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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*****************************

NOTES:

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

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

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

The hashtag for social media is #InterFaithWeek.

Inter Faith Week social media accounts can be found at

http://www.twitter.com/IFWeek

http://www.facebook.com/ifweek

http://www.instagram.com/IFWeek

A copy of this press release can also be found at

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

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

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

PostedNovember 19, 2021

AuthorGrassroots Luton

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

https://forms.gle/J6gXE5XzCBdMBQJ9A

For further information please like/follow Facebook Peace Garden Initiative

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

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

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

PostedNovember 19, 2021

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

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

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

Sheila Marsden was one of them.

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

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

My Town Luton

It's the place I know best;

the place of my birth and rites of passage,

where I grew up loved and wanted.

We raised our family here,

and gathered friends, young and not so young.

This town gave me my livelihood,

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

As I reflect on my town -

seeing it changing, as it will always do -

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

I see people around me

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

people who speak up and speak out,

together,

as peacemakers and reconcilers.

I hope their example will rub off on me.

I pray so,

because I feel blessed to be a Lutonian.

And so in my daily living

I will choose to be a maker of peace.

Sheila Marsden, May 2016

PostedNovember 17, 2021

AuthorGrassroots Luton

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

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

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

The Week is open to all and thousands of people of different backgrounds and ages take part directly, with millions encountering its positive messages through social media. Recent years have seen ever more types of organisations taking part, from faith, belief and inter faith organisations, to others such as schools, sports clubs, hospitals and hospices, police, and youth organisations.

Hundreds of bodies have already registered activities for this year’s Week. Coming just after COP26, quite a number of these are focused on environmental issues and how faith communities can help tackle climate change. A sampler of activities can be found here.

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

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

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

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

“Inter Faith Week is a perfect opportunity for people of all beliefs to reach out to and learn from different communities.

“I am proud to live in a country that recognises and respects the rich history of diverse communities in Britain and in my role as Faith Minister, I remain committed to raising awareness across society of inter faith issues.”

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

“We meet together with representatives of the richly diverse communities in our county, to give thanks for all those who have used their skills, their generosity, their compassion and their love to help the people of Bedfordshire come through the enormous challenges we are facing due to the pandemic.
We also join hands to remember all those who have died during this time, recognising that we have not been able to grieve and honour our deceased loved ones in the way in which we would have desired. We bless their memory and put our arms around those who are bereaved.
We look forward in hope, building on what we have learnt about the power of neighbours and communities reaching out one to another and the excellent partnerships that have been formed which have had such a beneficial impact on how we help make things better. The symbols of hope are the saplings that will be blessed and planted in each part of our county.
During the past 18 months, we have seen much suffering, but we have equally seen the light of love as people have gone the extra mile to seek out those who need help. I am so proud that people of Bedfordshire have shown their generosity of spirit in such large measure and am optimistic that we will go forward in our determination to build communities where all feel welcome, at home and are able to flourish.”

Inter Faith Week 2021 Activities In Luton

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PostedNovember 12, 2021

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PostedNovember 12, 2021

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

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

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

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

lutonchristmastoys@salvationarmy.org.uk

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

PostedNovember 11, 2021

AuthorGrassroots Luton

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

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

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

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

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

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

And where governments will not act, people will.“

Jeremy’s full speech can be found here.

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

5 - 11 November 2021
WEEKLY HIGHLIGHT

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

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

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

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

PostedNovember 8, 2021

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

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

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

PostedNovember 5, 2021

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

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

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

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

Read the letter here

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

PostedNovember 5, 2021

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

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

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

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

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

Please read the full letter on the link below.

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

PostedOctober 29, 2021

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PostedOctober 28, 2021

AuthorGrassroots Luton

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GRASSROOTS Luton is a longstanding ecumenical programme of community engagement, supported by different Christian denominations, including Church of England (C of E) St Albans Diocese, The Roman Catholic (RC) Diocese of Northampton, Beds, Essex and Herts (BEH) Methodist District and United Reformed Church (URC) Thames North Synod.

