Reflection on the Scottish Interfaith Week 2025 Gathering
Date Published
The Inverclyde Interfaith Gathering held on 29 October 2025 at the Inverclyde Muslim Centre was a remarkable celebration of unity and diversity. Over 50 participants from across the community came together for an evening that embodied the Scottish Interfaith Week theme of "Our Future".
Imam Muhammad Bilal opened with a reflection on the importance of dialogue between faiths, reminding us that "diversity is not for division — it is for understanding and peace." Frances Hume, Senior Development Officer at Interfaith Scotland, spoke about the journey from the first gathering at St Mary's Catholic Church in November 2024 to this vibrant community event.
Provost Drew McKenzie attended as Chief Guest, praising the commitment to unity and cooperation across Inverclyde. Chairman Mohammed Akhter closed the evening by thanking all attendees for "supporting interfaith friendship and goodwill."
The gathering featured shared food from different traditions, conversation café discussions, and an atmosphere of genuine warmth and curiosity. The Inverclyde Muslim Centre proved to be a wonderful venue, continuing the tradition of rotating between different faith community spaces — from the Catholic church, to the civic Town Hall, to the Muslim Centre.