RIG NEWs
Police scotland hate crime campaign 2019
From the 18th February for three weeks, Police Scotland is running its Hate Crime Campaign. Its key messages are:
• Regardless of your occupation, no matter the circumstances, where or when, hate crime is never acceptable and should be reported.
• If you are reporting hate crime, you will be taken very seriously, it will be fully investigated and you will be treated with respect.
• If you have been targeted because of your disability, race, religion, sexual orientation or transgender identity, or you are aware of someone else being targeted, we want you to report it.
• There are lots of ways you can report hate crime:
o By telephone on 999 (emergency) or 101 (non-emergency)
o In person at a police station
o Online via our hate crime reporting form:
https://www.scotland.police.uk/secureforms/hate-crime/
o Via ‘Contact Scotland BSL’, Scotland’s British Sign
Language interpreting video Relay Service
o If you don’t feel comfortable contacting the police directly, you can report hate crime at a third party reporting centre (TPR). Find your nearest TPR centre at:
https://www.scotland.police.uk/…/third-party-reporting-cent…
#DontTolerateHate
• Regardless of your occupation, no matter the circumstances, where or when, hate crime is never acceptable and should be reported.
• If you are reporting hate crime, you will be taken very seriously, it will be fully investigated and you will be treated with respect.
• If you have been targeted because of your disability, race, religion, sexual orientation or transgender identity, or you are aware of someone else being targeted, we want you to report it.
• There are lots of ways you can report hate crime:
o By telephone on 999 (emergency) or 101 (non-emergency)
o In person at a police station
o Online via our hate crime reporting form:
https://www.scotland.police.uk/secureforms/hate-crime/
o Via ‘Contact Scotland BSL’, Scotland’s British Sign
Language interpreting video Relay Service
o If you don’t feel comfortable contacting the police directly, you can report hate crime at a third party reporting centre (TPR). Find your nearest TPR centre at:
https://www.scotland.police.uk/…/third-party-reporting-cent…
#DontTolerateHate
First Sharing Meeting of 2019
We hope you will be able to join us on Thursday 28th February for our first Sharing Meeting of the year.
We will meet at Bianco Nero, 27 Gauze Street, Paisley, at 6 p.m. for friendship, reflection, planning the year ahead and, hopefully, to hear from a speaker.
We will meet at Bianco Nero, 27 Gauze Street, Paisley, at 6 p.m. for friendship, reflection, planning the year ahead and, hopefully, to hear from a speaker.
Peace event 2018: A great success!
On Sunday 11th November, Renfrewshire Interfaith Group, supported by East Renfrewshire Faith Forum and Friends of Barshaw Park, held our second annual Peace Event at the beautiful walled peace garden, Barshaw Park, Paisley.
On a day of rain, we feared that bad weather would affect attendance but we still had 45 people attend. We met in the car park beside the Rowantree Café and set off together to walk the 400 yards to the peace garden, singing and carrying lights along the way. Upon reaching the garden we surrounded the fire pit and with a backdrop of twinkling lights strung along the greenery of the wall, we began with the traditional silent prayer.
Our group’s current Chair, Douglas Yates, then welcomed everyone and introduced those faith representatives who would speak briefly to us about what peace means to their faith tradition. The weather stayed dry throughout and it was nice to hear words of wisdom spoken by all our faith representatives present. Meanwhile the fire flickered and burned steadily throughout in the midst of the company which created a lovely atmosphere. Interspersed with the short remarks were a couple of poetry readings and we had a song to close the event in the garden.
Afterwards, all participants were invited to withdraw to the Rowantree Café for hot soup, bread, other light refreshments, and another enjoyable 45 minutes of fellowship and singing.
It was a wonderful event and everyone said how much they had enjoyed it.
Speakers included representatives from Scottish Pagan Federation (and Druids), Sikh, Christian, Buddhist, Baha'i, Quaker, Muslim as well as someone from the Peace Federation. We also had members of the CND, Friends of Barshaw Park, the Green Party, plus two Renfrewshire Councillors (one SNP and the other Independent). There was good representation from both Renfrewshire Interfaith Group and East Renfrewshire Faith Forum and also The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Renfrewshire Interfaith Group express our deep gratitude to all who attended and to everyone who contributed (either financially or with their time) on their day. Many thanks too to Duncan Macintosh for these accompanying photographs.
On a day of rain, we feared that bad weather would affect attendance but we still had 45 people attend. We met in the car park beside the Rowantree Café and set off together to walk the 400 yards to the peace garden, singing and carrying lights along the way. Upon reaching the garden we surrounded the fire pit and with a backdrop of twinkling lights strung along the greenery of the wall, we began with the traditional silent prayer.
Our group’s current Chair, Douglas Yates, then welcomed everyone and introduced those faith representatives who would speak briefly to us about what peace means to their faith tradition. The weather stayed dry throughout and it was nice to hear words of wisdom spoken by all our faith representatives present. Meanwhile the fire flickered and burned steadily throughout in the midst of the company which created a lovely atmosphere. Interspersed with the short remarks were a couple of poetry readings and we had a song to close the event in the garden.
Afterwards, all participants were invited to withdraw to the Rowantree Café for hot soup, bread, other light refreshments, and another enjoyable 45 minutes of fellowship and singing.
It was a wonderful event and everyone said how much they had enjoyed it.
Speakers included representatives from Scottish Pagan Federation (and Druids), Sikh, Christian, Buddhist, Baha'i, Quaker, Muslim as well as someone from the Peace Federation. We also had members of the CND, Friends of Barshaw Park, the Green Party, plus two Renfrewshire Councillors (one SNP and the other Independent). There was good representation from both Renfrewshire Interfaith Group and East Renfrewshire Faith Forum and also The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Renfrewshire Interfaith Group express our deep gratitude to all who attended and to everyone who contributed (either financially or with their time) on their day. Many thanks too to Duncan Macintosh for these accompanying photographs.
