Bridgemakers: So far
The idea originated while I was a Headteacher in Bradford, experiencing the simple hospitality of Asian families but also the increasing segregation in our society. In January 2005, I was inspired to set up my Oxford Steering Group to establish the principles, aims, objectives and to prioritise tasks.
We set up our first round with Muslims to meet Jews, Seventh Day Adventists meeting Church of England and Quakers meeting Bahai. The second round was Church of England to meet Muslims, Bahai with Seventh day Adventists and Quakers meeting Jews. The third round will soon be underway.
In December 2006 there was a Bring & Share lunch at the Friends Meeting House — the afternoon was a great success, a diverse group of people enjoying each other’s company, a heartening picture of the real world.
The future
Other groups: In 2007, I hope to establish
groups in Reading and Swindon. Friends in Skopje,
Macedonia, are keen to set up a group there.
Online: Once this website is developed
with a Content Management System and an e-learning package,
and is networked through Interfaith Groups and national
Faith Communities, the project will spread throughout the
world!
Format: It may well be that we could extend beyond faith groups. One town might choose Nationality Groups, the Chinese community with the Polish Community, the Expat Australians with Scots etc. A village might choose interest Groups, e.g. Multiple Sclerosis sufferers with Friends of the Earth, Ex-Prisoners with members of a Yoga teachers association.
