Cornwall Faith Forum sends greetings of peace to all people of goodwill

At a very dark time of year several religious faiths celebrate special festivals of light and peace.

The Hindu festival of Diwali spiritually signifies the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, knowledge over ignorance, and hope over despair.

Jews celebrate Hanukkah and light the menorah candelabrum as the rededication of the Holy Temple is remembered. Freedom from oppression and establishing peace are characteristic of this festival of lights.

For Pagans Yule is the time of the winter solstice, when the sun child is reborn. It is an image of the return of all new life.

Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus at Bethlehem as the light of the world, a light that darkness cannot overcome and through whom all are called to hope and peace.

Other faiths too hold celebrations around this time and share the common ground of seeking good for all and peace on earth, together with people of goodwill from many beliefs and none.

Cornwall Faith Forum welcomes people of peace from all faiths, beliefs and cultures. Peace and mercy are central to people of faith and embedded in our sacred texts and practice. In these dark and often challenging times we can hope together, building, learning and sharing while we grow in our own spiritual identity and explore each other’s beliefs without fear. When there is conflict and violence this work is even more needed and the light shines even more brightly.

The Cornwall Faith Forum wishes you joy and peace in this season and every blessing for 2020.