The United Religions Initiative UK is not strong enough or old enough to make instant statements on political issues or news stories. Nevertheless all who are committed to the use of Religion to provide an enriched, hopeful, purposeful and cohesive society will be immensely saddened to know that Religion is closely associated with the terrorist bombings in various cities – not least in London.

It is tragic that in a largely secular society, where only a small percentage of the people claim to be committed to spiritual practice, the spiritual people are seen to be involved in war. History repeats itself and we are saddened, frustrated and depressed. Nevertheless this is our chosen path – to be involved in finding ways of peace between the religions; to be involved in Inter Faith work. We recognise that the Faith Groups are prone to fear and we know that society at large uses the Faith Groups to justify their actions and to express the feelings of discontent and unease within their own lives. URI will continue to stimulate bridge building between faith groups and to encourage friendships and conversations which will show that diversity in all its richness is a blessing and not a threat to civilisation.

We have been encouraged by the Government’s commitment to work with the Faith Groups and we have been asked to host a national conference, before the next meeting of the World Parliament of Religions, of all involved in practical inter faith encounters throughout the country. We do not at present see how this can be facilitated but we shall continue to hold on to the idea and hope to share it with other Inter Faith agencies.

Mandip Singh Sohal.
Chairman
URI UK

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