National Interfaith Forum Held in Dunedin

On 27th June, representatives from 10 different religious groups gathered at Dunedin Morman Church to attend the “National Interfaith Forum”. Delegation from Fo Guang Shan included Venerable Abbess Manshin, South Island Temple Minister in Charge Venerable Juexi, Venerable Zhiming, BLIA North Island President Dolly Tsai and other BLIA Committee Members.

Other VIPs included Wesley’s Chapel Reverend Dr. Lord Leslie Griffiths, Dunedin Vice-Mayor Chris Staynes, Green Party MP Metiria Turei, South Dunedin Local MP Clare Curran, North Dunedin Local MP David Clark and many others.

During discussion, the importance of religion’s role on upholding morality for society and the importance of interfaith dialogue were discussion. The current state of harmony because New Zealand’s over 230 ethnicities and their respective religion is a rare indeed, hence should be cherished. Therefore New Zealand will continue with its effort to ensure there will be no racism, freedom of expression and harmonious co-existence for all religious groups. Furthermore, it is hoped that religious practitioners can achieve common ground for co-operation to enable deeper dialogue for the future.

5 different religious representatives from Auckland, Waikato, Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin gave eloquent speeches to share the achievement religion amongst multiculturalism. Through which the mutual co-operation, learning, understanding and respect were expressed.

The night’s forum was wrapped up with a meticulously prepared vegetarian dinner and performances of cultural dancing and singing. All participants hoped that the 3 day forum will allow all religion to flourish in New Zealand harmoniously.