A representative from West Oxfordshire local government recently attended services at Witney Mosque to highlight the value of collaborative engagement between different religious groups.
Andrew Coles participated in Jummah prayers alongside worshippers at the Elsharkawy Islamic Culture Centre on Friday, October 2.
The councillor was subsequently asked to address those gathered, discussing the significance of religious groups cooperating to serve their shared neighbourhood.
The engagement was facilitated by Abdul Mubin acting on behalf of the area’s Muslim population.
Councillor Coles holds positions on both West Oxfordshire District Council and Oxfordshire County Council.
Abdul Mubin commented that the community had been pleased to welcome Andrew Coles to the workshop and to introduce him to numerous residents.
Councillor Coles expressed his appreciation for what he had gained from the experience and thanked attendees for their warm reception.
He noted that engagement between faiths holds considerable importance, contributes to establishing confidence, challenges preconceptions and brings local residents together.
Following the religious service, Councillor Coles engaged in conversation with congregation members and community leaders.
The Elsharkawy Islamic Culture Centre commenced operations in 2019 and functions both as a mosque and as a venue for community activities, providing facilities for Friday worship.
This engagement came after another senior councillor, Rachel Crouch, visited the mosque during the previous month.