Other Faiths – Inter Faith Relations
Since time began, people have asked questions about where the world came from, who they are, and what their purpose is in life. Answers to these mysteries have been discovered in the glorious differences of the many cultures and diverse natures of the world and we who live in it
In the Diocese of Truro, we strive to have a sympathetic and empathetic outlook alongside those with whom we live. In this age of instant global communication and media, we are far more aware of the many ways of being and living our lives and we embrace each persons wish to follow their chosen path.
Many will say that there is more to life than just the physical dimension - the here and now - and some say that by living life in a certain way, the answers about life can be glimpsed. When we use mere words to describe our chosen paths in life there is always a risk that others may not understand or appreciate the breadth and depth of their meaning, so some may use "The Truth" or "Absolute or Ultimate Reality", others may refer to this as God. Within this is a lifetime's searching and a whole possibility of entering into an understanding and appreciation of other cultures and ways of following traditions, faiths and beliefs.
It is often perceived that in Cornwall there is a monoculture regarding faith - Christianity. This could not be further from the truth. Within the county there are thriving communities of Moslems, Buddhists, Baha'i, Jews as well as other less prominent faith groups.
Although the main description of a faith tradition is certainly Christian, perhaps we do well to note that there are many branches within the people who describe themselves as such. Never more has it been essential that the Church of England is aware and in dialogue with as many faith communities as possible. Genuine engagement with one another is a delight and privilege and the seeking for common ground is worth striving for, with an honest acknowledgement of where differences also may be found.
The word for religion comes from the Latin ‘religio' which means a duty. Many belief structures expect their believers to behave according to a set of rules or guidelines. In some languages, for example the Indian languages, there was no such word as religion for a long time. Religion was so much part of everyday life that a special word was not needed for it. Today it is hard to explain the word religion in a way which everyone finds acceptable. I hope that this will not be a barrier for people with open minds and hearts to try and travel alongside each other.
There has been much work already happening in Cornwall, especially the excellent platform which is the Cornwall Faith Forum and the initiative Dor Kemmyn (Common Ground - For One and All) whose aim is to see a Faith Centre for Cornwall built and used to the benefit of our community.
Some may feel that religion might be perceived as having lost its way within society, yet the spiritual side of everyone's life is still an important factor when conversations are exchanged. Cornwall is a place where communities are cherished and the wealth of understanding that is represented by every one of any faith - or none - is a resource we should hold in common and use for the good of all.
Please contact me to discuss any issue relating to life in Cornwall from the perspective of Faith and our relationships with one another.
Diocesan Inter Faith Advisor -
The Revd Jem Thorold, Chaplain to the Bishop of Truro.
Lis Escop, Feock, Truro. TR3 6QQ
01872 862657.
Click here to send an email.
Some useful leaflets
Cornwall Faith Forum Leaflet (PDF 208.42kb)
Cornwall Faith Forum - Common Ground (PDF 1,781.49kb)