One Sunday evening in November there was a large gathering at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Acomb, York, when around 70 guests gathered for the opening event of Interfaith Week titled ‘Who is my neighbour?’
The Lord Mayor and Sheriff of York opened the Week and then York residents of diverse faiths heard inspirational talks from the Lord Lieutenant of North Yorkshire (Barry Dodd CBE), York Central MP (Rachael Maskell), Vice Chair of York Interfaith Group (Imam Abid Salik), and LDS Church Leaders (President Bill Kimberling and Mark Cousins).
Building good relationships and working partnerships between people of different faiths and beliefs is part of the year-round work of many people and organisations across the UK. Having a special Week provides a focal point, so that more people are made aware of the importance of interfaith efforts and are able to participate.
There was also a beautiful ‘a cappella’ musical item by the LDS missionary choir.
Events were held across the city throughout the week with Church members also reaching out to visit and attend those events put on by friends from the other faiths. As always, all members of the public were welcome to attend all events.
Elder Quentin L. Cook of The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught that, 'Respectful and sincere interfaith service not only builds our communities, but also enables us to collectively and individually grow in our love of God and His children.”