Print Comments (1) Email

BBC interview over religious symbol controversy

Reporter: Laura Wild
Date online: 09 December 2009

Following the controversial decision by Rochdale Council to include symbols from other religions in its Christmas lights display this year, BBC Religion interviewed the Mayor of Rochdale, Councillor Keith Swift, today (Wednesday 9 December) to find out why.

The Rochdale Christmas lights this year were switched on by X-factor finalist Jamie Archer and attracted a huge crowd; however, for some there have been questions as to why lights for other faiths have been included in the 'CHRISTmas' lights display.

Mayor Swift, said: “Rochdale town centre lights switch on was such a success and people gathered in record numbers.

“This has led to national attention and the BBC has come to find out why we have put on a multi-faith lights display.

“Christmas time is a time of hope, new light and new beginnings and we want to pass the Christmas message to everybody.”

The interview will be broadcast in the New Year and presented by Nicky Campbell.

Comments

I could understand why people are interested - why there are other faiths depicted in Rochdale's Christmas lights - if the Christain C of E churches were full to the doors.
Catholics, Musims, Jews and other faiths are part of our society and according to Christian belief God created all mankind to be equal.