Let’s build bridges and pray for peace.
Pope Francis constantly urged everyone to build bridges, not walls, and to work and pray for peace. He was also a strong advocate of interfaith dialogue. In 2019, he and the Grand Imam Ahmad Al-Tayeb signed a document declaring that ‘God has created all human beings equal in rights, duties and dignity and has called them to live together as brothers and sisters.’
In our own diocese, a group of Christian and Muslim women has met annually since 2021 to pray for peace in the ruins of St Mary’s Chapel in Jesmond. St. Mary’s chapel was once an important medieval shrine to Our Lady, so it provides a suitable and very tranquil setting to honour Mary, the mother of Jesus, and to pray for peace.
Following both examples, we will meet at 2.30 pm on Saturday 14 June in St Mary’s Chapel, and it would be wonderful if you could join us. The shrine is situated towards the Jesmond Dene end of Reid Park Road, but by car, you need to approach from Osborne Road. Some folding chairs will be provided, but you might like to bring your own.
In the shrine, we share readings about Mary from the Bible and the Qur’an, some hymns, and prayers for peace. We then proceed either by car, or on foot to Holy Name Parish Hall for some vegetarian refreshments and a chance to share ideas. Holy Name Parish Hall is on Towers Avenue, about half a mile from the shrine.
Traditionally, this event is limited to women and children only. However, men accompanying their families are now also welcome to attend. It is open to those of all faiths and none, keen to promote unity and understanding between peoples and to pray for peace.
For further information contact:
Maria Mackenzie on 07796 372316,
Hengameh Ashraf Emami on 07912 749017,
Mary McLoughlin on 0191 285 0391, or email: interreligious.relations@diocesehn.org.uk.
Download a poster here.