Two people from the Common Ground network went to the recent InterFaith Consultation at Lampeter University, and our network was mentioned as the only one in southwest Wales, the nearest other being in Swansea. They were very interested in what we are trying to do her in North Pembs. Here is an overview of the day from the consultation organisers.
The event was hosted by the Department of Theology and Religious Studies, University of Wales Lampeter (TRS), and supported by the Common Ground network in North Pembrokeshire. Over 65 people from different faith communities and backgrounds were invited with 25 people attending.
People were warmly welcomed by Meri Huws, the Pro Vice-Chancellor of the University who said that the University management was very supportive of this interfaith initiative in West Wales and offered its commitment and resources. She also expressed her personal interest in this community building project in her role as Director of Innovation, Skills and Community.
The day continued with short introductions by Revd Alan Bayes, Chair of the Inter-faith Council for Wales and Liz Court, Head of Operations Wales for the Community Development Foundation. There was then a short presentation on the case for Interfaith work in Wales followed by a demonstration of the new online interfaith map by Nigel Anthony, Interfaith Development Worker.
After the break, everyone split into small groups for interactive discussion on what should be included in an Interfaith Code of Conduct and how this could help build good relations. Liz facilitated a feedback and questions session.
Networking took place over a relaxed lunch. In the afternoon session, the focus was very much on Lampeter and South West Wales, with Dr Bill Campbell setting the scene for spiritual life on Campus and Revd Don MacGregor talking about the Common Ground Initiative in North Pembrokeshire. Small groups then met to discuss the barriers and opportunities for interfaith work locally. A wide range of issues was raised and these have been written up elsewhere in the report together with other insights and discussion notes.
The main outcome of the day was the desire for the group to meet again to form a regional interfaith network for the West and South West Wales area.