Walk of faith in Plaistow

People of different faiths came together to talk about what it means to be a good neighbour in Plaistow.

Over 70 residents joined the Faith and Neighbours Walk organised by E13 People United, part of the E13 Learning Community, which visited five places of worship during the community debate.

Bharat Dadlani, from the Vishwa Hindu Parishad Upton Centre, said: “People felt comfortable with asking their hosts questions and I am sure that any prejudices and misconceptions were cleared.

“A better understanding of faiths was achieved and I am sure it will result in better bonding amongst the neighbours taking part.”

Beginning at St Mary’s Church of England, the faith walk stopped off to visit the Soka Gakkai International Buddhist Group at the Harold Road Centre, the Upton Park Islamic Centre in Selwyn Road and the Vishwa Hindu Parishad, before finishing up at Ramgarhia Sikh Gurdawara in Neville Road.

The event was organised in response to parent and community requests for more opportunities to learn about the diverse cultures of Newham.

Sister Chris from St Mary’s said: “The highlight for me was just walking through Plaistow with people of other faiths having a conversation about our similarities.

“It felt like a beginning of understanding in my life.

“We were made welcome at each venue and our questions were answered.

“It was so entirely peaceful and good natured that the good neighbourliness was implicit.”