Thought for the Week

AS I write this, One World Week is being observed. Its theme, agreed with our European partners, is “Including You – Acting Together for One World in Peace.” The context has been the reactions to the terrorist attacks and the arrival of refugees and other migrants in Europe over the past two years. One World Week provides an opportunity to bring people together to hear each other’s stories and to work together, nationally and locally, to inspire everyone to build a culture of peace. Sadly the eruption of xenophobia and racism during and since the Referendum has shown the pressing need to address people’s fears and prejudices over the migration issue. Across the globe, millions of men, women and children are migrating in search of a better life – safety and security, food, a home, education, healthcare and employment. Everybody can, including you, meet with, make welcome and support all newcomers. We need to talk together with new neighbours, understand their situations and include them in our communities. Sharing experiences and getting to know each other enables us to build a culture of inclusion and living together in peace and harmony.