Dates for diaries!
Full details of the following events can be found below in this section, or on our Diary page.
rIG'S ANNUAL pEACE eVENT, BARSHAW PARK, 11TH NOVEMBER 2018
Renfrewshire Interfaith Group’s popular annual Peace Event will take place on Sunday, 11th November. We invite everyone to gather with us at the Rowantree Café, Barshaw Park, from approx. 2.45 p.m. in order to process to the Peace Garden at 3 p.m.
The event in the garden should last about 45 minutes and will again include short talks from representatives of our local faith traditions as well as music and song.
Refreshments and a chance to socialise will be available in the café afterwards.
The event in the garden should last about 45 minutes and will again include short talks from representatives of our local faith traditions as well as music and song.
Refreshments and a chance to socialise will be available in the café afterwards.
As part of Scottish Interfaith Week 2018, our friends at Ayrshire Interfaith Group will be holding an event on Friday 16th November, from 7 - 9 p.m., in Grassyards Road, Kilmarnock. KA3 7SL. Various faith groups will get involved in tracing their family tree on one of the group's research stalls, manned by experts. There will also be stories told about what it was like to grow up in previous generations with visual prompts, with people of the 40’s, 60’s and 70’s represented. Various faith groups will perform and connect through dance, song poetry to represent their faith group. This event is free and open to all. For more information, please call 07875 857 593, or visit:
http://scottishinterfaithweek.org/locations/ayrshire-arran
http://scottishinterfaithweek.org/locations/ayrshire-arran
East Renfrewshire schoolchildren to ask: "Is war necessary?"
Our friends at East Renfrewshire Faith Forum, in conjunction with East Renfrewshire Education Department, are to hold an inter-schools debate on the subject, “Is War Necessary?”
Two teams will battle it out, with East Renfrewhire Provost, Jim Fletcher, and two other local dignitaries to judge the winner.
The event takes place on Wednesday 14th November, from 6.30 p.m., at Barrhead High School Aurs Rd, Barrhead, Glasgow G78 2SJ
For more information, please contact Farkhandra Chaudhry via email:
[email protected] for more information
Two teams will battle it out, with East Renfrewhire Provost, Jim Fletcher, and two other local dignitaries to judge the winner.
The event takes place on Wednesday 14th November, from 6.30 p.m., at Barrhead High School Aurs Rd, Barrhead, Glasgow G78 2SJ
For more information, please contact Farkhandra Chaudhry via email:
[email protected] for more information
Wallneuk North Interfaith Service 2018
Wallneuk North Church will be holding its annual Interfaith Service on Sunday 18th November, coinciding with the conclusion of Scottish Interfaith Week. The church service will take place from 11 a.m. to 12 noon, and will include contributions from representatives from Renfrewshire’s faith traditions.
From 12 until 1 p.m., refreshments will be available. Ann Breslin of the Universal Peace Federation will also be offering family blessings to those interested.
Following this, from 1-2 p.m., lunch will be shared by those who have booked a place at the nearby La Rambla restaurant, Renfrew Road, Paisley.
Back at the Wallneuk North Church, from 2-4 p.m., a band, The Kams, will provide Bollywood-style music and dancing followed by singing and poetry.
These events are open to all. Anyone wishing to attend lunch at La Rambla should contact the Reverend Peter Gill at Wallneuk North Church:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 07951764262
Wallneuk North Church, Abercorn St, Paisley PA3 4AB
From 12 until 1 p.m., refreshments will be available. Ann Breslin of the Universal Peace Federation will also be offering family blessings to those interested.
Following this, from 1-2 p.m., lunch will be shared by those who have booked a place at the nearby La Rambla restaurant, Renfrew Road, Paisley.
Back at the Wallneuk North Church, from 2-4 p.m., a band, The Kams, will provide Bollywood-style music and dancing followed by singing and poetry.
These events are open to all. Anyone wishing to attend lunch at La Rambla should contact the Reverend Peter Gill at Wallneuk North Church:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 07951764262
Wallneuk North Church, Abercorn St, Paisley PA3 4AB
Details of our next sharing Meeting: "Violence Against Women"
GurdwarA Singh Sabha visit, august 2018
Our group’s most recent event was a fabulously interesting trip to Glasgow's Central Gurdwara, where we were grateful to learn more about the faith of our Sikh members. Many thanks to RIG’s Ravinder Singh for organising and conducting the tour, and to all at the Gurdwara for their hospitality.
East Renfrewshire festival of colour!
The coming Saturday, 28th July, East Renfrewshire's annual free Festival of Colour takes place at Rouken Glen Park, from 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. and promises to be as brilliant an event as ever.
Bringing together people of all class, status, faith or colour, this celebration includes the throwing of colourful powder to celebrate diversity. (Old clothes are advised!)
A piper and a dholl drum player will open the colour throwing at 2.15 p.m., walking from the children's play area to the events area.
Other fun events will include: a Nepalese dancer, henna hand painting, a bouncy castle, and sponge throwing as well as a stall with water, juice and small snacks.
The festival is organised by a consortium, including East Renfrewshire Faith Forum, East Renfrewshire Hindu Association, Diversity ER and the Council.
Please just turn up for this vibrant and colourful event!
Bringing together people of all class, status, faith or colour, this celebration includes the throwing of colourful powder to celebrate diversity. (Old clothes are advised!)
A piper and a dholl drum player will open the colour throwing at 2.15 p.m., walking from the children's play area to the events area.
