RELIGIOUS leaders, civic representatives, and community members from Coventry came together to offer a message of unity and hope in the face of rising social tensions and community fragmentation.
The event at Coombe Abbey Hotel was organised by the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church (SMCC) to mark the inauguration of its Apostolic Visitator’s Mission in the UK.
It centred on an inter-faith dialogue examining the role of faith organisations in the UK, chaired by Dr Anuj Mathew.
Panel speakers included Coventry Muslim Forum Chairman Dr Abdullah Shehu MBE, Most Rev. Dr. Thomas Mar Eusobios of SMCC (Bishop of Parasala, India), and Shri Hariprasad, the President of ISKCON Coventry.
The panellists called for regular inter-faith engagement, stronger support for vulnerable and marginalised sections of the society, clearer guidance and engagement with young people, and closer cooperation between spiritual and political leaders.
Discussions highlighted the need for faith communities to act as ambassadors of peace, champion their traditions with humility and embrace diversity as an outlook rather than a sociological factor.
Attendees also emphasised the vital role of faith-based values in shaping society, education, and supporting policy choices.
In his inaugural address, His Beatitude Eminence Cardinal Baselios Cleemis, Head of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, underscored the importance of dialogue in opening doors to build bridges and strengthening understanding across communities. He called for renewed spirituality as a means of deepening appreciation of different faith traditions and their values.
Civic leaders, including Coventry Deputy Lord Mayor Roger Bailey and Ashford MP Sojan Joseph, praised the initiative and affirmed the contribution of faith organisations to UK society. They welcomed the Church’s decision to anchor its inauguration in inter-faith dialogue.
The event drew leaders from a broad spectrum of religious communities from Coventry, including the Jewish Reform Movement and the Salvation Army Church.
Alex Panteli, from the Greek Orthodox Church UK, said: “The event highlighted how diverse faith groups work together with compassion while preserving their unique beliefs and heritage.”
Attendees also praised table discussions which fostered meaningful connections and mutual understanding.
The evening concluded with a shared commitment to ongoing dialogue and cooperation to support the UK community.
