Uniting for Peace & Friendship Service
The Uniting for Peace and Friendship service is a growing annual tradition hosted by the Edinburgh Interfaith Association (EIFA), bringing together individuals and communities from diverse faiths and backgrounds to stand in solidarity for peace, compassion, and mutual understanding.
First held in 2023 in partnership with The Oxford Foundation, this special service began as a heartfelt response to the need for unity in the face of growing division and unrest in the world. The inaugural service featured shared prayers, reflections, poetry, and music from a wide range of faith communities — each contributing their voice to a shared vision of peace.
Nov 20, 2023
In 2025, on the 12th of November, EIFA held its third annual Uniting for Peace and Friendship service. Whereas the previous services had been held in two of the city’s cathedrals, 2025’s event took place in the University of Edinburgh.
A group of students of different faiths from the University Chaplaincy decorated the lecture theatre for the occasion, and everyone was welcomed as they arrived by some beautiful sitar playing. At the heart of the service was a series of inspiring presentations by representatives of nine faith and belief traditions: Bahá’í, Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Humanist, Jewish, Muslim, Pagan/Heathen and Sikh. From the Karanīya Mettā Sutta (the Buddha’s Discourse on Loving-Kindness) to a Humanist prayer for peace; from a Sikh Shabad recited by two young members of the Sikh community to a rousing song by the Mountain of Fire & Miracles Ministry Choir; from a reading from the Palestinian/Israeli Parents’ Circle Families Forum to music inspired by the Bahá’í writings – all nine presentations left us deeply moved, inspired and uplifted.
The opening remarks were given by the Lord Provost and a great supporter of EIFA, The Rt Hon. Cllr Robert Aldridge. Later in the service, a Peace Candle was lit, accompanied by a blessing from members of the Brahma Kumaris and followed by an extended moment of silence. All those present joined together in reciting a Pledge for Peace. And as the culmination of the evening, there was a special presentation by Jayboi, a wonderful Nigerian singer, music writer and rapper, who with his wife Natalie had travelled from Redcar to be with us for the service. Jayboi and Natalie had sadly been targets of racism in the UK, and it was a powerful experience to have Jayboi leading us in the conclusion of the service with his message of love and unity. A message that had shone out throughout the evening.
Each gathering is a testament to the belief that peace is possible when people come together in friendship and respect.
If you or your organisation are interested in getting involved in future Uniting for Peace and Friendship services, please get in touch with us at: info@edinburghinterfaith.com.
