Over the last few years Jews, Christians and Muslims from around Greater Manchester have been coming together to hold dialogue, social and charitable events.
December 2008 marks one of the rare occasions when religious festivals from the three faiths fall in the same month. The festivals are: Christmas, Eid ul Adhaa and Chanukah.
Cllr Afzal Khan, Co-Chair of the Muslim Jewish Forum said, “our joint celebration provides a wonderful opportunity for followers of the three faiths to exchange festive greetings, socialise and learn about each others faiths. As with all good festivals children will have a great time with the range of fun activities and present giving we are putting on”.
The Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, Hazel Blears MP will also be joining in the celebration. Bob Day, of the Christian Muslim Forum said, “we’re really pleased the Minister has accepted our invitation. Hazel has responsibility for the Government’s Inter Faith Strategy so we’re looking forward to telling her and all our guests about all the excellent work we’ve been doing in recent years to bring people together”.
David Arnold, Jewish Vice-Chair of the Council of Christians and Jews, said: “This festive season is a great opportunity to foster our sense of friendship and community with those who share our values. And all will be welcome to come and join the fun!”
The celebration takes place on Sunday 14 December, 2 to 5pm at Manchester Reform Synagogue, Jackson’s Row (off St Peter’s Square), Manchester, M2 5NH. If anyone would like to attend then please email Heather Fletcher at: legalactress@googlemail.com giving names and the ages of any children. Booking is essential.
