Bishop Martyn recently attended a high-level interfaith discussion in the House of Lords. Representatives of different faith communities were present, including the new Minister of State for Faith and Communities, Miatta Fahnbulleh, and the new interfaith adviser to the Prime Minister, Dilwar Hussain.
The meeting was called to address the perceived breakdown in community relations following the conflict in Gaza and Israel, as well as local disturbances in many towns and cities last summer.
All those present were united in their view that the country faces very serious challenges in terms of relationships between different faith communities, even in places where these relationships have traditionally been very strong, e.g. Leicester.
Leicester was however held up as an example because of the recent developments around becoming an "intercultural city". This was seen as a creative new approach to interfaith relations which goes beyond just faith leaders and involves whole communities in growing cultural awareness and understanding. In addition, it aims to involve a younger generation who have largely refused to get involved in traditional interfaith structures.
The participants also called on the government to develop a clear strategy for social cohesion. They were clear in saying that the government cannot address these challenges alone, but they can create an environment which encourages interfaith partnerships in local communities. And the government also has a particular role when it comes to fake news being shared on social media (a significant factor in recent unrest).
Further meetings of the group are likely to follow, and Bishop Martyn has also been invited to address an interfaith gathering in Brussels as part of the European Commission looking at community cohesion.
Inter Faith week begins on Sunday (9 November) and is a time to remember together the contributions of all faiths and none, and to consider how best we can create a just, peaceful, and harmonious world. Read more here.