Other fun events will include: a Nepalese dancer, henna hand painting, a bouncy castle, and sponge throwing as well as a stall with water, juice and small snacks.
The festival is organised by a consortium, including East Renfrewshire Faith Forum, East Renfrewshire Hindu Association, Diversity ER and the Council.
Please just turn up for this vibrant and colourful event!
Forthcoming events
Following a recent trip to Glasgow Cathedral, Castle Street, RIG are in the process of finalising details for forthcoming group events - please keep an eye out for further details of these and also East Renfrewshire's Festival of Colours event, Saturday 28th July.
Two other local events at which members will be present are as follows - all welcome! :)
Sma' Shot Day Parade - Saturday 7th July 2018: assemble at 11:30am in Brodie Park at Braids Road to set off at noon to Abbey Close. Please come and walk behind the Renfrewshire CND banner and give out leaflets for the Faslane rally on 22nd September. If you are coming, please let [email protected] know.
Hiroshima Day - Monday 6th August: Gather at Barshaw Park car park to walk together to the Peace Garden at 5:00pm. Speaker to be announced.
Two other local events at which members will be present are as follows - all welcome! :)
Sma' Shot Day Parade - Saturday 7th July 2018: assemble at 11:30am in Brodie Park at Braids Road to set off at noon to Abbey Close. Please come and walk behind the Renfrewshire CND banner and give out leaflets for the Faslane rally on 22nd September. If you are coming, please let [email protected] know.
Hiroshima Day - Monday 6th August: Gather at Barshaw Park car park to walk together to the Peace Garden at 5:00pm. Speaker to be announced.
Spring Arrives at last!
This last Saturday, 5th May 2018, members of RIG, along with members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and other volunteers, spent a lovely morning helping Friends of Barshaw Park to tidy the beautiful Peace Garden ahead of the Scotland’s Gardens event on Saturday May 19th 2-4 p.m.
Three announcements!
1. Our latest Sharing Meeting takes place this coming Thursday, 5th April, from 7 p.m., at the Blend Café, 25B Causeyside St, Paisley PA1 1UL. (Please see attached map.) Do come along for a relaxed social evening, meeting and sharing aspects of faith with members of the group.
2. Our Annual General Meeting takes place this coming Saturday, 7th April, from 12 noon, at Methodist Central Hall, 2 Gauze St, Paisley PA1 1EP. (Please note that we are advised to use the Smithhills Road entrance to Methodist Central Hall on Saturday - there is a door bell there - see attached map.) The AGM will follow the agenda, and office-bearers will be elected/re-elected. The AGM will be followed by a committee meeting. All are welcome.
3. Annual membership fees will be due as of Saturday, 7th April. The fees remain: £5 for individuals and £20 for organisations.
We hope to see you soon!
2. Our Annual General Meeting takes place this coming Saturday, 7th April, from 12 noon, at Methodist Central Hall, 2 Gauze St, Paisley PA1 1EP. (Please note that we are advised to use the Smithhills Road entrance to Methodist Central Hall on Saturday - there is a door bell there - see attached map.) The AGM will follow the agenda, and office-bearers will be elected/re-elected. The AGM will be followed by a committee meeting. All are welcome.
3. Annual membership fees will be due as of Saturday, 7th April. The fees remain: £5 for individuals and £20 for organisations.
We hope to see you soon!
Congratulations to Rig's stephen haggerty!
Renfrewshire Interfaith Group extends very warm congratulations to member Stephen Haggerty, who, following the Scottish Pagan Federation's Annual General Meeting and leadership elections, has been elected as the organisation’s new National Interfaith Officer.
Stephen, Vice-Chair (and former Chair of RIG) replaces John MacIntyre, who had served well over two decades in the role.
Furthermore, Stephen will also serve as one of the new District Managers for the Scottish Pagan Federation, which, he promises, has “many exciting plans in place for the future of the organisation going forward.”
We wish Stephen much success in his new positions, and look forward to his continuing contribution to our own group.
Stephen, Vice-Chair (and former Chair of RIG) replaces John MacIntyre, who had served well over two decades in the role.
Furthermore, Stephen will also serve as one of the new District Managers for the Scottish Pagan Federation, which, he promises, has “many exciting plans in place for the future of the organisation going forward.”
We wish Stephen much success in his new positions, and look forward to his continuing contribution to our own group.
Wallneuk North Interfaith Service a great success!
On Sunday 19th November, Wallneuk North Church held an interfaith service to conclude Scottish Interfaith Week 2017. Minister, the Rev. Peter Gill, who also founded RIG, presided over a truly lovely and inclusive service that saw the members of several faith traditions within our community give short reflections on the nature of interfaith.
Mark Jones, currently Chair of RIG, was honoured to speak briefly to the congregation about the work of the group, and fellow members Shelagh McKay Jones and Rae Brady contributed to the music and prayers of the service.
The service was also covered by the 92 News TV channel.
Afterwards, refreshments were provided in the church hall, before some attendees moved to the nearby La Rambla restaurant for a further celebration of interfaith relations, with poetry and reflection, and at which the Rev. Peter officially appointed new interfaith co-ordinators to help the interfaith outreach work being done by Wallneuk North Church.
Photos shown here are courtesy, with our thanks, of Wallneuk North Church. To see more, please view the church's interfaith page on their website which can be found by clicking this link.
Mark Jones, currently Chair of RIG, was honoured to speak briefly to the congregation about the work of the group, and fellow members Shelagh McKay Jones and Rae Brady contributed to the music and prayers of the service.
The service was also covered by the 92 News TV channel.
