The Bath University Islamic Society hosted an interfaith dialogue on Tuesday 28th April on ‘Faith and the Future of Our Planet’ with Bishop Michael and Imam Mohammed. It was open to all and several Bath IFG guests attended.

Bishop Michael reflected on Judeo‑Christian creation theology, highlighting creation as fundamentally good, humanity’s shared dignity as bearers of God’s image, and the call to stewardship rather than domination of the earth. He challenged narratives that justify violence and exploitation of people or planet as a means of creating a “new world.”

Imam Mohammed drew on Qur’anic teachings that present the natural world as āyāt (signs) and the earth as a divine trust (amānah). He explored why knowledge of environmental harm does not automatically lead to change, arguing that the missing link between belief and action is conviction or inner transformation that addresses habit, pride, and convenience.

Both speakers affirmed that the environmental crisis is spiritual, ethical, and human, not merely technical, or political.

The Q&A session was good, challenging, and engaging, with participants drawing connections between the two faith perspectives, probing the causes of ongoing exploitation, and reflecting on how conviction, humility, and stewardship might be nurtured at both personal and institutional levels. The questions demonstrated serious engagement and a willingness to wrestle with difficult issues rather than seeking easy answers.

The dialogue offered a powerful example of interfaith engagement rooted in shared concern for the planet and for human dignity. It affirmed that faith communities have an essential role to play not only in articulating ethical principles, but in shaping conviction, character, and action for the long-term wellbeing of our world.

Report by Narinder Tegally