An inspiring interfaith gathering recently brought together people of diverse beliefs and backgrounds to celebrate unity, understanding and shared reverence. The event, titled “God of All People”, marked the 60th anniversary of Nostra Aetate, the landmark declaration of the Second Vatican Council that transformed the Catholic Church’s relationship with non-Christian religions.
Taking place within the Church’s Jubilee Year, which emphasises the theme of hope, the event offered a timely reflection on the enduring importance of dialogue between faiths.
Participants described the discussions as both “inspiring and enlightening”, noting that they provided a unique opportunity to revisit the outcomes of Vatican II and the spirit of openness it encouraged. “It was fascinating to hear perspectives from people of various faiths and to recognise that, despite our differences, we all share a belief in something greater than ourselves, whether we call it God, Allah, Jahve, Brahman or Mother Nature,” one attendee reflected. “That shared sense of reverence was truly moving.”
Although the group was modest in size (around 60), the atmosphere was filled with optimism and respect. The conversations demonstrated that genuine interfaith dialogue is not only possible but deeply enriching, offering a powerful counter-narrative to the divisions often portrayed in the media.
The main address was given by Fr. Adrian Graffy, who spoke on the significance of Nostra Aetate and its lasting impact over six decades. He was joined by speakers from the Sathya Sai Hindu Organization UK, Al Azeemia Sufi Order UK, and members of Walthamstow Women’s Interfaith Group, each offering insights from their respective traditions and view on the relationship between different faiths.
For 60 years, Nostra Aetate has inspired the Catholic Church’s outreach to followers of other religions, promoting cooperation, friendship and mutual respect in the pursuit of truth, justice and peace. As one participant remarked: “Interreligious dialogue has proven to be a powerful means of healing wounds, preventing conflict and building bridges of harmony in a fragmented world.”
Said one attendee: “My understanding of the importance of Nostra Aetate was greatly increased and deepened by Fr Graffy, and I came away from the event full of hope and joy. It felt like a breath of fresh air to hear speakers talking of their faiths with such passion while focusing on the similarities and the shared devotions between our beliefs. There was so much hope in the sharing and a deep desire to continue moving forward – and, of course, this couldn’t come at a more crucial time, when we are witness to such division around us.” This was emphasised eloquently by a young university student, brought up in a multi-religious home, who said that while he has hope he also has concerns about what he sees transpiring around him.
This anniversary celebration, which ended with an act of silent prayer and the joining of hands, served as a vivid reminder that when people of faith come together in dialogue and openness, they help illuminate the shared path toward peace and understanding.
“The message of Nostra Aetate has never been more important, and opportunities for all faiths to come together and share in the beauty and praise of God can only be for the good,” added one attendee.
Pictured: Rev. John Armitage( Dean of Newham), Rev. Adrian Graffy (Parish Priest, Gidea Park), Raphi Samuels (university student, Kings College), Rozina Iqbal ( Azeemia Sufi order), Bala Balaraman (Sathya Sai Hindu Organisation UK), Jocelyne Quennell (Director of Wellbeing Faculty, University of East London), Rev. Britto Belevendran (Brentwood Diocese Interfaith Lead) and Rev. Paul Fox (Parish Priest, Rayleigh).
Picture courtesy of John Woodhouse
Report written by Francesca Bartoli-Greenwood and Amanda Pelham
Read a more detailed report by Jocelyne Quennell here: Nostra Aetate celebration