The new communities of Coventry welcome the Archbishop

In his introduction in the programme guide, Bhopinder Basi  (Chief Executive of The Coventry Refugee and Migrant Centre) wrote that, “The many faith and community organisations serving the refugee and migrant communities of Coventry proclaim our legacy of peace and reconciliation as Coventrians.  Community groups from many countries of origin, and faith organisations from different traditions, share with each other this opportunity to celebrate our friendship.”

There were nearly 500 people in the audience at the Welcome Centre in Coventry enjoying the celebration of the city’s diversity and traditions.  The performers included members of the Ramgharia Sikh Temple, Sree Dharahalya Dance Academy, Hina Dancers Children’s Bhangra Group, a song from the Afghan Supplementary School, dance from the Tamil Welfare Association and drumming from the CMRC Men’s Group Drumming.

Sabir Zazai presented a message from the new communities, saying that “this was a very important event for the city of peace and reconciliation”.  He shared his experience of arriving in Coventry as an asylum seeker, and said that he would never have dreamed of hosting an evening like this.  “When I arrived in Coventry my only experience of bishops was on a chess board!”

Sabir continued, “Coventry is a welcoming place.  It does not take too long for one to become part of the community, and this gives people hope.”  He pointed out that the early 60s not only celebrated the building of a new Cathedral, but it also saw the first places of worship in Coventry for the other faith communities.  “We celebrate that Coventry is a place that provides a sanctuary and hope for those fleeing persecution.  Our faiths tell us to love one another, to care for one another and to live within our means.  Tonight’s event is just one example of how migrant communities have worked together.”

Archbishop Rowan responded by telling the story of the Old Testament prophet Elijah who asked a famine-struck widow for some bread.  The widow discovered that by sharing all that she had, she miraculously had enough food every day.  Archbishop Rowan said that during the present financial difficulties, people feel that they can’t afford to be generous.  However, he believes that at times like this we need to open the doors of generosity even wider.

Each of the new communities provided
 displays and stalls that demonstrated
 their wide cultural diversity.  There was also
 a colourful array of delicious food.