Fifteen faith leaders, from across the religious spectrum, united at Sebby’s Corner to launch Mitzvah Day 2024 and commit to its theme for the year of being Stronger Together.
Mitzvah Day is the UK’s largest faith-based day of social action. The theme of Stronger Together was chosen to highlight how – in a time of unparalleled conflict abroad and division at home – Mitzvah Day gives people from diverse faiths and backgrounds the opportunity to come together, connect with each other and focus on strengthening their local community.
Announcing the theme, Mitzvah Day CEO Stuart Diamond said: “This has been a very difficult year for faith communities, but on Mitzvah Day this year we are putting that aside to focus on what matters most… being together. Together we will tackle local needs – from fighting hunger to collecting litter to bringing some cheer for those who are lonely. So let’s all roll up our sleeves and build a better society, side-by-side. Because guess what? We really are Stronger Together!”
The launch event saw Jewish, Christian, Muslim, Hindu, Baha’i and Buddhist faith leaders put on a powerful display of unity, embodying the theme in action, as they collected and sorted essential items for the children and families in need supported by Barnet-based baby bank, Sebby’s Corner.
Bishop of Edmonton, the Rt Revd Canon Dr Anderson Jeremiah, was among those taking part. He said: “At this fractious time in our communities, it is paramount that we come together in order to promote the sacred nature of humanity and peace. It is an honour that I could participate with Mitzvah Day in this critical task of building bridges and communities of love.”
Joining him were Bishop John Sherrington (Diocese of Westminster), Rev Dr Julie Gittoes (trustee of Mitzvah Day, and vicar at the Parish of St Mary and Christ Church), Rabbi Tanya Sakhnovich (Edgware and Hendon Reform Synagogue), Rabbi Adam Zagoria-Moffet (St Albans Masorti Synagogue), Akhtar Zaman (St Albans Islamic Centre), Esmond Rosen (President of the Barnet Multi Faith Forum), Christina Spybey (Faith House), Foujan Jenner (Baha’i House of Worship), Suchita Rajadhyaksha (various Hindu temples), Rumela Kundu (Soka Gakkai International), Amir Ohadi (Shia Ithna’ashari Community of Middlesex), and Hemali Naik, Krushali Kataria and Manisha Depala (BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha).
Sebby’s Corner Founder and CEO Bianca Sakol MBE said: “We are delighted to be working together with Mitzvah Day at this launch and throughout the year – exemplifying the difference that collective action can make in creating a more compassionate and supportive society for those who are most vulnerable.”
Concluding the event, Mitzvah Day Found and Chair Laura Marks CBE said: “What an absolute joy to have our brand-new Bishop of Edmonton and local clergy and faith leaders together for our launch, helping Sebby’s Corner with their essential work supporting local people in desperate need. This Mitzvah Day our focus is on the everyday and the local – because right now that is where we can make a difference and where we are always Stronger Together.”
Mitzvah Day will take place on and around Sunday 24 November 2024,
For information on how your church can run a Mitzvah Day project please click here, and to register your event please visit the website www.mitzvahday.org.uk
Images by Yakir Zur