St Chad’s Cathedral hosted a national interfaith gathering on Sunday 26 October 2025

The Archdiocese of Birmingham was honoured to host the national celebration marking the 60th anniversary of Nostra Aetate — the Second Vatican Council’s groundbreaking declaration on the Catholic Church’s relations with non-Christian religions.

Vespers took place at St Chad’s Cathedral, the Mother Church of the Archdiocese, bringing together faith leaders and representatives from across England and Wales to give thanks for six decades of dialogue and collaboration between faith communities. Click to download the programme.

When Nostra Aetate (In Our Time) was promulgated by Pope Saint Paul VI on 28 October 1965, it represented a turning point in the Church’s relationship with people of other faiths. The document invited Catholics to recognise the “rays of truth” reflected in other religions and to work together in a spirit of respect and friendship.

In his welcome message, Archbishop Bernard Longley reflected on the lasting significance of this vision:

“At the time of its publication, this short but very important declaration expressed a clear vision and intent on the part of the Catholic Church to recognise those ‘rays of truth’ and goodness reflected in other religions, so as to initiate and promote a deeper dialogue between us all. Although written over half a century ago, these words remain as important and relevant as ever.”

The Archbishop also gave thanks to all who have contributed to interfaith relations locally and nationally, encouraging renewed commitment to “this important work for the good of the Church and the world that we serve.”

The day opened with a panel discussion titled “Dying to Live: The capacity of faith communities in Birmingham to discuss end-of-life concerns.” The discussion, moderated by Associate Professor Maggie Doherty, Centre Lead for The Art of Living and Dying Well at St Mary’s University, explored how faith perspectives can inform compassionate care at the end of life.

The celebration continued with Sung Vespers, including reflections from representatives of Jewish, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist and Sikh communities, expressing shared values of peace, compassion and hope. Music was provided by the choirs of English Martyrs’ Catholic School, Leicester, and St Paul’s Catholic School, creating a prayerful and uplifting atmosphere.

In his message for the occasion, Bishop Patrick McKinney, Lead Catholic Bishop for Interreligious Dialogue, emphasised that Nostra Aetate “paved the way for a new era of understanding” and continues to guide efforts to build bridges of harmony in a divided world.

Looking to the future

Sixty years after Nostra Aetate first called the Church to dialogue and respect, the work of interreligious friendship remains a vital witness to the Gospel. In the words of Bishop Michael Volland, Anglican Bishop of Birmingham:

“A hopeful future for humankind will emerge only from a recognition that everyone is our neighbour. All other progress, if it is to truly benefit humankind, must flow from an understanding of mercy towards our neighbour.”

The Archdiocese extends warm thanks to all who participated in this historic celebration, and to everyone continuing the work of dialogue, friendship and peace across our communities.

Images c. cbcew/mazur

Photo Gallery - 60 Years of Nostra Aetate