20th September 2017

Christians and Muslims gather for reflection event

A group of 70 Muslims and Christians from Blackburn gathered last Saturday at St Silas Church in the town.

Pictured in St Silas Church are, l-r, Dr Irfan Zafar, GP at Roe Lee Surgery; Sabir Esa, deputy chair of the local Conservative party; Imam Fazlurrahman Hassan; Archdeacon Mark Ireland, Rev Sheelagh Aston; Rev Canon Dr Arun John and Imtiaz Hussain, Conservative Councillor for Beardwood and Lammack.

In total, 35 Muslims and 35 Christians met for reflections by Imam Fazlurrahman Hassan and The Venerable Mark Ireland, Archdeacon of Blackburn, on the Qur’anic and Biblical accounts of Abraham’s sacrifice of his son.

The purpose of the day was to get to know one another better, and to promote friendship, respect and trust. After the talks were over everyone shared a delicious meal together.

Archdeacon Mark said: “The gathering was an incredible and moving theological encounter, which I believe has done much to draw together residents from both communities in the West Blackburn/Beardwood area.

“Rev Sheelagh Aston and the congregation of St. Silas were marvellous hosts, and Rev Canon Dr Arun John, Vicar of St James’, Blackburn ended the meeting with closing reflections.”

Rev Aston added: “The event was a collaboration between Christians and Muslims in all aspects; even the meal provided was a joint effort.

“A small team consisting of individuals from St Silas and our Muslim friends worked together to plan and prepare it. 

“The event was a very successful, with a relaxed friendly atmosphere; a great team effort from start to finish.”

Read Archdeacon Mark's reflections.

Read Imam Fazal's reflections.