Conselho de fé de Lincolnshire

Lincolnshire Faith Council (LFC)
Promoting Interfaith Understanding and Unity Across Lincolnshire

What is the Lincolnshire Faith Council (LFC)?
The Lincolnshire Faith Council (LFC) is a unified interfaith committee representing diverse faith communities across Lincolnshire. Built on a foundation of long-established networks and relationships, LFC exists to promote dialogue, mutual respect, and cooperation among faiths—providing a united voice in an increasingly complex world.
As Rev. Dr. Andrew Wingate noted,“Dialogue, encounter or friendship between people of faiths happens in all kinds of informal ways as they go about their daily life and work. There is also a place for groups established with the explicit intention of furthering mutual understanding.”
LFC is that space in Lincolnshire.

Composed of representatives from a wide range of religious traditions, LFC operates on a basis of mutual respect without syncretism or proselytism. Its purpose is not to merge beliefs but to foster understanding and collaboration.
Through formal links with civic bodies, educational institutions, and grassroots organisations, LFC builds on existing interfaith efforts to connect communities across the county—beyond individual towns and cities. It seeks to:

• - Promote trust, understanding, and peaceful coexistence
• - Encourage public and private interfaith cooperation
• - Represent faith perspectives to civic authorities and media
• - Offer a united faith-based response during crises, both local and global

Why Now?
In today’s climate of division, ignorance, and fear, the need for genuine interfaith dialogue is greater than ever. LFC provides a platform for faith leaders and communities to move from suspicion to friendship, from misunderstanding to mutual enrichment.
Through shared celebrations, mutual visits, and collaborative initiatives, LFC encourages community members to:

• - Learn from one another
• - Participate in each other’s cultural and religious events
• - Develop friendships that transcend religious boundaries

LFC also recognises the growing presence of ethnic and faith minority communities across Lincolnshire—migrant workers, students, and families seeking to make this county their home. The council works to ensure that places of worship, community engagement, and inclusive policies meet their needs, while promoting integration and peace.
At times of crisis—whether local or international—LFC will stand as a unified voice, offering solidarity, ethical guidance, and, where appropriate, shared public witness and prayer.

What is Interfaith?
At its heart, interfaith is about human connection. While it begins with interaction between people of different religious traditions, it goes much deeper—into genuine understanding, respect, and shared purpose.
Interfaith work is not about diluting or compromising your beliefs. It does not mean abandoning your tradition or merging all religions into one. Instead, it is about:

• - Learning about others’ faiths and deepening your own
• - Building meaningful friendships across religious boundaries
• - Appreciating both the differences and shared values among traditions
• - Confronting stereotypes, ignorance, and prejudice
• - Working together for peace, justice, and social harmony

Engaging in interfaith dialogue and activities is a powerful form of education. By encountering the practices of others, many discover a greater appreciation for their own beliefs. This understanding breaks down barriers, corrects misconceptions, and helps prevent religiously-motivated hatred and violence.
Ultimately, interfaith engagement reinforces the core truth: Every human being—regardless of belief—deserves dignity and respect.

Interested in Joining the LFC?
If your faith community or institution would like to be part of the Lincolnshire Faith Council, please get in touch. We’ll be happy to provide further information about membership and how you can contribute to this vital work.