In what may be a world first a religious group representing Christian and Jewish communities has expanded to include Muslims in an effort to foster friendship and dialogue between religions.
The group celebrated its relaunch as the Wellington Abrahamic Council of Jews, Christians and Muslims at Parliament on Tuesday night.
Council Christian co-chair Reverend Jenny Chalmers said the joining of the three religions in one group could be something of a world first.
“It’s been an extremely important step and it is one of the first in the world, although the International Council of Christians and Jews has had Muslims as part of their trialogue for some time, we are in fact one of the first to be constituted in this way,” she said.
Federation of Islamic Associations chief executive Sultan Eusoff, who is the council’s Muslim co-chair, said the Wellington Muslim community was delighted to be part of the council and he hoped the group would inspire dialogue and friendship.
“What we are trying to create here, it can be a catalyst for the rest of New Zealand and, indeed, for the rest of the world. We can be a beacon for peace, happiness and tranquility.”
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News category: New Zealand.