Sunday 12th September 2010 2.30 pm

Forbury Gardens Reading, South Street Mosque, Christ Church, Reading Hindu Temple.

This event, organised by the Reading Interfaith Group was started in response to 9/11 and the subsequent war in Afghanistan. At the time Reading people were saddened and appalled over terrorist atrocities but also held many different views as to how the problem could be put right.

The Friendship Walk marked a point of consensus. It was felt that whatever views and opinions were being expressed politically, the need for friendship and understanding remained vital.

The search for peace begins with forgiveness. Through the Walk Reading people reach out in friendship, getting to know each other and starting with their own community.

So far there have been Friendship Walks  in 2001, 2003, 2004,2005,2006 and 2008. Each time several hundred people from different faith and cultural backgrounds have joined in.

This generous and committed support by the people of Reading has taken us completely by surprise. In 2001 on a very wet afternoon, we never thought that first walk would ever be repeated. A hurriedly put together banner had only been intended for use in a single afternoon.

Frequently Asked Questions

1 - Why are you doing this?

We believe every human being is capable of showing love and worth being loved.

2 - Do you have to be religious to take part?

No, Whilst some of the Reading Interfaith Group events are about understanding different religions, the Friendship Walk is based primarily on having faith in the people of Reading.

3 - Do you have to be very fit to take part?

No, The Friendship Walk is not intended as a test of endurance and would not be appropriate as a sponsored event.

Our route in 2010 is much shorter than in previous years to allow for greater inclusion.

Participants should only walk as far as they wish.

4 - Is there any money involved?

The Friendship Walk is free for all participants and not a fund-raising event.

5 - Who pays for this event?

The Reading Interfaith Group pays. We rely on voluntary donations and our membership to fund our work. The Reading Interfaith Group is not funded by grants or any other organisation.

6 - Do I need to wear anything special for the Friendship Walk?

It is best to dress in a way unlikely to cause offence and different faiths vary in their expectations with regards to modesty. Some places of worship ask visitors to cover their heads and do be prepared at times to remove your shoes.

7- I believe my religion is the best: why should it be necessary to mix with other faiths?

All religions teach us to love one another. That is all the Friendship Walk is about. 

8 - Is this a suitable event for the whole family?

The Friendship Walk is not a demonstration; there are no safety or public order issues other than a need to observe basic road safety. Many children have taken part in the Friendship Walk as part of their education and gained from the experience. It is seen as being something fun and a little unusual with the food being an obvious asset! The Friendship Walk is however not appropriate for dogs, even those who happen to own their families! The streets of Reading and the venues we visit are generally accessible for people with wheelchairs, our shorter route should make it easier for those who need to go a bit more slowly.

9 - How can I help?

We need you to let people know what the Friendship Walk is about (an event open to anyone wishing to take part regardless of culture, nationality, faith or non-faith background) and what it is not about. (It is not about improving fitness, a fund-raising event, designed to convert people or political in any way.)

To help achieve this we have produced a leaflet and a poster which you can distribute in suitable locations all over Reading for anyone interested to take away and read. If you are able to help distribute these leaflets or would be willing to find poster sites please do, if you need large numbers of leaflets or posters please let us know

You can share details of this event on facebook and invite your friends and join our facebook group

More details of how to help are in our guide how you can help

You can also help us by becoming a member or making a donation

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