Faith Leaders Statements of Support

Photo of faith leaders at 2009 launch, Lambeth Palace

As part of the inaugural Inter Faith Week in 2009, the then Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams, hosted an event attended by Faith Community Leaders. At the event, participants signed a statement acknowledging the value of, and representing their commitment to, interfaith work.

 

British Sikh Consultative Forum (BSCF) 

The British Sikh Consultative Forum (BSCF) proudly supports UK Interfaith Week, a celebration of understanding, respect, and shared humanity across different traditions. As Sikhs, we are guided by the teachings of the 10 Sikh Gurus, who emphasised the oneness of humanity, equality, and service to all. These values motivate us to work alongside people of all faiths and none, building stronger, more compassionate, and inclusive communities.

UK Interfaith Week offers a vital opportunity to celebrate the rich diversity of our nation, deepen understanding between different traditions, and strengthen the bonds of friendship and trust that unite us.

At a time when divisions too often dominate the headlines, we believe it is more important than ever to highlight the values we share of respect, kindness, justice, and a commitment to the common good.

The BSCF reaffirms its dedication to working collaboratively. We aim to build strong partnerships with interfaith organisations, community groups, and public institutions, fostering dialogue, understanding, and cooperation. By uniting, we can ensure that the UK remains a society where diversity is valued and everyone can thrive.

The Sikh faith, rooted in the teachings of the Guru Granth Sahib Ji, affirms that all people are connected through the same divine light: “Everything is the Light; all beings are within the creation. From the One Light, the entire universe emerged - so who is good, and who is bad?” (Guru Granth Sahib Ji, Ang 1349)

Our scriptures remind us that while people may use different names for the Divine - Ram, Allah, Khuda, or Gosain. There is but One Creator: “Some call the One Ram, some call the One Khuda; some serve the One as Gosain, some as Allah.”  (Guru Granth Sahib Ji, Ang 885)

True faith, Sikhi teaches, is measured not by labels or divisions but by how we live with compassion and virtue: “Recognise the Light within all, and do not consider social class or status; there are no classes or castes in the world hereafter.” (Guru Granth Sahib Ji, Ang 349)

The Gurus call us to see every person as part of the one human family: “No one is my enemy, no one is a stranger; I get along with everyone.”  (Guru Granth Sahib Ji, Ang 1299)

UK Interfaith Week reminds us of our responsibility to build bridges of understanding and stand together for the common good.

The BSCF reaffirms its commitment to interfaith dialogue, friendship, and cooperation, guided by the timeless Sikh principle that all humanity is one.

Ms Inderpal Kaur Singh, Faith & Community Engagement Officer, British Sikh Consultative Forum

 

Hindu Council UK

Hindu Council UK is committed to raising awareness of faith communities and promoting understanding among people of different religious and non-religious beliefs. HCUK wholeheartedly supports Interfaith Week as it gives opportunities to create a better future and put an end to discrimination and hatred.. It brings different faiths and backgrounds together to celebrate and learn from each other. Through interfaith week activities, we can unite in common cause and promote mutual respect between different religions and beliefs.

Interfaith dialogues help to diffuse tensions that result from misunderstandings about the faith beliefs of other religions. It promotes harmony between all people regardless of their faith. Interfaith week activities highlight core values that are shared by all religions - values like compassion, respect, love hope and peace. These core values are necessary for sustaining life in all communities.

Krishna Bhan, Chair, Hindu Council UK 

 

The Pagan Federation

The Pagan Federation wholeheartedly welcomes Interfaith Week 2025. This annual week offers a meaningful opportunity for people of all faiths and beliefs to stand alongside one another in service, dialogue, and solidarity.

This year’s theme, “Community: Together We Serve. Serving others, sharing values, building belonging,” reflects values that lie at the very heart of interfaith work. Interfaith Week shines a light on the good work being done by local faith-based and interfaith groups across the country, drawing new participants into learning and cooperation, and fostering greater interaction among people of diverse backgrounds. It celebrates our diversity while recognising the many values that we share, helping us build stronger, more neighbourly communities.

From a Pagan perspective, the Week resonates deeply with our commitment to interconnectedness, reverence for community, and shared responsibility for the well-being of all living beings. Pagans across the UK take pride in contributing to local and national interfaith initiatives, and in bringing our own voices, traditions, and practices into dialogue with others. By doing so, we add to the richness of the collective  tapestry of faith and belief in our society.In the spirit of this year’s theme—serving others, sharing values, building belonging—the Pagan Federation reaffirms its commitment to interfaith engagement, collaboration, and the cultivation of inclusive, harmonious communities for all.

Mike Stygal, National Interfaith Manager, The Pagan Federation

 

Quakers in Britain

On behalf of Quakers in Britain, I'm delighted to offer our support for Inter Faith Week 2025. This week is a crucial opportunity to celebrate the diverse tapestry of beliefs and traditions that enrich our society and to strengthen the bonds of friendship between people of all faiths and none. As Quakers, we believe that building a peaceful and just world is rooted in our relationships with each other. By engaging in open, respectful dialogue and working together on issues of common concern, we can break down barriers and build more compassionate and resilient communities.

Inter Faith Week reminds us that despite our differences, we share a common humanity and a shared responsibility to care for our neighbours. We stand in solidarity with everyone working to build bridges and foster mutual respect. We support you as you continue this crucial work.

In friendship and solidarity,

Judith Baker, Ecumenical & Interfaith Officer and Conciliation & Peacebuilding Coordinator, Quakers in Britain

 

 

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