FFWPU UK: Oliver Lane at Scottish Interfaith Retreat on Scottish island of Iona

Oliver Lane took part in a Scottish Interfaith Retreat on the Scottish island of Iona where he met representatives of various faiths, built new friendships and took part in interfaith worship.

I recently had a good experience on the island of Iona, which is off the west coast of Scotland.

Iona is famous as being the starting point of Scottish Christianity, initiated by St. Columba or Colmcille, in Ireland, during the sixth century.

The meeting was to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Scottish Religious Leaders annual Forum, first convened in 2002 as a result of 9/11, and of some of the hateful reactions towards religious communities that followed.

I made good friends with some of the attendees from different religions take joined the retreat.

Dr. Maureen Sier, Director of Interfaith Scotland suggested the official opening of the new Glasgow Peace Embassy during Scottish Interfaith week 13th - 20th November. She will be happy to participate in the opening as she is based in Glasgow.

I also met several young chaplains representing Hindu, Sikh, Jewish and Christian traditions at Scottish universities.

It was an uplifting experience as we took part in services and worshipped together. I was proud to be able to represent Heavenly Parent’s Holy Community in such an environment and realise that there are many people similar journeys to our own.

If we can make friendships and build understanding with one another, I am sure we can raise our profile in our wider communities. - Oliver Lane