Archbishop Nichols praises multifaith work in Birmingham

Birmingham Council House

Archbishop Vincent Nichols has praised the way that Birmingham is leading the way in the creation of a vibrant multi-faith city. The Archbishop of Westminster commended the City, its faith leaders and Birmingham University, for the way they have responded to the challenges of modern day living for the good of the city, during his speech at the 'Faiths for the City: Making A Difference', dinner held at Birmingham Council House, yesterday, 5 November.

Archbishop Nichols was warmly welcomed by the leaders of many faiths who he had worked closely with and encouraged during his time as Archbishop of Birmingham, 2000-2009.

He also spoke about the city's achievements including the promotion of a new Religious Education syllabus.

Archbishop Vincent Nichols said: "Birmingham has so much of which it can be proud, so many great figures who encapsulate its qualities. One I hope, will be added is Cardinal John Henry Newman. He was a man of outstanding academic ability, of personal integrity and religious sensitivity, and of deep social concern, who had a deep commitment to the sick and poor of Birmingham."

He concluded: "May these virtues flourish in this City of Birmingham so that all its people without exception, may flourish, too."

Lord Brian Griffiths, former Policy Advisor to Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, also spoke during the evening, hosted by Councillor Alan Rudge, Cabinet Member for Equalities and Human Resources, Birmingham City Council.

The three-day conference, facilitated by the School of Philosophy, Theology and Religion, at Birmingham University, 4-6 November, explored three themes: "Family and Neighbourliness", "Wellbeing and Health", "Wellbeing and Wealth".