Author: xtreamlab

Everyones hearts are feeling for the people of France at the moment.
This is an absolutely disgusting attack on innocent people. No sane
human could justify such behaviour. Even in the animal Kingdom animals
don’t behave this way towards each other. This isn’t just an attack on France
but an attack on all of us in Europe.

Let’s pray that Allah helps the victims and their
families at this difficult time. Ameen.

Let’s pray that Allah brings these evil people who carried
out these attacks to justice swiftly. Ameen.

Let’s pray that as a continent we have the courage and
resolve to stay united and stand together in the face of
such an abhorrent act of evil. Ameen.

Rizwan Ahmed
(Muslim Chaplain Bristol University)

The terrorist attacks in Paris and inter faith relations in the UK: Statement from the Co-Chairs and Vice-Chairs of the Inter Faith Network for the UK:

 

We have watched with deep concern the news unfolding of coordinated murders,  injury and destruction in terrorist attacks in Paris.  Our prayers are with all affected by this atrocity.

A jihadist motive is described in news coverage.

Terrorism has many faces. Sometimes it wears the mask of religion, claiming a justification in religious teaching for its acts.  This is rejected in the strongest terms by faith communities.

Terrorists have as their aim the creation of a climate of fear and uncertainty. Their victory begins the moment that people can no longer live in trust and with a sense of shared citizenship.  In Britain, we live with the reality of the impact of international terrorism, feeling the shockwaves of events such as those in Paris as well as in other places around the world.   In such a context, we need to build on the solid history of inter community relations in the UK.  Let us not allow the wedge of suspicion and distrust to be driven between our communities.

Inter Faith Week is under way in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.  One of its themes this year is ‘Living Well Together’.  The events that the Week will see are a reminder of the reality and the importance of a positive coexistence.  Tackling tough issues is part of this and on the agenda are those such as extremism, freedom of expression and responding to social ills such as poverty.  Inter faith discussion and engagement does not just focus on easy issues; it is not just the province of those who agree.  It is a challenging and vital process that needs, increasingly, to be part of the common discourse of our society.

We conclude, as we began, with our concern and sympathy for our near neighbours in France at this time.

The Rt Revd Richard Atkinson OBE (Co-Chair)

Vivian Wineman (Co-Chair)

Maulana M Shahid Raza OBE (Vice-Chair)

Dr Natubhai Shah MBE (Vice-Chair)

Lord Singh of Wimbledon CBE (Vice-Chair)

Bristol Multi-Faith Forum AGM and Conference was held on 10th November between 3pm and 6pm in the main hall at the Barton Hill Settlement, 43 Ducie Rd, Barton Hill, Bristol, BS5 0AX. The short AGM was followed by our conference on the theme of City of Sanctuary. We also invited new members to join our Management Committee. About 30 people attended and took part in the discussions. A report and photos of the event will follow shortly.

To see a poster click here