Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, is celebrated on Thursday, November 4 this year, and our bishops have sent the below greeting to our Hindu friends, colleagues and communities on this occasion.
"We send our warmest greetings to all those celebrating Diwali.
"We are grateful for the good relations between the parishes and chaplaincies of the Anglican Diocese of Leeds and our Hindu communities.
"These good relations include Christian and Hindu neighbours and colleagues reaching out to one another during the coronavirus pandemic as well as community groups working together for the common good.
"Our Archbishop of Canterbury is hosting a reception for Hindu leaders at Lambeth Palace in November to show his appreciation for the contribution that your communities make in so many areas of our national life.
"We continue to be aware of the devastating impact of the coronavirus pandemic for so many.
"Please be assured of our ongoing prayers for all those affected, both here in the UK and throughout the world.
"Our collective experiences over the past 18 months have highlighted the significance of the message of Diwali, that good will overcome evil and that light will triumph over darkness.
"And so, as we look forward to the year ahead, we pray that the lights of Diwali may symbolise the renewal of life and hope, and we wish you a joyful, peaceful and blessed Diwali."
Bishop Nick
Bishop Helen-Ann
Bishop Jonathan
Bishop Paul
Bishop Toby
Bishop Tony