It was a pleasure and privilege to welcome and host on the 27th Oct 2021, the URC Thames North Synod Moderator Revd George Watt to visit GRASSROOTS Luton.

https://urc.org.uk/latest-news/3643-new-moderator-of-urc-s-thames-north-synod-nominated.html

George was born and brought up in the Highlands of Scotland, living most of his childhood in the village of Lairg in Sutherland. His first pastorate was at Freemantle and Isaac Watts Memorial Churches in Southampton. In 1998, he moved to St Andrew’s, Cheam where he was minister for 12 years. George has been the Minister at Reigate Park Church in Surrey for the past ten years.

He is now working with and supporting the churches and ministers of the Thames North Synod of the United Reformed Church (URC).

During his visit to GRASSROOTS Luton, George shared how excited he is by the diverse nature of the Synod and all the richness that it entails.

In the presence of Revd Canon David Lawson, Chair, GRASSROOTS Luton, David Jonathan (Johny), Director, GRASSROOTS Luton presented an overview of the work of GRASSROOTS and talked with George while walking through the Town Centre and Bury Park areas of Luton.

Later two other GRASSROOTS Trustees Revd Maggie Hindley (former Director of London Inter Faith Centre) and Sheila Marsden (Wigmore Church Luton) and Luton based URC Minister Revd Heather Whyte also joined in to exchange greetings.

GRASSROOTS Luton thanked Revd George Watt and the URC Thames North Synod for their continual support to GRASSROOTS and requested everyone to remember the work of GRASSROOTS in prayers.

At the end of walk & talk through Bury Park area of Luton, a fellowship Lunch was served at one of the Luton restaurants.

L to R: Revd Heather Whyte (Luton URC Minister), Revd Maggie Hindley (GRASSROOTS Trustee), Revd George Watt (URC Thames North Synod Moderator), Revd Canon David Lawson (Chair, GRASSROOTS), David Jonathan (Director, GRASSROOTS) & Sheila Marsden (GRASSROOTS Trustee)

PostedOctober 27, 2021

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In 2018 British Muslim TV, Church Times and Jewish News, together with Coexist House, joined forces for the 21 for 21 project to identify inspiring individuals aged under 40 who are increasing dialogue and breaking down barriers – particularly as volunteers but also in their working lives.

We are extremely proud that our colleague Mohammad Ryad Khodabocus was identified and nominated in this project and was one of the 21 Award Winners selected across the country.

Ryad continues to inspire and educate young people on interfaith projects while working with Luton Council of Faiths, GRASSROOTS & Near Neighbours Programme.

From Oct 14 -15, 2021, Ryad and all the other 21 award winners were invited to stay at St Georges House Windsor Castle as a guest of the house.

Ryad was invited to present and pitch a project on “Mental Health with a Heart” along with a fellow award-winning colleague from the Jewish community. The result was astounding. A news headline read “£70,000 raised for trail-blazing interfaith projects at Windsor Castle.”

Please read the full article here.

https://jewishnews-timesofisrael-com.cdn.ampproject.org/c/s/jewishnews.timesofisrael.com/70000-raised-for-trail-blazing-interfaith-projects-at-windsor-castle/amp/

OR

https://www.churchtimes.co.uk/215830

PostedOctober 21, 2021

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https://www.eventbrite.com/e/audience-with-hall-of-fame-of-black-racing-drivers-tickets-189292016517

We all know about Sir Lewis Hamilton’s achievements. But did you know that there were Black racing drivers who race back in the 70’s,80’s, 90’s and 00’s. Join this event in association with WACA for this Black History month to listen to the stories from Tony Chambers, Winston Graham , Clive Anderson, Brandon Abrahams and Carol Glenn. Interviewer will be Dee Bailey from Realtalk with Simply Deez. Come along in person to listen and ask Q&A

Luton Carnival Arts Centre, 3 St Marys Road, Luton, Beds LU1 3JA

Doors open for 18:00 Event starts at 19:00 – 20:30

Only Register here if you want to attend in person .

or you can join us via Zoom - Click the link : https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89296811026?pwd=WWQ4dHpQRHJST1UxQXFuckhxRmpwZz09#

Meeting ID: 892 9681 1026Passcode: 694554

If Zoom gets over subscribed it will also be streamed on Twitch - Link details to follow shortly

If you would like to have a have a table top exhibition on the day - please contact Carol Glenn on carollglenn@hotmail.com for further details

Timings for Luton Carnival Arts Centre

18:00 - 19:00 Doors open - Networking and Exhibitors

19:00 Event commences

20:30 Event finishes - Networking and Exhibitors

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/audience-with-hall-of-fame-of-black-racing-drivers-tickets-189292016517

PostedOctober 21, 2021

AuthorGrassroots Luton

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The recent brutal stabbing of MP Sir David Amess, during his regular constituency surgery, has left everyone feeling shocked and appalled.

