Muslims Welcomed by Jews and Christians
15 March 2015
Muslims will take up full representation at the Wellington Council of Christians and Jews, which will re-launch as the Wellington Abrahamic Council on 14 April at an event at Parliament hosted by the Attorney General, Hon Chris Finlayson.
Jewish Co-chair Dave Moskovitz said that the Council had welcomed Muslims at all meetings since 2007, and it was now time to make the relationship more formal. “The three Abrahamic religions share a great deal of common history, theology, ethics, and practice. We have important and significant differences too. Making peace begins with each of us, and is our collective responsibility. It’s too important to leave to world leaders.”
The Council’s aim is to foster understanding, friendship and trust between the Abrahamic faiths of Judaism, Christianity and Islam. The name “Abrahamic” comes from our common prophet Abraham, who according to our traditions proclaimed monotheism some 3800 years ago.
Sultan Eusoff is the CEO of the Federation of Islamic Associations NZ and will become the Muslim Co-chair on 14 April. Eusoff said, “We are happy and excited to cement our already strong relationships with our Jewish and Christian brothers and sisters. We have learned a lot about each other, and there is plenty more to learn and share.”
Christian Co-chair Rev Jenny Chalmers added, “There has never been a more important time to join together. Islamophobia and antisemitism are on the rise, against a backdrop of global tensions that are attributed to religious differences. Mutual understanding is the key to effective communication and progress in our relationships. It’s not always easy, but we’re all committed to this sacred work.”
The Launch of the Wellington Abrahamic Council of Jews, Christians and Muslims will take place at Parliament House in Wellington at 5:30pm on Tuesday 14 April.