Afterwards, refreshments were provided in the church hall, before some attendees moved to the nearby La Rambla restaurant for a further celebration of interfaith relations, with poetry and reflection, and at which the Rev. Peter officially appointed new interfaith co-ordinators to help the interfaith outreach work being done by Wallneuk North Church.
Photos shown here are courtesy, with our thanks, of Wallneuk North Church. To see more, please view the church's interfaith page on their website which can be found by clicking this link.
interfaith in the community awards 2017
On the Thursday evening of Scottish Interfaith Week, Mark Jones and Shelagh McKay Jones of RIG were delighted and honoured to attend the Scottish Parliament for a celebration and awards ceremony to honour the service and dedication of Dr Maureen Sier and Trishna Singh OBE for Interfaith in the Community.
The event, hosted by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and sponsored by SNP MSP John Mason, comprised of a number of short and very inspiring speeches, as well as beautiful musical interludes performed by two young missionaries of the Church.
The Interfaith in the Community and Family Values Awards of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints recognise civic, faith and other community leaders who have made outstanding contributions to the family and interfaith relations.
Trishna Singh OBE (pictured below left) founded Sikh Sanjog in 1989 – an organisation that aims to break down barriers to learning, reducing the obstacles that get in the way of people receiving a service, and improving communication between professions about the needs of the Sikh and other BME women. Unable to attend, Trishna’s award was accepted on her behalf by her daughter and daughter-in-law.
Dr Maureen Sier (pictured below right) is director of Interfaith Scotland and, coming from the Bahá'í faith tradition, has spent many years promoting interfaith relations, not only within Scotland but across the world.
The event concluded with refreshments and a chance to socialise. Some attendees also took advantage of John Mason MSP’s very kind offer to give us a guided tour of the Parliament building.
The event, hosted by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and sponsored by SNP MSP John Mason, comprised of a number of short and very inspiring speeches, as well as beautiful musical interludes performed by two young missionaries of the Church.
The Interfaith in the Community and Family Values Awards of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints recognise civic, faith and other community leaders who have made outstanding contributions to the family and interfaith relations.
Trishna Singh OBE (pictured below left) founded Sikh Sanjog in 1989 – an organisation that aims to break down barriers to learning, reducing the obstacles that get in the way of people receiving a service, and improving communication between professions about the needs of the Sikh and other BME women. Unable to attend, Trishna’s award was accepted on her behalf by her daughter and daughter-in-law.
Dr Maureen Sier (pictured below right) is director of Interfaith Scotland and, coming from the Bahá'í faith tradition, has spent many years promoting interfaith relations, not only within Scotland but across the world.
The event concluded with refreshments and a chance to socialise. Some attendees also took advantage of John Mason MSP’s very kind offer to give us a guided tour of the Parliament building.
Young People Unite Against Hate Crime!
Renfrewshire Interfaith Group's main Scottish Interfaith Week sponsored event 'Young People Unite Against Hate Crime', created in conjunction with the wonderful PACE Theatre company and writer Angela Orr, was a massive success!
Taking place on Monday 13th November, the production, which provided a challenging and thought-provoking exploration of some of the issues experienced by young people within our community concerning race, culture, religion, and hate crime, was incredibly well received, with calls to take the production into schools.
The members of PACE Youth Theatre gave an exhilarating performance that combined song, dance and drama to portray both the negative impact of hate crime and the positive ways it can be countered.
After the performance, the group led the audience through a workshop consisting of improvised routines that portrayed some of the issues faced by young people, such as bullying. The audience were shown scenarios depicting different interactions between young people, and were then asked to suggest changes that could encourage better behaviour and better attitudes.
Finally, refreshments were served and participants and audience members were able to chat and socialise.
The whole team from PACE did enormously well, and the evening was a resounding success. RIG thank PACE Youth Theatre, Angela Orr, and all who contributed to this outstanding event.
More photos can be found on our Facebook page.
Taking place on Monday 13th November, the production, which provided a challenging and thought-provoking exploration of some of the issues experienced by young people within our community concerning race, culture, religion, and hate crime, was incredibly well received, with calls to take the production into schools.
The members of PACE Youth Theatre gave an exhilarating performance that combined song, dance and drama to portray both the negative impact of hate crime and the positive ways it can be countered.
After the performance, the group led the audience through a workshop consisting of improvised routines that portrayed some of the issues faced by young people, such as bullying. The audience were shown scenarios depicting different interactions between young people, and were then asked to suggest changes that could encourage better behaviour and better attitudes.
Finally, refreshments were served and participants and audience members were able to chat and socialise.
The whole team from PACE did enormously well, and the evening was a resounding success. RIG thank PACE Youth Theatre, Angela Orr, and all who contributed to this outstanding event.
More photos can be found on our Facebook page.
Interfaith Peace Gathering: A Resounding success!
Yesterday, Sunday 12th November 2017, we were delighted to be joined by a large crowd for our first ever Interfaith Peace Gathering.
In conjunction with East Renfrewshire Faith Forum and Friends of Barshaw Park, we processed to the Peace Garden by candle and lantern-light, where we heard memorable and thought-provoking reflections on the subject of peace, given by representatives from several of the faith traditions within our community.
Speakers came from the Bahá'í, Catholic, Hindu, Islamic, Quaker and Pagan traditions.
Douglas Yates of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints compered and recited several relevant and moving poems, while Shelagh McKay Jones led the participants in singing.
Afterwards, we repaired to the Rowantree Cafe, for soup and socialising.
A very good time was had by all, and the members of RIG extend our thanks to all who helped enable the event to happen.
More photos from this event can be found on our Facebook page.
