30 people came together last night from different communities across Bristol, to share a meal and to explore what the theme 'Love Thy Neighbour' means to them.
Afendi Restaurant on Cheltenham Rd put on a wonderful spread of Lebanese food, and in-between courses guest speakers from the Jewish, Christian and Muslim communities shared their thoughts on the evening's theme. Rabbi Monique Mayer from the Progressive Synagogue, Pastor Owen Lynch from Severn Vineyard Church and Rizwan Ahmed from Bristol Muslim Cultural Society all gave inspiring and thought-provoking talks which led to some excellent discussions around the tables.
Many of those who came were meeting for the first time, and while it was only a couple of hours spent together, our hope is that the friendships and the conversations started will continue and will contribute towards positive relations between the different communities in the city.
Here are a few comments left by those who attended, and a few more images from a wonderful night!
'So refreshing to meet strangers and talk about important matters... and also to have a laugh!'
'Powerful reminder that there is much shared ground between us.'
'Absolutely fantastic - warm, friendly and a real priviledge to meet people from other faiths.'
'It was particularly inspiring to learn that the Hebrew words 'Love thy neighbour' suggest that love is an action.'
'Really lovely to be able to ask questions without fear of offending anyone.'
'It has been wonderful meeting Jews and Muslims tonight and a great theme that helped emphasise our similarities and encouraged discussion.'
