Faith in the city on Peace Walk
A SCOTTISH faith group are due to be holding their annual Peace Walk in Dunfermline today (Thursday).
The Scottish Ahlul Bayt Society (SABS) is a faith group working to meet the needs of the Scottish Shia Muslim community through works in partnership across the country on cultural, social and religious projects.
This year they are holding their pilgrimage through Dunfermline, and stopping off at local landmarks along the way.
Azhar Hussnain the general secretary of SABS, said: “Every year, during the second month of the Islamic Calendar on the 40th day following the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, millions of Muslims undertake a pilgrimage.
“This pilgrimage is a walk between the Holy Cities of Najaf and Karbala in Iraq. The walk signifies peace, hope, justice, and the loftiest human ideals.
“Here in Scotland, the Scottish Ahlul Bayt Society has replicated that walk, The Arba’een Walk. Initially held in Glasgow and subsequently brought to Edinburgh, the walk showcased a successful collaboration between faith and non-faith communities, as well as civic leaders across the board.”
The Peace Walks were started by the charity as a way of fostering stronger relationships and forging new connections across the country.
The Dunfermline walk, starting at Queen Margaret Hospital, is led by Ameed Versace, SABS’ resilient earth director.
The group is due to walk across the city, stopping off at Dunfermline Athletic Football Club, Dunfermline Central Mosque, Dunfermline Fire Station, Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, St Margaret’s Memorial RC Church, Dunfermline Police Station, Fire Station Creative, St Margarets Cave, Carnegie Trust, Pittencrieff Park, Andrew
Carnegie Birthplace Museum, Dunfermline Abbey and Palace, Dunfermline Carnegie Library and Gallery and Abbot House.
To mark the end of their pilgrimage, they will convene at the Dunfermline City Chambers where a private civic reception sponsored by Provost Leishman will take place.
Mr Hussnain added: “This year’s walk will be even more impactful as it takes place in Dunfermline and its new surroundings.
“It embodies the fellowship that exists among individuals from diverse backgrounds and has garnered the support of the Provost of Fife and the city.”