Weaving Trust Across Difference: A look back at our Lent & Ramadan community listening event
A ‘Blue Moon’ Gathering | Weaving Trust Across Faiths
For the first time in some 33 years, the holy month of Ramadan and the season of Lent began on the same day. Seeing this rare overlap as an opportunity, St Frideswide’s, Water Eaton hosted a Weaving Trust gathering — bringing Christians and Muslims together for conversation, hospitality and shared reflection.
What do you get if you put a group of Christians and Muslims together in the same room?
In an increasingly atomised society, many of us gravitate towards those who share our beliefs and background. Opportunities to build genuine relationships across faith lines can feel rare — perhaps even like a ‘blue moon’.
Yet this year offered just such a moment. A ‘Weaving Trust’ event creates intentional space for conversation. Trust grows as people talk. Conversation leads to understanding. Understanding allows barriers to fall. Invitations were extended through friendships, workplaces, sports teams and neighbourhood connections. And when the day arrived — people came!
The morning was filled with warm hospitality, thoughtful discussion and open-hearted listening. One simple question — ‘What is fasting?’ — opened into a rich and respectful exploration of faith and our relationship with the divine.
Conversation in Action
Small group conversations ensured that everyone had space to speak and be heard. People shared personal experiences of faith, community and belonging. In a busy world where many barely know their neighbours, this simple act of sitting face-to-face felt both profound and hopeful.
Reflection from the Day
“Thank you for organising this morning’s get together. I didn’t know what to expect. The questions were well considered, the discussions informative and everyone there took part… the timing was perfect… the refreshments were delicious… and the goody bag was scrumptious. Looking forward to the next one.”
What’s Next?
Encouraged by the warmth and openness of this gathering, we are exploring further opportunities to continue building relationships across faith communities. Future Weaving Trust conversations are being planned, alongside potential shared initiatives during seasons such as Advent and Ramadan.
If you would like to be involved, help shape the next event, or simply stay informed, please contact info@stfrideswides.org or speak to a member of the leadership team.
Who are we?
St Frideswide’s Water Eaton is an Anglican Church in the Deanery of Milton Keynes in the Diocese of Oxford. We ‘have fun, make friends, and grow disciples of Jesus.’ We are exploring how using the tools and methodology of Community Organising can help us grow in our faith, serve our neighbours, and work for the common good.