Theresa Villiers, MP for Chipping Barnet, yesterday attended an Iftar event for the Somali Bravanese Welfare Association which took place in Finchley Reform Synagogue. The community centre which the Welfare Association would normally use for such events was burnt down last summer in an attack believed to have been a hate crime. When news of the arson attack became public, many local groups came forward to offer help and Finchley Reform Synagogue (FRS) have hosted Ramadan prayers this year and last year.
The event consisted of speeches and prayers and provided a chance to reflect on common themes in judaism and islam. This was followed by the traditional breaking of the Ramadan fast. Ms Villiers was asked to address the gathering along with Finchley MP, Mike Freer.
Ms Villiers said: "At a time when the news is full of tragedy and conflict, it is heartwarming to see this example of two faith communities coming together in friendship. I feel it is a great testament to the strength of community cohesion in Barnet that at time of adversity for the Somali Bravanese community, Finchley Reform Synagogue have reached out to provide help and support."
"As Rabbi Miriam said, FRS must be one of the only synagogues to have a Ramadan committee. I know that many volunteers from the shul gave their time to keep the synagogue open for evening prayers for the Somali community."
"Sadly there are many places in the world where community division causes hurt and distress but I hope this evening provides an example of what is possible when people from different backgrounds come together to build mutual understanding and friendship."
Cllr David Longstaff attended the event to represent Barnet's Conservative Council who have pledged funding to build a new community centre to replace the building in Muswell Hill which burnt down a year ago.