For most people he was known as a man who dedicated his life to serving them. He is being remembered by many as a kind gentleman with a big heart.

Zafar Khan, Chair, Luton Council of Faiths said, “We are deeply saddened at this heartbreaking incident. We have always unequivocally condemned, in strongest terms, any such barbaric and inhuman acts of terrorism & violence against innocent people. Our heartfelt condolences go to all the friends and family of Sir David Amess and also to the people of our nation.”

“Luton’s faith communities have always stood tall and we continue to stand together in solidarity with people across the UK and send a strong message of defiance to all extremists, that we will not be divided”, he added.

In a recently held Climate Justice event, held at the footsteps of Luton Town Hall, Zafar Khan, had said, “We must continue to strive for justice and fairness for all in our world. Together with our shared values of compassion we can indeed make a difference.”

Expressing solidarity with all, David Jonathan working with Grassroots, Luton Council of Faiths & Near Neighbours Programme in Luton said, “we deplore such an outrageously criminal and cowardly act. Near Neighbours Programme has always been supportive of all initiatives that bring communities together. We therefore entirely reject any act or message that causes discord and discomfort in community relations.”

The family of David Amess are suffering and yet they have asked people to let go of hate, seeking a positive outcome to an horrific event. Let us, in our interactions, continue to model the spirit and commitment to work together with one another that both Sir David and Jo Cox shared: “We have far more in common than that which divides us”.

You can also download the full statement here.

Luton’s faith communities outside Salvation Army (Vicarage St.) during Annual Peace Walk (before Covid-19) organised by Luton Council of Faiths and supported by GRASSROOTS & Near Neighbours Programme

PostedOctober 18, 2021

AuthorGrassroots Luton

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Several of Luton’s faith communities, places of worship, faith organisations and individuals of no particular religious affiliation have been working tirelessly to support

In its statement, Luton Council claimed Luton to be a caring and compassionate town which will do whatever it can to support people in need.

https://www.lutontoday.co.uk/news/people/luton-ready-to-do-all-we-can-to-help-afghan-refugees-fleeing-taliban-3358080

https://www.lutontoday.co.uk/news/people/luton-communitys-support-for-afghan-refugees-overwhelming-and-humbling-3369146

https://www.bedfordshirelive.co.uk/news/bedfordshire-news/luton-residents-overwhelming-generosity-afghan-5864488

However, thinking of the strain placed on the town, the Luton Council called upon the government to share the refugee load more fairly. Hazel Simmons MBE, Leader of the Council said “we are under a lot of pressure and we don’t want our community’s generosity being taken advantage of”.

Prior to the latest influx of refugees from Afghanistan, Luton’s All Saints Church had been working to support the asylum seekers and refugees placed in Luton. The Church Hall had turned into clothing bank as donations poured in during the winter to support friends in need of warm clothing.

Acknowledging the work undertaken by the All Saints Church, which is now supported by several other Churches, faith communities and organisations including Care for Calais and the neighbouring Medina Mosque and Luton’s Discover Islam Centre, the Church of England Diocese of St Albans has produced a powerful and moving film titled “This is Church”, which can be viewed here.

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

In her short reflection shared towards the end of the film, Revd Jo Burke of All Saints Church is heard saying, “Start with the Gospel - The Good Samaritan’s Story is the obvious one or look at Matthew 25: 35-40 where Jesus says I was hungry you fed me. I was stranger you welcomed me. That’s all you need. Just live it in whatever way it is relevant in your setting.”

Refugees Film by CofE St Albans Diocese on Refugees support work in Luton undertaken by All Saints Church.JPG

PostedOctober 15, 2021

AuthorGrassroots Luton

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With the UK hosting COP26, many people in the UK are walking/travelling to Glasgow or London to put pressure on the governments and demand action for climate justice, but there are many people who will be taking action in their own local areas too.

https://cop26coalition.org/

The COP26 Coalition, a network of groups mobilising around climate justice for COP26, has called on concerned individuals and groups to demand system change by organising a demo or action wherever they are in the world. This will be a day to join movements from around the world in taking action for climate justice.

