Tag: Interfaith Scotland

Interfaith Scotland is to receive £145,000 to help support their work with different faith groups and interfaith organisations.

Making the announcement while meeting with representatives from different faith groups and interfaith organisations across Scotland, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: “In the past year we have witnessed faith groups working together with one voice to show their support during humanitarian crises across the world.

“The vital work of Interfaith Scotland in raising awareness of the importance of interfaith dialogue and increasing our understanding of different traditions and practices enriches our communities.

“By working together with Interfaith Scotland and all communities I hope to see a safer, stronger and more inclusive society which we are all able to fully contribute to and benefit from.”

Growing interfaith expertise since the 1970s, Interfaith Scotland is highly regarded in the international interfaith community as being a leader. Interfaith organisations promote mutual understanding of the teachings, traditions and practices of different faith communities.

Director of Interfaith Scotland Dr Maureen Sier said: “Interfaith Scotland is delighted to receive this funding from the Scottish Government. It allows us to continue the important interfaith engagement work that takes place across Scotland.  Challenging religious prejudice, stereotyping and misunderstanding is at the heart of what we do and ensures that everyone, whatever their religion or belief, has an opportunity to play an active role in promoting a just and inclusive Scotland.”

Social Justice Secretary to meet with faith groups

New Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice Alex Neil will meet today with the Board of Interfaith Scotland for the first time since his appointment to discuss interfaith work and how to continue building closer relationships between all faiths.

Speaking ahead of the meeting, Mr Neil said: “The Scottish Government values all of Scotland’s diverse faith and belief communities and the vital role they play in supporting and developing cohesion among and between communities.

“These groups are essential in transforming lives, promoting social justice and supporting some of the poorest and most vulnerable people in our society.

“Like the rest of the world, I have watched with horror the events in Europe and I am clear that there is no place in Scotland for any form of anti-Semitism or religious hatred. We will not tolerate any threat to any of our citizens going about their daily lives and are committed to tackling all incidents of hate crime to ensure the safety of all our communities.

“Scotland’s diversity is a strength and we have always been highly regarded in the international interfaith community. It is my sincere hope that all communities in Scotland will continue to be part of our work to ensure a future built on mutual trust, respect and understanding.”

Interfaith Scotland provides a forum for people from different religions and beliefs to meet and discuss matters of religious, national and civic importance. The organisation runs ‘dialogue events’ for young people, women, faith communities, religious leaders, members of Interfaith Scotland and local interfaith groups as well as running interfaith workshops in schools and producing interfaith publications and resources.

Interfaith Scotland also provides ongoing support to local interfaith groups and give public presentations, seminars and training on interfaith and faith awareness.

Interfaith Scotland will be holding the National Scottish Holocaust Memorial Day event on Tuesday 27th January at Ayr Town Hall with special guest speakers Ela Weisberger and Hasan Hasanovich. 2015 marks 70 years since the liberation of the death camps and 20 years since the Srebrenica massacre. During their eight day visit to Scotland, Ela and Hasan will also speak at schools in Glasgow, Ayr and Edinburgh, Glasgow City Chambers and the Scottish Parliament.