As Hindu people celebrate Diwali, their festival of light triumphing over darkness, our bishops have sent a message of greeting and goodwill.
During Diwali, temples, homes, shops and office buildings are brightly lit and the festival, commencing today on Monday, October 24, typically lasts five days.
The message reads:
"On behalf of the Anglican Diocese of Leeds, we wish all those celebrating Diwali a blessed time with your families and friends.
"As you celebrate this festival of lights and herald in your New Year, we are grateful for the strong relationships that hold Christians and Hindus together across our Diocese.
"We appreciate the way in which we have been able to work together for the common good, especially during the difficult times that our communities have faced because of the COVID pandemic.
"We together mourned the death of our late Majesty, Queen Elizabeth and the proclamation of our new King Charles III.
"As our neighbourhoods now face new challenges, especially with the cost of living crisis, we recognise the importance of different faiths standing together publicly, and we assure you of our prayers.
"May this Diwali bring you joy and light!"
Bishop Nick
Bishop Arun
Bishop Helen-Ann
Bishop Toby
Bishop Tony