Take & join the action in your local area and online. Join the COP-26 Coalition Day of Action on 6 November 1 pm at Luton Town Hall

Climate Change Global Day of Action 6th Nov'21 (2).JPG

Climate Change Global Day of Action 6th Nov'21.JPG

https://www.lutontoday.co.uk/news/environment/campaign-to-save-a-luton-park-from-airport-related-development-taken-to-cop26-climate-change-conference-3440428

PostedOctober 15, 2021

AuthorGrassroots Luton

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In an open letter, 1.8 million Fairtrade farmers and workers are calling for urgent action, asking governments at COP26 to be fair with their $100 billion climate promise. Their letter outlines four key actions that will help protect global food supplies and limit further damage. Please read & support the letter on the link below;

https://www.fairtrade.org.uk/cop26-be-fair-with-your-climate-promise/

PostedOctober 13, 2021

AuthorGrassroots Luton

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https://www.lutontoday.co.uk/news/people/get-ready-to-party-with-diwali-in-luton-3410533

Award-winning dance acts, cultural music, top Asian singers and a spectacular miniature parade are on the line-up for Diwali in Luton this month on Saturday 30th October 2021 at St George’s Square from 12noon to 7.30pm. Dramatic fireworks display from the rooftop of The Mall shopping centre is not to be missed.

PROGRAMME highlights include

12noon: Kajal and Gillie, Lyca Radio Hosts and DJ

1.15pm : Next Generation Youth Theatre, a local theatre and dance group

1.30 pm: Olivia Lynn, British country singer and rising star from Luton

2.45pm: K’z Entertainment – Bollywood dancers

3.00pm: Swarni Arts - Garba Dance

3.30pm: Gevanni Hutton - The Voice UK Finalist 2020

4pm: JIYA, a fusion of Hindi and English music

5pm: Bhangra Smash Up, a fusion of mainstream western sounds with traditional bhangra beats, using the Indian dhol and dholak

5.30pm: Jaz Dhami, a talented British Indian singer-composer who combines Punjabi and Bollywood

6:30pm PARADE & FIREWORK FINALE

Keep up to date with all the latest on Diwali in Luton at: www.diwaliinluton.co.uk

Watch the Diwali in Luton 2019 Video Highlight here https://youtu.be/3K9DAVNYcPs

PostedOctober 12, 2021

AuthorGrassroots Luton

CommentPost a comment

Climate Change is the biggest challenge facing our world today.

Ahead of COP26, nearly 70 years old British south Indian climate activist Pushpanath Krishnamurthy (called Push) is completing an epic walk for climate justice (400 miles or one million steps) from London to Glasgow from 2nd October to 2nd November 2021.

Many faith leaders and community members gathered at the footsteps of the Luton Town Hall to cheer him saying ‘Go Push Go’.

Mayor of Luton Cllr Mahmood Hussain said, “With its declaration of a climate emergency, the Luton Council is confronting climate change as a priority and has pledged Luton as a carbon neutral town by 2040.”

Chair of Luton Council of Faiths Prof Zafar Khan said, “Our gathering today signifies unity of purpose and unity of action for climate justice. Climate emergencies are affecting parts of the world, where many of Luton’s diverse communities come from.”

Thanking Push for his efforts, Zafar Khan said, “You represent Luton and we are united in our collective quest for climate justice.”

Many other faith leaders contributed what climate justice means in their respective faith communities and what are they doing about it.

David Jonathan (Johny), working with Grassroots, Near Neighbours and Luton Council of Faiths said, “As people of faith, we believe God created the world and God created us all to be the caretakers. Sadly, we didn’t take enough care and have polluted the earth to an extent that the earth, our home (in Pope Francis’s words) is beginning to look like an immense pile of filth.

Climate activist Push said, “I am overwhelmed by the Luton hospitality and feel greatly encouraged and enthused by the support and the immense sense of fraternity shown by Luton. The quest for peace and justice work in Luton is commendable.”

He said, “Climate change is already happening and it is sad that the poorest people who have done the least to create the problem are suffering its worst impacts.”

“Hence our collective quest for climate justice is much needed”.

To support Push, please visit https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/GoPushGo