Rev Elaine Murray from Carrigaline Union of Parishes reports on an encouraging event in Cork:‘The Three Faiths Forum is an initiative that brings together representatives of the three Abrahamic faiths – Judaism, Christianity and Islam, seeking to create a space where people of faith can dialogue openly and respectfully, come to a better understanding of each other’s faith and work together to enhance tolerance, co-operation and friendship in our society. Cork, like all of Ireland, is increasingly a multicultural, multiracial and multireligious society. Our group is drawn from the Muslim, Jewish and Christian faith communities in Cork and have come together to explore how our various faith traditions can help foster a spirit of openness, dialogue, and inclusion within our society.
As part of our journey together on April 22nd we organised an Earth Day celebration in the centre of Cork, in Bishop Lucey Park which is adjacent to the main street Grand Parade. Each of the traditions read in turn from their own scriptures about the value of Earth; our home and God’s creation. The weather was good, music was played , much delicious food was eaten (thanks to the Real Olive Co. from across the road in the English Market) and everyone just enjoyed the chat and the fellowship. The Forum was delighted with how the inaugural Earth Day celebrations went and we hope to hold a similar event next year. We were particularly pleased with the number of people from many different faith traditions who just wandered over and joined in. It is in such small ways that divisions are broken down and what we have in common is celebrated.’
