Jews and Muslims united for peace in England

On Oct 15, 2023

RELIGIONS NEWS AGENCY (REDNA) – Amid killing war in Palestine and death of both Jewish and Muslims in Palestine, the Jews and Muslims in Manchester, England united to protect each other.

Manchester Evening News reported each from different faiths, they look to elevate the things that unite them above the forces that would divide them. And now, with the outbreak of war between Israel and Hamas, the work of Greater Manchester’s interfaith leaders has never been more relevant.

As people dedicated to peace, they have urged residents across the city region, thousands of miles away from Israel, to keep talking to each other – stressing that Manchester is greater because those of different religious, political and emotional persuasions all share their lives here together.

Collectively, they have urged people to be there for each other and continue to support one another, preaching the importance of dialogue, respect and mutual empathy.

Rabbi Warren Elf MBE, a father-of-five from north Manchester, is co-chair of Faith Network for Manchester. The forum runs projects, conferences and workshops to bring those of different faiths together – and combat common misunderstandings between them – to foster greater cohesion and harmony among all who live here.

He said he felt it was important to speak out amid the continuing human catastrophe unfolding in the region.

Writing passionately for the Manchester Evening News, Rabbi Elf says:

“I am a Jewish man, a faith leader and I believe passionately in the importance of interfaith work and how we can and do make a positive difference, sharing and working together to improve our world.

“I am currently experiencing so many confusing emotions, for me personally and for me in my role as a faith leader. Yet again it revolves round what is going on in Israel and Gaza.