Reverend Canon Dr Tom Wilson - How CanMuslims and Christians Learn to Live Well Together?

Reverend Canon Dr Tom Wilson gave an illuminating lecture addressing issues arising from How Can

Muslims and Christians Learn to Live Well Together? He focused on three main areas: scholarly

contentions where Muslims and Christians recognise similarities and differences within their faith-

based interpretation and comprehension of the nature of God, prophetic teachings and theological

texts. Secondly, on societal issues where points of divergence arise. Here Reverend Tom called for a

focus on human responsibility rather than human rights, which through productive policy and

projects can improve the life of people in the UK to flourish and thrive. Furthermore, he emphasised

the importance of social action as vehicles for societal repair and advancement and the importance

of acknowledging where power balances lie. Collaborative projects have taken many forms and

shapes in Leicester. One Roof, for example, is headed by a Muslim CEO, Salma Ravat MBE, whose

valuable work is supported by Christians to offer housing and care to vulnerable homeless people of

all faiths and none. Reverend Tom reiterated the importance of building trust between faith groups

and getting to know each other as unique individuals through relaxed and friendly means. While

faith and doctrinal differences will remain people of faith can unite over shared values that reflect a

desire to improve the lives and spiritual well-being of humanity and to follow divinely inspired paths

to promote societies that facilitate harmony and loving care for all.

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