CHRISTIANS, Jews, Muslims, Hindus and Buddhists are taking part in York’s Interfaith Week, which aims to build good relations between people of different beliefs.

Running until November 20, a series of talks, gatherings, open days and meals will be held at various places of worship across the city by the York Interfaith Group.

Yesterday representatives from York’s diverse faith and religious groups attended the annual open day at York Mosque and Islamic Centre in Bull Lane.

Among the guests given a tour of the building and meeting with members of the mosque was Vivienne Faull, the Dean of York.

She said: “For many people, the idea of stepping inside a mosque will provoke a range of emotions from apprehension through to excitement and curiosity.

“What they will discover is a generous and kind community that is keen to inform, educate and share knowledge with their local neighbours. This is what Interfaith Week York does so well: bringing together people of all faiths and none, to find a space where we can respect, appreciate and celebrate religious diversity and difference.”

Commenting on the open day at the Mosque, Imam Abid Salik, said: “At a time when Islam and Muslims are demonised anywhere and everywhere you look, it’s an amazing show of solidarity, unity and community spirit to be able to come together for one cause.

“We hope the visit will be one of inspiration, love and understanding for all those who take part”.

Among the many other events to be held, daily guided tours of the Minster are offered hourly from 10am to 3pm. They will include references the different faiths represented in the Minster’s history and fabric. For more about other events, visit http://www.yorkinterfaith.org/