Communities Secretary Hazel Blears has announced plans for England’s first ever inter-faith week.
‘Inter Faith Week’ will take place from 15 to 21 November to strengthen inter-faith relations and celebrate the contribution of faith groups to society.
"People from different faiths are working at the heart of their communities to help disadvantaged people, including those whose jobs, homes or businesses may be at risk during these challenging economic times,” said Ms Blears.
“It's arguably more important than ever that people of different faiths and beliefs come together and are able to explore what they have in common.
“I hope that 'Inter Faith Week' will help to strengthen these relationships and build stronger bonds of understanding and cooperation.”
Local authorities, schools and other community groups are being encouraged to take part by hosting inter-faith events such as exchange visits between churches and mosques, inter-faith football matches or ‘faith trails’ to different places of worship.
The week is being facilitated by the Inter Faith Network for the UK and the Department for Communities and Local Government.
The Inter Faith Network’s co-chairs, Bishop of Southwark the Rt Rev Tom Butler and Dr Nawal Prinja, said: "We welcome this important opportunity to increase understanding about and between people of different faiths."
-
Evangelical vicar accused of abuse won't stand trial
-
Christians protest LGBT nativity play where Jesus is 'King of the Gays'
-
Sarah Mullally reiterates apology as safeguarding record comes under the spotlight
-
The mystery of the Wise Men
-
The origins of ‘traditional’ Christmas celebrations
-
Pro-life campaigner who silently prayed in abortion clinic buffer zone criminally charged
Most Popular
News
The first Christmas song to be sung in churches
Every Christmas, people sing the song “While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks by Night”. Unlike many other songs and carols that include elements of non-biblical tradition and myth, this song is pure Scripture. It was the first Christmas song authorised to be sung in the Church of England. This is the story …
The story of the Christmas Truce of 1914
On Christmas Eve in 1914, many men were in the trenches fighting the war, but the spirit of Christmas halted the conflict for a brief period. This is the story …
Report highlights injustices experienced by Christians in the Holy Land
Jerusalem Church leaders have released a report detailing the struggles and challenges currently faced be Christians living in the Holy Land.
Have you lost the wonder of Christmas?
For you who have been followers of Jesus Christ for a long time, maybe the pain and suffering of this world and the darkness you have had to live through this past year has gotten you down to the point of complete and utter discouragement. But all is not lost.