People of different faiths in Bradford have been neighbours, colleagues and friends over many decades now. There are wonderful stories from the 1960s about hospitality shared between long-time residents and newly-arrived migrants; Christians offering practical help with completing forms, for example, or Muslims bringing special food to Christian neighbours at Eid.

At the same early stage, some people were developing a conscious interest in the faith and belief of others, and Concord Inter Faith Society was established so people can talk about their faiths and learn from each other.

Since this time, there has been a growth in collaboration among the faithful of different religions and today. For example, Bradford Trident Faiths Forum takes initiatives for the environment and community in BD5.

All this is great, but many regarded ‘inter-faith relations’ as a minority interest for those who chose to get involved. The impact of the destruction of the Twin Towers in 2001 and the bombs on public transport in London in 2006 highlighted the imperative for peace between faiths, world views and communities.

Many faith leaders, communities and individuals spoke clearly for the importance of redoubling our efforts to live well together – peace is not a minority interest.

‘Between naivety and hostility’ is a phrase coined by Christian leaders to express the importance for us all of taking the right approach. We must not be naive about extremism, racism and prejudice in all its forms, and we must tackle these problems together. We must not be hostile to others when a minority take violent action or extreme attitudes, but always seek to build peace. ‘Between naivety and hostility’ is a creative space where all people of goodwill build peace in difficult times.

In Bradford, there are lots of exciting initiatives between faiths. As the recession continues to throw us challenges here in Bradford, we need more people than ever to actively choose this approach.

DIARY DATES

* Today: Touchstone Hooray Day! at the former McRory’s Bar, 4 Easby Road, Bradford, 2pm to 6pm – fun and games for all, with workshops, craft, cake and other stalls and refreshments. Free admission, but donations towards refurbishing our new premises welcome.

8 Until 3 May, Poverty Over, a sculpture and photographic exhibition highlighting Christian Aid’s work, is visiting Bradford Cathedral. Viewing Monday to Saturday, 9am to 4.30pm.