All in Good Faith

Author(s): Jean Potter, Marcus Braybrooke
Publisher: World Congress of Faiths

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All in Good Faith
kneel) made clear. Those preparing such an event should also ensure that those who are asked to participate know how long should be their contribution.
Language: As some of the readings, prayers or mantras which may be included in such a event are likely to be read or chanted in the language in which they were originally written, it is helpful for everyone to know their meaning in order to help them with their participation. Where possible, translations should be available.
Holy Writings : The treatment, handling and position of the sacred scriptures is an important part of worship within some faith communities, and care should be taken to see that they are duly reverenced and handled only by those authorised so to do.
Symbols and Rituals: Symbols on which people from different faiths can agree can be a helpful and uplifting part of shared worship. Ritual often expresses the beliefs of one particular faith which cannot, in sincerity, be shared by others, and therefore limits participation in them.
Music and Singing: Although an integral part of worship for many faith communities, many Muslims would not wish to sing during a service and some would be hesitant about the use of music. If they are a participating community, they should be consulted on the appropriateness of the arrangements in this respect.
Silence and Meditation: The use of silence and meditation will depend to a large extent on the size and inclinations of the participating group and on the occasion. Long periods of silence would probably be inappropriate during a Civic Service, whereas many inter-faith groups have developed the practice of having a period of silent prayer at the commencement of all their meetings. Those preparing a service should consider how much time should be allowed for silence and for meditation, guided or otherwise, and those leading it should be directed accordingly.
Food and Drink : For many the sharing of food and drink is a continuation of the fellowship engendered by prayer. However, those preparing such refreshment should ascertain that the dietary regulations of different faith communities are catered for, and, if necessary, the foods clearly labelled so that their contents are known. Similarly, bottled water or fruit juices should be provided for those who do not drink tea, coffee or alcoholic beverages.
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