Stepping through the Ladies Entrance of Birmingham Central Mosque, I felt a mix of anticipation and reflection as I prepared to meet two significant figures: Imam Mohammed Asad of Birmingham Central Mosque and Archbishop Bernard Longley of Birmingham.
Out of respect, I donned my headscarf as soon as I entered and removed my trainers, placing them alongside the many pairs belonging to worshippers gathered for Jummah Friday prayers. Following the flow of female attendees, I ascended the marble stairs to the prayer room, where I awaited my meeting near a modest door labeled ‘Men only.’
In keeping with Islamic tradition, men and women pray separately, with female worshippers gathered upstairs as the Archbishop observed the Friday prayers below. At precisely 1:35pm, the Imam concluded his sermon. Shortly after a brief phone call, he appeared in vibrant traditional attire – a colorful thobe, mashlah, and ghutra – greeting me warmly.
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He led me to a cozy room furnished with three leather sofas perched by a window overlooking Highgate, inviting me to sit while he fetched the Archbishop. Meeting two prominent religious leaders together is a rare and intriguing experience, especially given their differing faiths.
As the daughter of a Pakistani Muslim father and an English Christian mother, witnessing these two faiths come together challenged my perspective on religion. Archbishop Longley entered wearing his traditional cassock with deep red trim, a skullcap, and a cross pendant. Offering a respectful bow and prayerful gesture, he joined Imam Asad, and both settled into conversation.
Their genuine friendship was evident as they discussed themes of unity, friendship, and the shared strength their faiths provide. Both leaders expressed their practice of visiting each other’s places of worship to observe prayers and learn from one another.
They exchanged meaningful gifts: the Imam received a document from the Vatican, while the Archbishop was given a pack of dates. Despite their grand roles in the Birmingham community, both conveyed a sense of approachability and humility.
As our discussion on faith, peace, and education came to a close, I was struck by how much we all have in common. Being raised between the Black Country and Manchester, and knowing the Archbishop is a northerner too, brought light moments as we shared memories of youth and schooling – reminders of our shared humanity.
As we parted, the Imam presented me with a mug adorned with images of the Birmingham Central Mosque, a keepsake symbolizing the connection forged that afternoon.
What I took away from this meeting? Religion should unite, not divide. In a city as diverse as Birmingham, seeing faith leaders embodying peace and mutual respect offers a powerful example. Though born Muslim, I see religion as deeply personal and rich in potential to bring communities together.