Manchester/Lahore link produces Urdu translation of interfaith document

The Bishop of Bolton, Bishop of Lahore and Lord Ahmed at the launch


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Published: 20 October 2011

An Urdu version of the interfaith theology document, Generous Love, has been launched at the House of Lords. The document, which aims to encourage community cohesion, is the result of collaboration by the Diocese of Manchester and the Diocese of Lahore in Pakistan. Working together on the translation was a good opportunity to strengthen diocesan links and interfaith dialogue.

Lord Nazir Ahmed of Rotherham and Revd Rana Youab Khan, The Archbishop of Canterbury’s International Inter Faith Dialogues Assistant, hosted the launch. They were joined by the Rt Revd Dr Alexander John Malik, Bishop of Lahore, Dr Paul Bhatti, Advisor to the Prime Minister for National Harmony, Government of Pakistan and Bishop of Bolton, The Rt Revd Chris Edmondson.

Lord Ahmed said, "I am honoured to host this launch as a Muslim from Pakistani heritage, who is able to speak Urdu and understands the importance of Interfaith dialogue.  I believe that this book will help bring the communities together".

Although we will always have differences in our theological beliefs, he said, our values of caring, sharing and community cohesion are similar and therefore it’s important to build on our common beliefs rather than being divided on our differences.

The Bishop of Bolton spoke about the Manchester/Lahore Link: a potential support for interfaith dialogue in the UK and in Pakistan. He said, "The link between our two dioceses has a long history of friendship, but being partners in this joint venture gives further expression to our commitment to dialogue, especially in helping to equip our Urdu-speaking fellow Christians in their relations with those of Muslim faith".

Dr Paul Bhatti expressed the strong commitment of the government of Pakistan to ensure inter religious harmony. He also talked about the after-effects of Shabaz Bhatti’s assassination. He encouraged the churches and other religious communities in the UK to support the people of Pakistan in this difficult time.

The Bishop of Lahore said that despite the problems they face, Christians in Pakistan are committed to inter-religious harmony.

The event ended with a time of silence and prayers for peace and harmony in the world, lead by Bishop Chris Edmondson.


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