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Auckland is one of the most culturally, ethnically and religiously diverse cities in the world, with Temples, Mosques, Gurdwaras and Churches throughout the region.
How can we build a strong sense of community and inclusiveness in our neighbourhoods? What can be done to help immigrant communities feel accepted and integrated into the social fabric? How can misunderstandings or prejudice against religious minorities be reduced or eliminated?
One way is to open the doors to the places of worship and invite visitors to see and experience them first hand. The Auckland Inter-Faith Council is launching a new initiative this year arranging for various faith venues throughout the Auckland region to open their doors at specific times during the week of November 4 to 12, 2017.
The host communities will offer introductory tours, explain briefly to visitors how worship is conducted, and share some basics about their religion. Opportunities for questions will be provided and refreshments will be offered.
The events are free and open to the public.
Visit any of the houses of worship below at the times listed.
| Kick off Ceremony and Tour of Auckland Islamic Centre
122 Blockhouse Bay Road, Avondale (enter via Tait Street) Sat 4th Nov 2:30 p.m.-4:00 p.m. Refreshments following (No shorts please) |
| St Joseph’s Catholic Church
10 Dominion St. Takapuna Tue 7 Nov 7:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. Refreshments served |
| Gurudwara Nanaksar (Sikh Temple)
100-106 Great South Road, Manurewa Wed 8th Nov 7:00-8:30 p.m. Remove shoes at entrance. Head coverings will be provided (or bring your own). Wear loose clothing for sitting on the carpeted floor. Refreshments following
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| BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir (Hindu Temple)
21 Barrhead Place, Avondale Sun 5th Nov 3:00-4:00 p.m. Refreshments following (No shoes in the worship area)
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| Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple,
16 Stancombe Rd., Flat Bush Sat 11th Nov 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon Dress code: long pants and long-sleeved tops requested. Onsite Café available for buying lunch following the tour. Assemble in entry lobby of main building.
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| Al-Mustafa Jamia Masjid (Muslim)
26 Mangere Road, Mangere Sun. 12th Nov. 2:30 – 3:30 p.m. Refreshments following. (No shorts please) |
| Holy Trinity Cathedral (Anglican)
Cnr St Stephens Ave. & Parnell Road, Friday 10th Nov 7:00-8:00 p.m. Refreshments following |
An Initiative of the Auckland Interfaith Council
Email: nzaifc@gmail.com Website: www.aucklandinterfaithcouncil.org.nz
