VIGIL FOR PEACE IN PORTSMOUTH’S ANGLICAN CATHEDRAL

Muslims, Jews, Christians, Sikhs, Hindus, Buddhists, agnostics and atheists were invited to show their commitment to peace and their solidarity with each other in the light of the conflict in the Lebanon and the alleged terrorist plan to bomb transatlantic flights. Community representatives from the City Council, Police, Education and Health Services were also invited.

The Vigil took place between 12 noon and 1 p.m. on August 30^th 1006 and arose out of discussions between the Cathedral Dean and representatives of the Muslim community.

The idea of the silent vigil was that people could pray or reflect in their different ways but side-by-side—standing together in mutual support and witness to unity because of the real tensions in the country and in our world.

After some introductory words from the Dean and the Coordinator of the Portsmouth Interfaith Forum, Taki Jaffer, the period of silent prayer was started with the lighting of a candle and concluded with the striking of a gong. The Vigil was very well attended and the sharing of the hour in silent prayer was a precious experience.

Perhaps we can all learn from this in our own different areas of the country!

article by Sr Rita Elizabeth, SSB