Christian Witness in a Multi-faith Society

"The presence of a multiplicity of religions in our society is something which no-one can ignore, and we in the church have a special responsibility to consider our response" (Jonathan Edwards, General Secretary BUGB)

We hope that the resources listed here will help you and your church consider what our Christian response should be.

BUGB's 'Good Neighbours' study guide on living in a multi-faith society is available [here]. Further resources can be found on the BUGB website:

http://www.baptist.org.uk/crossingplaces/inter-faith.html

Faithful Neighbourhoods Centre (FNC) - is located in Sparkhill, Birmingham and has been set up to resource Christians living in a multi-faith city and to be a place where people of all faiths, and none, can meet one another and find ways of working together to improve and strengthen their local areas. It is also the Birmingham base for the Near Neighbours programme which through the provision of grants aims to connect communities and strengthen neighbourhoods by bringing people together from different ethnicities and faith traditions.  (for further details see: www.cuf.org.uk/near-neighbours/faithful-neighbourhoods)

Global connections (www.globalconnections.co.uk/faithtofaithresources) provide an extensive list of materials, websites and sources of help for individuals, churches, small groups and fellowships wishing to reach out to people of other faiths in the UK. A sample of some these resources follows:

Jesus through Asian Eyes: 15 frequently asked questions

This little booklet has been universally praised, being appropriate both for giving directly to South Asians in the UK to answer some of the common misconceptions that can stop those of a South Asian background from coming to faith in the Lord Jesus and also for helping Christians to reach out to their South Asian friends. From the South Asian Forum of the Evangelical Alliance, this resource is the result of input from a wide variety of people, who have contributed their expertise and advice.To get a copy or order a large stock, go to the South Asian Forum website.

Between Naivety and Hostility – Uncovering the Best Christian Responses to Islam in Britain

This book is a collection of thought–provoking essays on topics essential to all whose lives bring them into contact with Muslims and who wish to be able to understand their Muslim friends and their backgrounds. This book, edited by Steve Bell and Colin Chapman, contains the wisdom and experience of twenty recognised Christians who are involved in Muslim-Christian relations in Britain. The hard issues are addressed head-on and we are shown how to avoid naivety and hostility by acting Biblically and in the spirit of Jesus Christ. Available from Kitab Books, www.kitab.org.uk

Friendship First: Course Pack

This long-awaited interactive six session course, complete with film clips, practical ideas, discussion starters and ‘live’ interviews, will answer the concerns of many Christians who long to make genuine friendships with Muslims, and to share Jesus with them, but fear offending. This new resource brings new vitality, confidence and encouragement to all who relate to Muslim people in the UK. By Steve Bell and Tim Green, this is available from Kitab Books, www.kitab.org.uk