Colchester City Council is pleased to announce the formation of a new Multi-Faith Committee, an initiative designed to bring together leaders from across the city’s many faith communities to promote inclusion, mutual understanding, and shared support.
The announcement coincides with Interfaith Week 2025, a national celebration of dialogue and cooperation between different faiths. The Council is facilitating the initial coordination of the committee, but it will be shaped and led by faith representatives themselves. The committee will provide a space for faith leaders to meet regularly, share perspectives and work together to support the wellbeing of Colchester’s diverse communities.
The idea for the committee was developed following a historic Council meeting in October, where representatives from Jewish, Muslim and Christian communities came together to offer prayers in remembrance of victims of the recent Manchester tragedy. It was the first time a multi-faith reflection had opened a Council session in Colchester, and it marked a significant moment of unity and shared purpose.
The Multi-Faith Committee will meet quarterly, with additional meetings convened if needed in response to specific events. One of its key roles will be to coordinate a joint response from faith leaders during times of difficulty or tension, including issuing public statements of support and solidarity. The committee will also work closely with Essex Police, who will be invited to join the group to help inform its discussions and strengthen collaboration.
In addition to its role in crisis response, the committee will encourage respectful conversations between different faiths, helping to foster deeper understanding and build stronger relationships across communities. It will support wider efforts to promote community cohesion and will play a central role in organising events and initiatives that celebrate the cultural and spiritual richness of Colchester.
Councillor David King, Leader of Colchester City Council, said: “Colchester is a city of many faiths, and this committee will help us build stronger connections between communities. We are proud to support this initiative, which will be led by faith leaders and shaped by their shared values and vision. It will ensure that, when challenges arise, we respond together with compassion, clarity and unity.”
Councillor Michael Lilley, Mayor of Colchester, added: “The multi-faith prayers at our recent Council meeting were a powerful reminder of the values we share. This committee will help us continue that journey, creating a space for dialogue, reflection and collective action.”
Chairman of Colchester Mosque, Mohammed Mozir Uddin, shared his support for the initiative: “This Multi-Faith Committee is a welcome and timely step towards strengthening the bonds between our communities. As Muslims, we value peace, dialogue and mutual respect, and we are proud to stand alongside other faiths in building a more united and compassionate Colchester.”
Ruth Stone, Lay Reader, Colchester and District Jewish Community, added: "We welcome this new initiative and look forward to working alongside our fellow faith leaders as we go forward together.”
Colchester City Council is now inviting faith-based organisations and community leaders to register their interest in joining the Multi-Faith Committee. Expressions of interest can be submitted via email to cabinetofficer@colchester.gov.uk.
This Interfaith Week, Colchester reaffirms its commitment to inclusion, dialogue, and community spirit, and welcomes all faiths to be part of this important new chapter.
Page last reviewed: 10 November 2025