In conjunction with East Renfrewshire Faith Forum and Friends of Barshaw Park, we processed to the Peace Garden by candle and lantern-light, where we heard memorable and thought-provoking reflections on the subject of peace, given by representatives from several of the faith traditions within our community.
Speakers came from the Bahá'í, Catholic, Hindu, Islamic, Quaker and Pagan traditions.
Douglas Yates of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints compered and recited several relevant and moving poems, while Shelagh McKay Jones led the participants in singing.
Afterwards, we repaired to the Rowantree Cafe, for soup and socialising.
A very good time was had by all, and the members of RIG extend our thanks to all who helped enable the event to happen.
More photos from this event can be found on our Facebook page.
Multi-Cultural entertainment evening: cancellation advice
Regrettably, we have had to cancel the multi-cultural entertainment evening that was to take place this Thursday, 16th November, in St. Mirin's Cathedral Halls, Paisley. We apologise for any inconvenience, and we hope to reschedule this event for another date in the new year.
PLEASE BE AWARE that our "Young People Unite Against Hate Crime" performance with PACE Youth Theatre is still to go ahead tonight, between 7-9 p.m. at St Mirin's Cathedral Halls. We hope to see you there!
PLEASE BE AWARE that our "Young People Unite Against Hate Crime" performance with PACE Youth Theatre is still to go ahead tonight, between 7-9 p.m. at St Mirin's Cathedral Halls. We hope to see you there!
Interfaith Service & Gathering At wallneuk North Church
The Rev. Peter Gill of Renfrewshire Interfaith Forum warmly invites people of all faiths or none to attend an Interfaith Service held by the Wallneuk North Church on Sunday 19th of November. Following the service there will be free refreshments in the church hall and halal lunch at the La Rambla Restaurant behind the church.
There will be opportunities to recite poetry, express your feelings in simple words or by singing a sweet song after the lunch.
For the lunch at La Rambla, please book your table for £8 and confirm your attendance in advance for catering purposes.
Locations: Wallneuk North Church, Abercorn St, Paisley, PA3 4AB, and La Rambla restaurant, 9-11 Renfrew Rd, Paisley PA3 4AF
There will be opportunities to recite poetry, express your feelings in simple words or by singing a sweet song after the lunch.
For the lunch at La Rambla, please book your table for £8 and confirm your attendance in advance for catering purposes.
Locations: Wallneuk North Church, Abercorn St, Paisley, PA3 4AB, and La Rambla restaurant, 9-11 Renfrew Rd, Paisley PA3 4AF
Scottish Interfaith Week 2017: 12-19 nOVEMBER
rENFREWSHIRE EVENTS aNNOUNCED!
Our group is delighted to announce the dates, venues and descriptions of two of the events in which we are involved during this year's Scottish Interfaith Week:
1) Interfaith Peace Gathering in the Peace Garden
Date: Sunday 12th November 2017, 4.30 p.m.
Location: Rowantree Café, Barshaw Park, 165 Glasgow Road, Paisley, PA1 3LF and the Walled Peace Garden, Barshaw Park, 176A Glasgow Rd, Paisley. PA1 3LT
Description: Lasting approximately an hour, our procession will begin at the Rowantree Café, Barshaw Park, before moving on by candlelight to the beautiful Walled Peace Garden. The event will involve representatives from the various faith traditions within our community, with short reflections given on the theme of “peace”. There will be music and song, and a chance afterwards to socialise with refreshments back at the Rowantree. All are most welcome to attend this free event.
2) Young People Unite Against Hate Crime:
Renfrewshire Interfaith Group in collaboration with PACE Theatre Company and Angela Orr
Date: Monday 13th November, 7.00 – 9 p.m.
Location: St Mirin’s Cathedral Hall, Cathedral Precincts, Incle Street, Paisley, PA1 1HR
Description: Developed with writer Angela Orr and members of our local PACE Youth Theatre, this free event will provide a challenging and thought-provoking exploration of some of the issues experienced by young people within our community concerning race, culture, religion, and hate crime. The performance will last approximately 15 minutes and will be followed by an interactive session between the participants and audience. Refreshments will be provided.
Please do keep an eye on our Facebook,Twitter and Instagram pages for further announcements and links to other events taking place during the week.
1) Interfaith Peace Gathering in the Peace Garden
Date: Sunday 12th November 2017, 4.30 p.m.
Location: Rowantree Café, Barshaw Park, 165 Glasgow Road, Paisley, PA1 3LF and the Walled Peace Garden, Barshaw Park, 176A Glasgow Rd, Paisley. PA1 3LT
Description: Lasting approximately an hour, our procession will begin at the Rowantree Café, Barshaw Park, before moving on by candlelight to the beautiful Walled Peace Garden. The event will involve representatives from the various faith traditions within our community, with short reflections given on the theme of “peace”. There will be music and song, and a chance afterwards to socialise with refreshments back at the Rowantree. All are most welcome to attend this free event.
2) Young People Unite Against Hate Crime:
Renfrewshire Interfaith Group in collaboration with PACE Theatre Company and Angela Orr
Date: Monday 13th November, 7.00 – 9 p.m.
Location: St Mirin’s Cathedral Hall, Cathedral Precincts, Incle Street, Paisley, PA1 1HR
Description: Developed with writer Angela Orr and members of our local PACE Youth Theatre, this free event will provide a challenging and thought-provoking exploration of some of the issues experienced by young people within our community concerning race, culture, religion, and hate crime. The performance will last approximately 15 minutes and will be followed by an interactive session between the participants and audience. Refreshments will be provided.
Please do keep an eye on our Facebook,Twitter and Instagram pages for further announcements and links to other events taking place during the week.
Peace in the garden...
