Pilgrims on our annual interfaith outing, the Unity in Faith Walk, received a warm welcome at a Church, a Mosque, and a Temple on 21 June. Led by Sue Ward, a great friend of Northampton Interfaith Forum, the walk sought to trace parts of the history of the Great Fire of Northampton.
Walkers gathered at All Saints’ Church where they heard something of the church’s destruction in 1675, and the aid effort that rebuilt it. Moving on to St Katherine’s Gardens, and to the site of a medieval burial ground and a lost church, they paused for a time – in a place dedicated to peace – to pray for the peace of the world, amid so much global conflict.
Warm hospitality was offered at St George’s Street Mosque, thanks to the arrangements of NIFF committee member Abdul Ali, where they were greeted by representatives of the Mosque Committee, the resident Imam, and young people who take Quranic classes on a Saturday including a recitation by a young hafiz.
Walkers continued on past Northampton New Life Church and St Mary’s Street, where the fire started, partly tracing some of the ancient town hall. The weather was generally clement but very hot and humid, meaning we gratefully received offers of water and snacks on the way.
The final stop was to the Gurdwara on St James’ Mill Road where a tour of the Temple, the Sikh Museum and the facilities, concluded with a delicious lunch courtesy of the Langa Seva volunteers.
A huge thank you to those who turned out from across our communities, and to all who received us and fed us.
The interfaith walk will return next year as we seek to grow in respect, understanding, and friendship.
