Earlier this summer, faith and community leaders gathered at Willow Grange for a Christian-Muslim forum under the theme "Better Together – Strengths, Challenges, and Local Cooperation." Organised by Surrey Minority Ethnic Forum (SMEF) Faith Links Project with the Diocese of Guildford, the event fostered open dialogue, focusing on youth engagement and interfaith cooperation.
Bishop Andrew Watson opened with a reflection on Psalm 23, sharing a personal story about abseiling from Guildford Cathedral as a metaphor for trust and faith.
Participants also shared inspiring local stories, including joint food distribution during COVID-19 by Woking churches and the Shah Jahan Mosque, and strong ties between clergy in diverse churches in Aldershot and Woking. Ideas for twinning churches and mosques to deepen community bonds were also explored.
(Photo credit- Surrey Minority Ethnic Forum)
A longstanding friendship between Rev Nick Hutchinson (previous vicar at St Paul’s Church, Woking) and Imam Hashmi was highlighted as a testament to the enduring power of dialogue and relationship-building.
Elsewhere, Revd Alwyn Pereira, St Michael’s Church, Aldershot, spoke about the close cooperation between the church and mosque in Aldershot, particularly in supporting refugees. Ideas for twinning churches and mosques were also shared, with the aim of encouraging deeper relationships through shared projects and hospitality.
Among other topics, the forum agreed to work together on joint action on poverty and inclusion and linked youth projects between churches and mosques.
A follow-up forum is planned for July 2026 to assess progress and celebrate shared achievements.