On Saturday 17th June, members of Renfrewshire Interfaith Group participated in a Helping Hands activity at the Peace Garden in Barshaw Park, Paisley. Included in the photo above are: Karen Sutherland from Friends of Barshaw Park; Ritchie Adam, a member of the East Renfrewshire U3A gardening group; Douglas Yates and Stephen Haggerty of RIG, Margaret Bryce of East Renfrewshire Faith Forum, and several members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Paisley.
In all, around twenty-five people attended the event and a good and productive time was had by all.
For more information on future events at the Peace Garden, please go to:
http://www.friendsofbarshawpark.org.uk/walled-garden-tidy-dates-2017/
In all, around twenty-five people attended the event and a good and productive time was had by all.
For more information on future events at the Peace Garden, please go to:
http://www.friendsofbarshawpark.org.uk/walled-garden-tidy-dates-2017/
FAITH AND THE MEDIA DIALOGUE EVENT
On Tuesday, 6th June 2017, our friends at East Renfrewshire Faith Forum hosted a dialogue event titled "Faith and the Media" in the United Reformed Church Hall, Barrhead.
Media reporting can have a powerful effect on people of different faiths – both positive and negative. This event provided an opportunity to explore the complex relationship with the media and challenge some of the negative reporting and stereotypes about people of different faiths.
The event opened with a very powerful drama presented by Jean Urquhart from Renfrewshire Interfaith Group. This demonstrated how invisible and vulnerable minority faith groups feel when they are portrayed negatively in media reporting.
Peter Kearney, Director of the Scottish Catholic Media Office in Glasgow was a guest speaker. His presentation incorporated the lack of press and television coverage of faith. Reasons for this include the growth of secularism in Scotland with the consequence that relatively small numbers of people now practise their faith.
Representatives of the Christian, Hindu, Jain, Baha’i and Muslim faiths contributed to the dialogue, along with guests such as Jashwanti Mehta and former Councillor Tommy Reilly.
Feedback suggests that the event was much enjoyed by those attending, and it was agreed that the event had helped to educate and strengthen relationships between faith traditions.
Chair of ER Faith Forum, Douglas Yates, who introduced the event and summed up at the end, said "This is one of a number of events the Faith Forum has organised to bring people from different faith traditions together to discuss what problems are being encountered by people of faith in their communities. Our common aim is to promote peace and harmony and community cohesiveness."
The photo below shows just some of those who participated.
Media reporting can have a powerful effect on people of different faiths – both positive and negative. This event provided an opportunity to explore the complex relationship with the media and challenge some of the negative reporting and stereotypes about people of different faiths.
The event opened with a very powerful drama presented by Jean Urquhart from Renfrewshire Interfaith Group. This demonstrated how invisible and vulnerable minority faith groups feel when they are portrayed negatively in media reporting.
Peter Kearney, Director of the Scottish Catholic Media Office in Glasgow was a guest speaker. His presentation incorporated the lack of press and television coverage of faith. Reasons for this include the growth of secularism in Scotland with the consequence that relatively small numbers of people now practise their faith.
Representatives of the Christian, Hindu, Jain, Baha’i and Muslim faiths contributed to the dialogue, along with guests such as Jashwanti Mehta and former Councillor Tommy Reilly.
Feedback suggests that the event was much enjoyed by those attending, and it was agreed that the event had helped to educate and strengthen relationships between faith traditions.
Chair of ER Faith Forum, Douglas Yates, who introduced the event and summed up at the end, said "This is one of a number of events the Faith Forum has organised to bring people from different faith traditions together to discuss what problems are being encountered by people of faith in their communities. Our common aim is to promote peace and harmony and community cohesiveness."
The photo below shows just some of those who participated.
Interfaith Ceilidh!
A fantastic evening was had by all at our recent ceilidh, held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Paisley as a part of #SIFW2016. Following a chance for participants to say a prayer in the faith tradition of their choice, a band played and a great time was had in dancing, sharing and learning from one another. Photos below!
Events for scottish interfaith week 2016!
We are delighted to announce the following events. For more information, please see the poster below and check our Facebook page for regular updates: https://www.facebook.com/Renfrewshire.Interfaith.Group/
Sunday 13th: 2.15pm: Scottish Interfaith Week 2016 Launch.
Paisley Town Hall, Abbey Close, Paisley PA1 1JF
This event is free of charge, but subject to booking.For more information, please visit:
http://www.interfaithscotland.org/scottish-interfaith-week/
or email [email protected]
Tuesday 15th: 7.30-9.30pm: "Faith and the Media": Dialogue event followed by a presentation of the Paisley 2021 bid for city of culture by Alan McNiven of Engage Renfrewshire organisation. Free of charge
Scottish Episcopal Church, Paisley
Concluded with light refreshments.
More information at: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/faith-and-the-media-dialogue-evening-with-a-presentation-on-paisleys-bid-for-uk-city-of-culture-2021-tickets-29274497811
and:
https://www.facebook.com/events/699009633586800/
Thursday 17th: 7.30pm: Interfaith Ceilidh with finger buffet. Free of charge
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Glenburn Road, Paisley
Saturday 19th: 11am: A guided tour of Paisley Abbey. Free of charge (those who wish may also attend a musical recital afterwards in the Abbey, starting 12.30pm and costing £5)
Sunday 13th: 2.15pm: Scottish Interfaith Week 2016 Launch.
Paisley Town Hall, Abbey Close, Paisley PA1 1JF
This event is free of charge, but subject to booking.For more information, please visit:
http://www.interfaithscotland.org/scottish-interfaith-week/
or email [email protected]
Tuesday 15th: 7.30-9.30pm: "Faith and the Media": Dialogue event followed by a presentation of the Paisley 2021 bid for city of culture by Alan McNiven of Engage Renfrewshire organisation. Free of charge
Scottish Episcopal Church, Paisley
Concluded with light refreshments.
