Luton’s long-standing commitment to interfaith friendship and cooperation was evident on Wednesday 24 June, as the Rt Revd Richard Atkinson, the Bishop of Bedford, visited a number of places of worship across the town.
A shared commitment to interfaith relationships
The visit was organised by Grassroots Luton in partnership with the Luton Council of Faiths and the Near Neighbours programme. It reflected a shared commitment to bringing people of different faiths and backgrounds together, building understanding, trust and resilience within the community.
Visiting places of worship across the town
The programme included visits to Luton Turkish Community Association and Mosque, Guru Nanak Gurdwara, Bury Park Jamia Mosque and Luton Central Mosque. At each stop, Bishop Richard and those accompanying him were warmly welcomed, with opportunities to listen, learn and share experiences of faith and community life.
The Revd Naomi Young-Rodas said:
In a wider context of increased social tension and concern about division, Bishop Richard’s presence and words of solidarity were particularly appreciated by Sikh and Muslim leaders across the town. He recognised the significant contribution these communities make to Luton’s life and wellbeing.
Bishop Richard reflected:
“It has been a privilege to spend time with Luton’s diverse faith communities, listening, learning and experiencing such generous hospitality. Encounters like these remind us that, while we come from different traditions, we share a deep commitment to the flourishing of our communities.”
Building trust and facing challenges
“Luton has a strong history of interfaith cooperation. This visit has reaffirmed our shared commitment to building trust, deepening understanding and working together for the good of all who live here.”
Conversations throughout the day reflected both encouragement and challenge. There was appreciation for the strong partnerships already in place, alongside a recognition of the need to continue addressing fear, misunderstanding and the impact of negative narratives. Particular concern was expressed for younger people and for women who may feel vulnerable in some contexts, highlighting the importance of ongoing work to build confidence and belonging.
Participants spoke about the importance of investing in young people, helping them to understand their identity and navigate issues such as discrimination and social pressure. There was also a shared desire to tell more positive stories of collaboration and community life, countering harmful stereotypes.
Fr Emmanuel Nazir SSC from the Church of the Holy Cross, said:
“At a time when many are experiencing economic pressure and growing polarisation, and scapegoating of immigrants and minoritised communities is becoming blatant, Luton continues to show that diversity can be a strength when grounded in trust, respect and shared purpose.”
Continuing the work together
Throughout the visit there was a strong sense of gratitude and a shared commitment to continue meeting, listening and working together. The day reinforced the importance of creating spaces where relationships can grow and where differences can be approached with openness and care.
The organisations have nurtured relationships over many years through dialogue and partnership. This visit builds on that foundation, showing how sustained connection can foster hope and strengthen community life.
Reflecting on the day, organisers Ryad Khodabocus and David Jonathan (Johnny) shared:
“We remain committed to creating spaces and opportunities for people to meet, understand one another, and work together for the common good. What stood out throughout the day was a simple truth: when people meet one another face-to-face, share stories, break bread together and listen with open hearts, barriers are replaced by understanding and strangers become neighbours.”
Date for your diaries
Monday 16 November 2026 – Interfaith event at St Albans Cathedral