Bishops and Primates from around the Anglican Communion were amongst a host of people who took part in discussions on religious leadership this week hosted by Archbishop Justin Welby and featuring the Grand Imam of al-Azhar, Ahmed el-Tayeb. The Bishop of Egypt, Mouneer Anis, was amongst those who took part in the discussions at Lambeth Palace, the London official residence and offices of the Archbishop of Canterbury.

“I’m delighted to welcome the Grand Imam of al-Azhar to Lambeth Palace,” Archbishop Justin said at the start of the meeting. “Over the coming days, I’m looking forward to discussing religious leadership that respects difference and respects those who are different – so that faith communities address conflict and help their societies to thrive.

“I’m also excited to spend time with the young Christians and Muslims from around the world who are joining us to talk about religious leadership, peace and reconciliation, and how we can help create flourishing societies.”

Last night (Tuesday), Archbishop Justin expressed his thanks to the Grand Imam “for an honest and hope-filled conversation about the role of religious leaders in our world today” and the Christian and Muslim Emerging Peacemakers for their “challenging questions and inspiring contributions.”

Amongst the Anglican Communion representatives taking part in the discussions were Bishop Paul Sarker, Primate and Moderator of the united Church of Bangladesh, Bishop Humphrey Peters, Primate and Moderator of the united Church of Pakistan, Bishop Pradeep Samantaroy of the united Church of North India’s Diocese of Amritsar, Dean Hosam Naoum from St George’s Cathedral in Jerusalem, and the Secretary General of the Anglican Communion, Dr Josiah Idowu-Fearon.

Clergy from the Church of England also took part, including the Bishop of London, Sarah Mullally, and the Canon Pastor of St Paul’s Cathedral, Tricia Hillas.