Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire churches to hear Muslim experiences
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left to right Major Gerald Peacock, Professor Mona Siddiqui, Elizabeth Harris, The Rt Revd Richard Inwood
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Prominent academic and Muslim contributor to Radio 4’s ‘Thought for the Day’ Professor Mona Siddiqui is to tell churches in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire about her experience of being Muslim and living in a Christian culture. The long-planned event is of particular significance following comments today against inter-faith relations from an extremist Muslim preacher.
She will be speaking at a one-day event to be held at the University of Hertfordshire on Tuesdsay 11 th September. Elizabeth Harris, Methodist Church Secretary for Inter Faith Relations will provide the view of a Christian living in a multi-faith society.
The event is aimed at helping to build understanding between Christians and Muslims. It will help the Churches to learn more about how Muslims practise their faith and how they respond to Christians doing the same.
The event is a clear sign of the dialogue and friendship between Muslims and Christians, already well established in Britain and in St Albans Diocese. This event offers a further step in deepening friendship and understanding.
The Bishop of Bedford, the Right Reverend Richard Inwood will deliver the closing remarks. Speaking today in advance of the conference he responded to recent reports that extremist voices are trying to disrupt relations between Muslims and Christians:
“In my experience, most Muslims welcome close relationships with Christians. Most Muslims welcome the robust practise of Christianity and celebration of our festivals. They are not in the least offended by this. Some, usually secularist, voices claim they are. We must not be put off by those voices and we must not allow extremists who want nothing to do with those of another faith to disrupt the friendship between Christians and other faiths.
“The confident but gracious practice of our faith, being ready to know others and to be known by them makes for better community relations.
“We have a long tradition of tolerance in Britain, based on Christian love and getting to know and understand others. It values people whatever their race or creed.”
Professor Siddiqui added:
“When Christians and Muslims talk to each other, God is present. Believers know deep inside that whatever differences they have, their faith is always enlarged and humbled by conversations with one another.”
The day is being organised by Churches Together in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire.
