Year 8 Scholars visit Synagogue and Mosque

On the morning of Tuesday 7th June, a group of Year 8 Scholars went to visit Brighton and Hove Reform Synagogue and the Al Quds Mosque. The aim of the trip was for the children to broaden their knowledge and experience of these religions by taking the opportunity to enter these places of worship and ask questions directly. Both speakers at the Mosque and Synagogue were excellent. The children learnt a lot about both religions and asked perceptive and thoughtful questions. Highlights included learning a song in the Synagogue and hearing the call to prayer in the Mosque. Discussion ranged from the place of women in Islam and the distorted view of Islam often peddled by the media to the devastating effect of the Holocaust on Judaism. Ultimately, all the children were made aware of the central importance of religious belief and practice to followers of Islam and Judaism. As well as being able to compare and contrast both religions, they also left with a greater respect and understanding for both.