Following the recent riots in Manchester and other UK Cities, on 17th September 2011, Rev Ian Spence and Sister Edith led a special ‘Yatra’ to demonstrate togetherness, friendship and goodwill amongst all faith communities in East Manchester. More than 35 local residents joined the walk for peace visiting 15 places of worship
Rev. Sally Thomas and Mr Peter Clegg, both of whom visit the Jain Community Centre regularly and have become good friends of the Centre were also part of the ‘Yatra’.
The visitors took part in a short meditation session and a prayer whilst at the temple. A short talk was given on one of Jains’ most sacred pilgrimage site, Palitana. Both Rev. Sally Thomas and Mr Peter Clegg were so impressed with talk that they have decided to take part in a yatra to Palitana in 2012 with Jain Centre members.
After taking some refreshments, the group continued on its yatra visiting a further 14 places of worship. The yatra was completed by mid-afternoon.
A short talk was given on the holy centre of Palitana during the visit and were so impressed that they are now intending to go on a pilgrimage with a group of friends to Palitana around early 2012.
Rev. Spence was highly impressed with the white Marble Temple and the beautiful idols. He said that he felt a special aura in the Temple and found the atmosphere very peaceful. His young son described the Temple as “magnificent”. Both of them, together with many others promised to visit the Jain Centre again.