Today, our school was visited by Shahbaz, a man from Redhill who worships and volunteers at the local mosque. As a Muslim, Shahbaz was able to speak to us authentically about how he celebrates his faith, including the many good works which he does in the local community. Part of these actions includes teaching children at the Mosque how to speak Arabic – some of whom were in our assembly! Shahbaz also spoke about how he tries to please God in all he does – and seeking forgiveness when he falls short of that. This really resonated with us. How mindful are we about our actions? Do we always try to live out the values that Jesus taught us to live by? Do we – at the heart of all we do – try and act with love of God and love of one another at the heart of all we do?

Through our encounter with Shahbaz, all of us have had the opportunity to reflect on ourselves and our own beliefs, but also that of our Muslim brothers and sisters at the school.

With God’s grace, may we all grow in faith – as children of God; as Pilgrims of Hope.