Group places seasonal greetings in press

3:05pm Tuesday 18th December 2007

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A group has placed a special multi-faith "season's greetings" advertisement in the national press as part of a campaign to promote peaceful Islam, it has been announced.

Children from Christian, Jewish and Muslim backgrounds will be pictured opening presents in the advertisement designed to coincide with Christmas, the Jewish festival Hanukkah and Eid-ul-Adha, marking the end of the Hajj, or the annual pilgrimage to Mecca.

"On the occasion of the completion of the Hajj, Muslims across Britain would like to wish everyone a Happy Eid," the advertisement says.

"During this time of peaceful festivities and goodwill, with Christmas, Hanukkah and Eid celebrations all in the same month, this is a time to reflect on all of our shared values."

The advertisement has been placed by the Islam is Peace movement, aimed at highlighting the positive contribution of Muslims to Britain and has the backing of Muslim community organisations across Britain.

Islam is Peace project co-ordinator Ifhat Shaheen Smith said: "This is an opportunity that could not be missed.

"It isn't often that the festivals of the three Abrahamic faiths coincide so closely to each other and British Muslims across the country felt that we should celebrate and share that goodwill with people of all faiths and no faith."

The advertisements will be placed in the national press tomorrow.