All faiths show their humanity

All faiths united for a vigil around the Innocent Victims Memorial at Westminster Abbey, London, to show solidarity with the people of Iraq, affirming the message #WeAreAllHuman.

The event, organised by Christian Aid, Islamic Relief and World Jewish Relief, was attended by senior religious leaders, including representatives from The Salvation Army.

The Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Rev Justin Welby, stressed: ‘It is vital that we are here today, people of many different religions. It speaks to the horror of what is happening.’ Ibrahim Mogra (Assistant Secretary General of the Muslim Council of Britain) underlined that the event announced interfaith collaboration is about social action. He stated that the Koran celebrates that a diverse humanity was part of God’s design. ‘He meant for us to be different… our common humanity unites us,’ he said.

Rabbi Laura Janner-Klausner (Senior Rabbi to the Movement for Reform Judaism) commented: ‘The peaceful way of life that is Islam has been distorted.’ As she gestured towards the memorial, she reflected: ‘It is precisely the cry of innocent victims that echoes in our hearts today.’

While attention focused on Iraq, those gathered were also called to think about communities in Britain and were reminded to be careful not to discriminate.

After speeches from faith leaders, Christians, Jews, Muslims, Hindus and Sikhs alike observed a minute’s silence to meditate and pray together for Iraq.