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.