holy Hand. The vigil was organised by the Luton’s Councils of Mosques and supported by the Churches Together in Luton and the Luton Council of Faiths.  

A number of speakers especially young people took to the stage with poetry while Christian and Muslim faith leaders called for a transition from lamentation to action. Denouncing spiritual narcissism faith leaders reminded us that our Prophets taught us to stand on the side of justice.  

Educators raised concerns about post-traumatic stress disorder amongst young people watching the horrific war-related news. Children are feeling concerned about children killed in the war. No Children, Jews, Christians, Muslims, or people of no faith, no one should have to face such atrocities, leaders jointly echoed.  

Speakers called upon the Western leaders to make wise and inspired decisions to resolve the Israel-Palestine conflict without becoming parties to the conflict.  

Luton Council of Faiths publicly reaffirmed solidarity with one another in Luton and made an urgent call for a ceasefire. More violence, more bombs, and more killings do not, and will not bring peace to the Holy land. 

“We believe that the people of Israel and the people of Palestine want peace. We also believe that the Palestinians have a fundamental right to a state of their own alongside Israel. The war must stop. Our call for an immediate ceasefire must be heard” said Prof Zafar Khan the Chair of Luton Council of Faiths. 

Gulie Butcher, a Quaker and the Vice Chair of Luton Council of Faiths said, “Luton town has come together as one at this prayer vigil – watching as the silent stars go by the hopes and fears of all the years. For in this world where there's war, we have watched violence, injury, loss of life, grief, inhumanity. We have felt, overwhelming sadness, disbelief, grief, anger, and helplessness. As the dark night breaks in and we all join together in prayer for the love of power to be overcome by the power of love, let's hope that nations speak peace unto nations and that there is peace on earth, and goodwill to all humankind transcends all borders and boundaries.”

The Mayor of Luton, Councillor Mohammed Yaqub Hanif (2nd from the right), accompanied by The Revd Canon David Kesterton of All Saints Church Luton (middle) and Mr Jasbir Singh of Guru Nanak Gurudwara, Luton (on the left).

Chanukah – the Jewish Festival of Lights celebrations in Luton

Chanukah is the Jewish festival of lights. It’s origins go back around 2600 years to the days of the Jewish Temple in Jerusalem, or to be more precise the destruction of the second Temple by the Romans.

A 7 branch candelabra, known as a Menorah, was always kept alight in the Temple. This was the symbol of bringing the light of God into the world. When the temple was destroyed this golden Menorah was melted down by the invaders, and the light went out. Over time, a Jewish group, the Maccabees, defied the invaders and eventually liberated Jerusalem and the remains of the Temple, where they found many of the artefacts and religious symbols destroyed and gone, including the all-important Menorah.

They set about creating a new Menorah, made from simple materials, but they needed pure olive oil to light the wicks, and rekindle the light of God. Most of the olive oil had also been destroyed but one small bottle was found, enough for one day. The Maccabees lit the Menorah whilst they collected more olives to purify into oil, a process taking 8 days.

Many believe God looked down upon their dedication and through this single bottle of oil kept the Menorah alight for 8 days, until the pure oil was ready. This became the celebration of Chanukah – a celebration of lighting an additional candle over 8 days.

Jewish communities worldwide celebrate this festival of the triumph of light over darkness, by preparing and serving the special treats of doughnuts and “potato latkes” (rostis).

This year the first night was 7th December and the last night will be on 15th December.

We all hope and pray that the lighting of the Chanukah Menorah will bring renewed light and peace into the world.

Mr Brian Green, President of the Luton United Synagogue, said "During this season, all faiths, especially those of the Abrahamic origin: Judaism, Christianity and Islamic; should come together and celebrate the rekindling of God's light into the world and put aside our differences and celebrate our common heritages as mankind.  Let us all hope for a peaceful and co-operative future, everywhere."

 May the Chanukah lights of this year bring an end to all the darkness in the world!

The Chanukah Menorah (also known as a Hanukkiah) is lit by Mr Charles Ballin, a member of Luton United Synagogue to mark Chanukah celebrations – the Jewish Festival of Light

Luton Council's Advice on Recycling

Whether it’s wrapping paper, cardboard boxes or excess sprouts, there’s always a lot of waste at Christmas. Help the planet by re-using or recycling well.

Love Food, Hate Waste this Christmas - prevent food waste and save money.

Make sure you put the right stuff in the right bin putting the correct materials in your green recycling bin. Black sacks should not be used for recycling. 

Recycle batteries safely.
 
Christmas trees can be recycled at our tidy tips or by contacting Keech Hospice.

More on waste and recycling