NI Interfaith Forum a model for discussing issues that involve people of all faiths and none
NI future includes people of all faiths and none
It was formed in 1993, following extensive discussions with members of the ethnic and religious communities in Northern Ireland. It is still the only fully operational multi-faith association that functions across Northern Ireland.
The Forum aims to promote mutual understanding between different faith traditions and to raise awareness in Northern Ireland that it is not a region of two traditions only; but a vibrant community with people of many faiths and none from varied religious and ethnic backgrounds.
This week I was delighted to be asked to chair an Interfaith Forum panel discussion on Faith and the Environment, looking after our common home.
The panel included Rabbi David Stringer (a warm and knowledgeable teacher), Rev Dr Mark Gray from Bannside Presbyterian Church (forthright and deeply intellectual), Dr Azadeh Soubout (compassionate and spiritual) and Peter Baillie (a passionate environment specialist).
The most uplifting theme was a cross-faith commitment by those representing the Christian, Muslim and Jewish communities to prioritise stewardship of the earth and to right the wrongs of the past in taking the earth for granted, especially by the affluent West.
The interfaith unanimity and care for each other was manifest and uplifting – although not a surprise for those of us present at these events in the past.
The audience were left in no doubt of the need for urgency because the impact of climate change will be felt most by the poorest communities and countries; those who had not caused the global warming of recent decades and centuries.
The faith leaders committed to further raising awareness in their communities and in their congregations.
More events like this are needed.
Here is how to learn more about the interfaith forum or indeed to get involved.
Peter Osborne 