More information at: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/faith-and-the-media-dialogue-evening-with-a-presentation-on-paisleys-bid-for-uk-city-of-culture-2021-tickets-29274497811
and:
https://www.facebook.com/events/699009633586800/
Thursday 17th: 7.30pm: Interfaith Ceilidh with finger buffet. Free of charge
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Glenburn Road, Paisley
Saturday 19th: 11am: A guided tour of Paisley Abbey. Free of charge (those who wish may also attend a musical recital afterwards in the Abbey, starting 12.30pm and costing £5)
Families Have a lot of fun in the forest!
On Saturday 13th August 2016, Renfrewshire Interfaith Group, in conjunction with the Forestry Commission Scotland, held our second Family Fun in the Forest event. Well done to all those who took a chance with the weather and arrived at Boden Boo woodland, Erskine, for a wonderful day of fun activities.
The weather was kind except for a little shower of rain in the middle of the afternoon. But it didn't dampen spirits as families attending flocked to get little faces painted, hands and arms henna painted, took part in the tree-sure trail, created some lovely leaf painting, built some fabulous dens, and listened to some spell-binding stories as well as taking part in tug-o'-war and other competitions. Hot drinks and goodies were provided to keep tummies from grumbling. Following the event, Paisley Daily Express kindly gave us a centre pages two-page spread. |
Happy Eid to all muslim friends!
To mark the end of Ramadan, Renfrewshire Interfaith Group’s Rev Peter Gill was delighted to celebrate with Muslim friends at an interfaith Eid party held this week at the Nurture Educational and Cultural Society, Glasgow. Rev Peter said that the event was great fun and wished a happy Eid to all Muslim friends around the world.
Family fun in the forest - new date announced!
We are delighted to announce a new date of Saturday 13th August for our FREE Family Fun in the Forest event at Forestry Commission Scotland woodland at Boden Boo, Ferry Road, Erskine, PA8 6AX (near old Erskine Ferry).
From 12 noon until 4 pm, there will be lots of fun activities including den building, campfire, storytelling, face-painting, arts and crafts, bushcraft and a treasure hunt - great fun activities for the children, all in wonderful natural surroundings!
No charge for participation, so please put the date into your diary and come along on the day.
Boden Boo is near the southern end of the Erskine Bridge over the River Clyde, west of Glasgow. The car park (grid reference NS 462 721) is off the A726 between the M898 / A898 and the Barrholm Roundabout just north of Erskine. Look for a turning onto a small road signposted ‘Crisis Counselling Centre’ and follow this for 600 yards (600 metres) to reach the car park.
There are regular buses between Glasgow and Erskine. Find details at Traveline Scotland.
This event is organised by Renfrewshire Interfaith Group in association with Forestry Commission Scotland.
From 12 noon until 4 pm, there will be lots of fun activities including den building, campfire, storytelling, face-painting, arts and crafts, bushcraft and a treasure hunt - great fun activities for the children, all in wonderful natural surroundings!
No charge for participation, so please put the date into your diary and come along on the day.
Boden Boo is near the southern end of the Erskine Bridge over the River Clyde, west of Glasgow. The car park (grid reference NS 462 721) is off the A726 between the M898 / A898 and the Barrholm Roundabout just north of Erskine. Look for a turning onto a small road signposted ‘Crisis Counselling Centre’ and follow this for 600 yards (600 metres) to reach the car park.
There are regular buses between Glasgow and Erskine. Find details at Traveline Scotland.
This event is organised by Renfrewshire Interfaith Group in association with Forestry Commission Scotland.
Family fun in the forest postponed due to bad weather
It is with regret that, due to bad weather, we have to postpone the Family Fun in the Forest event at Boden Boo, Erskine, that was to have taken place tomorrow, Saturday 2nd June.
After careful consideration, Forestry Commission Scotland's Outreacher Ranger Craig Thomson has concluded that the forecast for high winds (not to mention heavy rain) makes it too risky for the event to go ahead.
We will co-operate with Craig with a view to arranging a new date for the event and will keep everyone informed as and when we have more information.
Many apologies for any inconvenience.
After careful consideration, Forestry Commission Scotland's Outreacher Ranger Craig Thomson has concluded that the forecast for high winds (not to mention heavy rain) makes it too risky for the event to go ahead.
We will co-operate with Craig with a view to arranging a new date for the event and will keep everyone informed as and when we have more information.
Many apologies for any inconvenience.
FAMILY FUN IN THE FOREST 2016 TO TAKE PLACE ON SATURDAY 2ND JULY
Renfrewshire Interfaith Group invite all Rernfrewshire Families to join them for "Family Fun in the Forest" in Forestry Commission Scotland woodland at Boden Boo, Ferry Road, Erskine (near old Erskine Ferry) on Saturday 2nd July between 12 noon and 4 p.m.
There will be lots of fun activities including den building, campfire, storytelling, face-painting, arts and crafts, bushcraft and a treasure hunt - all in beautiful, natural surroundings in the fresh air. No charge for participation. Simply put the date into your diary and come along on the day.
Boden Boo is near the southern end of the Erskine Bridge over the River Clyde, west of Glasgow. The car park (grid reference NS 462 721) is off the A726 between the M898 / A898 and the Barrholm Roundabout just north of Erskine. Look for a turning onto a small road signposted ‘Crisis Counselling Centre’ and follow this for 600 yards (600 metres) to reach the car park. There are also regular buses between Glasgow and Erskine. Find details at Traveline Scotland.
