Hundreds gathered in Oxford last week to take part in the 21st annual Oxford Interfaith Peace and Friendship Walk.
People of many faiths and none, along with civic leaders and Oxford MP Annaliese Dodds, walked between three different places of worship and stopped in Radcliffe Square.
The walkers, including Bishop Steven, co-chair of the Oxford Civic, Community and Faith Leaders Group, were welcomed at the synagogue in Richmond Road, Bath Street Mosque and St Gile’s Church where reflections were shared with those gathered.
Bishop Steven read Psalm 127: “Unless the Lord keeps the city the watchmen keep watch in vain.” He went on to talk about the immense value of the Peace and Friendship Walk and the need to continue to build strong relationships across the city and county in the light of unfolding world events.
Imam Monawar Hussain, co-chair of the Oxford Civic, Community and Faith Leaders Group, described the event as ‘hugely inspiring’.
In summing up the event, Annaliese Dodds remembered what the ‘Walk Pledge’ says: “…we take risks to journey together as we face the challenges ahead; and we pray for new beginnings.”
Read about the diocese's interfaith work.
Photo Jawaid Malik.