This year’s Annual Muslim Christian Gathering marked the 28th gathering of the Portsmouth Cathedral and Wessex Jamaat communities. It was wonderful to see people coming together in the spirit of faith shared values, some for the first time at this gathering, and others who have been attending since the inaugural event in 1995. It was truly a blessing to meet in person once again, having had the event online for the last two years.
The theme for this year’s event was ‘Vocation in everyday life’. As such, after beautiful recitations from the Quran (recited by Fazle Abbas Nanji and translation by Ali Husayn Nurmohamed) and from the Bible and a piece from the cathedral’s choir, we heard some words of advice from both Sheikh Fazle Abbas Datoo and the Dean of Portsmouth, Revd. Dr Anthony Cane. This was followed by some insightful reflections, from both communities, including a reflection by Maya Fatemah Patel, about the how we can seek to fulfil God’s purpose for us in our day to day lives and through all of our actions, with such actions being underpinned by our faith in God.
The event also provided an opportunity for round-table discussions with a delicious assortment of vegetarian dishes and snacks. This time yielded some fascinating discussions, about faith, the challenges we face and just catching up on the events that have happened since we last met in person 3 years ago before the pandemic. We pray for the success of both communities and that we can continue this wonderful tradition for many years to come.
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