Families enjoyed an inspiring and well-attended Open Day hosted by Southport Islamic Society Mosque on Sunday.
Faith leaders from Muslim, Jewish and Christian places of worship came together to share a message of community, friendship and togetherness.
They were warmly welcomed by Imam Ibrahim Hussein at an event organised by the Light Foundation.
The theme of the occasion was ‘Celebrating One Community’.
Among others giving speeches were Lord Lieutenant of Merseyside Mark Blundell, Southport MP Patrick Hurley, Sefton Council Leader Cllr Marion Atkinson, Merseyside Police and Crime Commissioner Emily Spurrell, Southport and District Reform Synagogue Chair Dr Selwyn Goldthorpe, Merseyside Police Head of Local Policing Natalie Perischine, Southport Hospital Chaplain Jan Fraser, and Holy Family Church Parish Priest Father Kevin McLoughlin.
They spoke in front of Light Foundation banners which declared ‘Facilitating Cohesive Communities’.
The Mosque was packed with local families who enjoyed a look around the facility, chatting with people there and enjoying some delicious food.
A Light Foundation spokesperson said: “We were delighted to welcome people to come and join us for a special ‘thank you’ Open Day to show appreciation for your support during a challenging year for our communities.
“It was an afternoon of friendship, good conversations, and gratitude, whilst celebrating the strength of being ‘one community’, as we continue to collectively work towards building a kind and united society.”
Southport MP Patrick Hurley said: “It was a pleasure and a privilege to speak at Southport Mosque’s Open Day today to promote good community and neighbourhood relations.
“Too often, we see division where there should be unity and conflict where there should be co-operation.
“Whether it’s marches or protests or visible expressions of our identity, we all need to be mindful of those who disagree with us or who feel intimidated by our actions.
“In the interests of being good neighbours, let’s rise above the divisions that politics can feed, and recognise that some things are more important.”
Sefton Council Leader Cllr Marion Atkinson said: “It is a true privilege to be at this Mosque for a true celebration not only of faith, but of friendship, understanding, and a shared purpose.
“Today we gather to learn not just about the rich traditions and values of Islam,. But to re-affirm something even deeper – our commitment to building a society where every person feels seen, respected, and valued.
“A society where diversity is not just tolerated, but embraced as a source of strength.
“In our borough we are proud of the diverse tapestry of cultures, languages and beliefs that make up our community.
“But cohesion does not happen by accident. It is built day by day, conversation by conversation, handshake by handshake.
“It is built when we open our doors as you have done today and invite others in with warmth and generosity.”
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