This event is organised by Renfrewshire Interfaith Group in association with Forestry Commission Scotland.
There will be lots of fun activities including den building, campfire, storytelling, face-painting, arts and crafts, bushcraft and a treasure hunt - all in beautiful, natural surroundings in the fresh air. No charge for participation. Simply put the date into your diary and come along on the day.
Boden Boo is near the southern end of the Erskine Bridge over the River Clyde, west of Glasgow. The car park (grid reference NS 462 721) is off the A726 between the M898 / A898 and the Barrholm Roundabout just north of Erskine. Look for a turning onto a small road signposted ‘Crisis Counselling Centre’ and follow this for 600 yards (600 metres) to reach the car park. There are also regular buses between Glasgow and Erskine. Find details at Traveline Scotland.
This event is organised by Renfrewshire Interfaith Group in association with Forestry Commission Scotland.
Unity, harmony & peace
On Sunday 29th May, Renfrewshire Interfaith Group's Reverend Peter Gill was invited to participate in an event at Glasgow Central Mosque. The event, which aimed to promote unity, harmony and peace in a 21st century context, was also attended by Muslim leaders and representatives of other faiths. Reverend Peter gave a sermon on the subject of peace. Dinner was served after the event
rig announce Hate Crime Seminar for april...
As part of our exciting and informative series of events for this year, Renfrewshire Interfaith Group will be hosting a seminar dealing with the issue of hate crime. The event takes place on Sunday 17th April at St Mirin Hall, Cathedral Precinct, Incle Street, Paisley, and will run between 4pm-6pm. The Police Area Commander will be a keynote speaker at the event, and further speakers and the full programme will be confirmed nearer the time. This event has been funded by Paisley North Local Area Committee via Renfrewshire Council, to whom we are grateful. For more information, keep an eye on our website and Facebook page, or feel free to contact/message us!
Fun, folk, and faith:
a round-up of events from interfaith week 2015
Fun in the Forest
Following several days of incessant rain earlier in the week, Saturday 21st November proved to be a gloriously dry, mild and pleasant day - ideal for some Fun in the Forest. And so it was that members of Renfrewshire Interfaith Group, in association with our Forestry Commission sponsor, prepared a site within the woodland at Boden Boo, Erskine, for a family fun experience in furtherance of Interfaith Scotland's theme for Scottish Interfaith Week, "Care for the Environment". Project workers were brought in to teach about outdoor cooking and building fires, creative arts and crafts using materials found in the forest, how to build an effective 'den' or shelter, and other fun activities.
As can be seen in the photos below, some of the children attending tried their hand at making chapatis. Not only did they have to knead and roll out the dough, they also put their 'chapati' into the hot frying pan to cook it - and the results were amazing and tasty. The Deputy Provost of Renfrewshire Council, Cllr. John Caldwell, entered into the spirit of the Fun in the Forest event and spent the whole afternoon at the camp with families attending, even indulging in a spot of 'den building' - which was duly tested with water to determine its worthiness as a shelter from the elements - and tasting chapatis with vegetable stew. Because of the shorter days of winter, the event started at noon and concluded at 3pm. Such enjoyment was had by all attending that Renfrewshire Interfaith Group determined to work with the Forestry Commission towards hosting a similar event this June. Verdict? Good event, well organised in beautiful surroundings, and the weather was great!
Multi-Cultural Concert
A multi-cultural concert was held on the evening of Thursday 26th November as part of Scottish Interfaith Week. This event was a joint venture between Renfrewshire Interfaith Group and East Renfrewshire Faith Forum and was part sponsored by Interfaith Scotland and Paisley Rotary. The event was held in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Glenburn Road, Paisley who have facilities ideal for such an event. The concert was attended by about 50 people of several faith traditions and they showed great appreciation to all the acts who entertained them. Variety was the order of the day which saw an Irish dancing group, folk singer, Scottish dancing group, a unique collaboration between a rising star in the folk scene and an Indian singer, and concluded with an excellent singer/songwriter. The artistes were from various faith traditions too, and the evening was concluded with a mixed pakora/samosa/bhaji buffet and soft drinks which encouraged those attending to network. Many of those attending wished to show their appreciation by making a retiring donation and these donations were gifted to Erskine Hospital.
Interfaith Service
Renfrewshire Interfaith Group held its annual interfaith service on Sunday 22nd November in Wallneuk North Church, Paisley, where one of our members, Rev. Peter Gill is minister. Although Peter put together the service, he involved other faiths in the service and encouraged people of all faiths to attend. This was done through sending information to many places of worship within Renfrewshire and Barrhead and newspaper articles in the church news sections of local newspapers as well as various church bulletins. Consequently, there was a good attendance with many faiths represented. After the service, a buffet was available to assist with networking and fellowship.
Interfaith service 2014
Representatives from various faith traditions in Renfrewshire attended the annual Renfrewshire Interfaith Group interfaith service held last Sunday in Wallneuk North Church in Abercorn Street. The theme of the service, which opens Scottish Interfaith Week, was "Journeys of Faith" and emphasised the importance of people working together in communities to achieve good outcomes. The service was led by chair of Renfrewshire Interfaith Group, Rev. Peter Gill, with readings and prayers delivered by representatives from the Catholic, Sikh and Mormon traditions. Cllr. John Caldwell, Deputy Provost, also attended in his capacity as a local councillor.Afterwards, those attending met in the church hall for refreshments and lunch provided by the Sikh representatives and this gave the opportunity to express the journey of faith which individuals had undertaken. The attached photo shows representatives of some of the faith traditions who attended and who comprise Renfrewshire Interfaith Group.