As Interfaith Week is marked across the country, one local initiative in East Barnet is showing how practical cooperation can foster deeper understanding and unity between those of different faiths and backgrounds.
Joe, a member of the collective, told us:
“We started in 2020 in a disused office space, supporting a single individual with a weekly food delivery during one of the covid lockdowns. As the organisation developed, we were invited in 2023 to use the community halls at St Mary’s Church, East Barnet, for our food packing and distribution, since when we have not missed a single week of deliveries, rain or shine.”
What makes Barnet Collective distinctive is its ethos: there are no divisions between “volunteers” and “recipients.” Everyone is considered a member, contributing according to their capacity and sharing collectively in the benefits. Since 2020, the initiative has grown into a vibrant community pooling resources, collecting supplies, and redistributing them free of charge to households in need.
The group’s members reflect the breadth of Barnet’s community, including church members, Muslims, activists, and asylum seekers. This diversity has become a strength, breaking down barriers and nurturing mutual support across faiths and backgrounds.
In 2023, Barnet Collective was invited to use the community halls at St Mary’s Church, East Barnet, for food packing and distribution. Since then, the group has not missed a single week of deliveries—rain or shine. Over time, a partnership of shared values has developed between the Collective and the church congregation, enriching both communities.
Barnet Collective is a great example of how those from different faith groups and local residents can work side by side, highlighting the importance and benefits of dialogue and co-operation in communities.
Interfaith Week 2025
Our diocese is grateful for these relationships, particularly as we celebrate the annual Interfaith week. If you have a story of how you are working in an interfaith context in your setting, we would love to hear from you. Please do this via email.
Next Monday, 17 November, we have our Diocesan Interfaith Event at St Albans Cathedral, from 7pm.