peace

Common Action and Symbolism

Common Action: As people of different faiths meet and get to know each other they will begin to talk about a range of issues. Some will discuss theology and philosophy, others will want to learn about ways of prayer and meditation. Some will want to engage together in social action or witness. Some governments are also becoming more aware of the important contribution that faith communities can make to national life.

The British government, for example, has invited the help of faith communities in the regeneration of inner city areas. It has also seen that the affirmation of shared values can help to unify the nation.

An example of common action by members of three religions is the work of the Three Faiths Forum, which brings together Jews, Christians and Muslims. This has sought to emphasise the common ethical concerns of the three religions and to dispel prejudice and misrepresentation by the media. It has issued statements condemning all forms of violence in the Middle East and in the Balkans and denouncing acts of terror. Amongst its many activities, the Three Faiths Forum has established a medical group which has discussed issues such as genetic engineering and euthanasia.

In Britain, it is also being recognised that at a local level civic religious occasions need to be inclusive and no longer the preserve of Christianity. If a service is held to mark the inauguration of a new mayor, it may be held in a Sikh gurdwara or Hindu temple rather than a church. Some Mayors have arranged gatherings to which they invite representatives of all local faith communities to join in prayer. The question has also been raised whether representatives of all faiths will be invited to participate in the next coronation service, which has traditionally been an Anglican occasion.

The situation is different in each country in Europe, but public symbolism is important. Are faith communities seen to act together for the good of the whole community? This is not the image conveyed by television of the situation in Northern Ireland or former Yugoslavia or Sri Lanka. Small interfaith groups, however, can begin to change the situation and act as a leaven that will transform society. In Belfast, for example, the Interfaith Forum has provided a beautiful interfaith mediation room at the airport.

Buildings themselves can be symbolic. St Ethelburga Church in the City of London which was ruined by a terrorist bomb is soon, however, now houses the St Ethelburga Centre for Reconciliation and Peace and will focus attention on the role of the faith communities in preventing and transforming conflict. It is hoped, in the words of Richard Chatres, the Bishop of London, that ‘the Centre will involve dialogue between different faith communities and work with those individuals who acknowledge the spiritual dimension of peacemaking, but who would not want to associate themselves with any religious institution. In view of the Centre’s location in the City of London, he adds, ‘it is also crucial to explore potential partnerships with business networks.’

Two other churches, Coventry Cathedral and the Frauenkirche in Dresden, which were destroyed in cities which were devestated by blanket bombing have also become centres of work for reconciliation and symbols of the power of faith to turn enmity to friendship .