Followers of all faiths including Muslims, Christians, Jews and Hindus would normally come together to celebrate the annual Festival of Light in Oldham, but due to Covid-19 restrictions this year’s event was cancelled.

The night of festivities did not take place and a video was produced from previous events and was shared online instead. It is a celebration of Diwali, Hanukkah, Christmas and the Muslim festival of Eid. It is organised by the Oldham Interfaith Forum.

Father Phil Sumner, trustee of the Forum said: “Since 2003 in the first week of December we have held a multi-faith celebration with contributions from all religions, including brass bands playing Christmas carols, nasheed artists and Indian drumming and dancing. Prior to lockdown we hosted between 400-500 guests annually.”

In his capacity as a Roman Catholic priest Father Phil has been working for community cohesion in Oldham since the riots of 2001. He previously worked in Moss Side, Manchester for 25 years.

According to their website, the mission of Oldham Interfaith Forum is to, “promote harmony, understanding and co-operation between all members of the Oldham community, especially with regard to issues that relate to faith & belief.”

They visit schools and colleges and deliver a positive message of unity and emphasise the similarities between religions as opposed to differences.

Jit Kara who has been with the Interfaith Forum for more than ten years said: “Hindus are a very small minority in Oldham but being a part of the Forum allows us to have dialogue with other faiths and find common grounds. The festival is an event where the different religions can tell their stories.”

Mufti Helal Mahmood MBE who is the development officer at the Oldham Mosques Council stated: “The Festival of Light marks the aspect of light and hope for each faith, for the Muslim community we introduce the light of Prophet Muhammad (s) in our lives. We share his mercy with all communities in Oldham.”

Fazal Rahim is the coordinator of Oldham Interfaith Forum who has been working since 2003 to bring Oldham’s diverse faith communities together. He explained how since its inception the Forum has carried out innovative work in the borough some of which have been recognised nationally and internationally.

Fazal said: “Oldham Interfaith Forum has been in existence since 2001 and started off by organising visits to Churches, Mosques, and Hindu temples in Oldham for primary school children.

“The Forum also organises and delivers ‘Any Questions on Faith’ events in Oldham’s two colleges and numerous secondary schools.

“Churches from different denominations and the Oldham Mosques Council and two Hindu temples work closely together. We invite Jewish speakers from Manchester.

“The Forum works with the Members of Parliament Debbie Abrahams and Jim McMahon. We also work with the Oldham Council.”

With the rise of Islamophobia in the media and popular culture it is more important than ever for different faiths to come together and spread the true message of good will and brotherhood found in all religions.