Bishop John Arnold of Salford is to speak at a parade celebrating Mohammad's birthday on Sunday. The bishop will be among a number of speakers addressing the crowd before it sets off. A spokeswoman said he will talk about "recognising our differences, understanding and tolerance". In a statement Bishop Arnold said it was important to strengthen relations between faiths "at every level". He said: "In the increasing diversity of our society, it is important that we take opportunities to value different faiths and strengthen interfaith relations at every level. Recognising and participating in feasts and celebrations such as this demonstrate that we have much more in common than anything that might appear to divide us." The annual parade is organised by Manchester Central Mosque in Victoria Park and Dar ul Aloom mosque in Longsight, Manchester. The observance of Mohammad's birthday is called Mawlid, or Mawlid-un-Nabi. It is celebrated by most Muslims around the world and is a national holiday in many countries. Some denominations – including Wahhabism and Salafism – disapprove of it, considering it an unnecessary innovation.
1:05 PM
Bishop to speak at parade celebrating Mohammad's birthday
Bishop John Arnold of Salford said his presence aimed to show 'we have more in common than what might appear to divide us'
Staff Reporter

Already a subscriber? Sign in
5freearticles every month
Continue reading with a free account. No card needed.
- Five free articles every thirty days, on any device you sign in on
- The Catholic Herald newsletter, every morning
- Subscribe whenever you like for everything: every article and the magazine

subscribe to the catholic herald today
Our best content is exclusively available to our subscribers. Subscribe today and gain instant access to expert analysis, in-depth articles, and thought-provoking insights—anytime, anywhere. Don’t miss out on the conversations that matter most.
Subscribe












