On 10th May, Altrincham Interfaith Group hosted 70 guests at a lively tea party on a sunny May afternoon. People of seven different faiths and none gathered to celebrate unity in diversity. Trafford’s Mayor Jane Brophy welcomed people and said, “I believe it is vital that people of all faiths, and those of no faith, work together for our communities.” At a later point she added “In a world that can sometimes feel divided, opportunities like this matter greatly. They create space for people to meet, listen, learn from one another and strengthen the bonds that hold our communities together.” Ann Angel, chair of the interfaith group, thanked the Mayor both for her words and her efforts throughout her term of office to ensure that the voices of various faith groups could be heard.
We listened to blessings from the representatives of seven faiths and then enjoyed a very tasty tea, provided by the many participants and accompanied by animated conversations. Our speakers then addressed the theme of Interfaith in Action: Sukhbir Singh of the Sikh Community talked about the work of the Greter Manchester Faith and Belief Panel and faith involvement in consultations on climate change across Greater Manchester. Counsellor Eve Parker addressed the recent rise in the incidence of antisemitism, increased Islamophobia and other racist activities and emphasised the need to stand in solidarity with one another against such words and actions. She also described the work of the Trafford Faith Action Network, a partnership between the borough’s elected representatives its officers and its faith communities, in improving areas of dialogue and aiming at practical outcomes. Finally, Michelle Moses, founder of the charity “Hello Buddy”, explained how it brings primary school children of different faiths together for free holiday clubs and other activities, so that they experience these side by side and consequently build new friendships and greater mutual understanding.
Reverend Daud Gill then thanked Blessed Thomas Holford Catholic College for hosting us, the speakers for their illuminating words, the organising committee and the many helpers on the day. Ann Angel concluded with a survey of the past year’s activities and an invitation to attend our Weaving Trust Event on 11th June or join a Friendship Circle for continuing conversations with people of different faiths.
We know that many in our community are suffering from anti-Hindu, anti-Sikh, antisemitic and Islamophobic words and actions and believe that Altrincham Interfaith Group’s activities are more important than ever. We understand from people’s comments following the afternoon that people returned home enriched by their conversations and with greater optimism about our ability to work together for unity across Trafford.
