On May 19, 2025, the Collins Center for Abrahamic Heritage hosted an inspiring interfaith gathering in collaboration with AUGB Glasgow and Interfaith Scotland, with support from the Acton Institute, the Russell Berrie Foundation, and the John Paul II Center for Interreligious Dialogue.
The event, Shared Horizons: Walking Together in Faith, Hope, and Freedom, brought together voices from different religious traditions to reflect on the timeless practice of pilgrimage. Pilgrimage, with its unique rituals and sacred destinations, connects people to faith, hope, and the divine—while reminding us of the shared humanity that unites us across traditions.
A central theme of the evening was the fundamental human right to religious liberty: the freedom to believe, to practice, and to embark on journeys of faith without fear or restriction. Through dialogue, participants explored how Christianity and Islam understand pilgrimage, and how hope and freedom serve as common values guiding believers in their spiritual lives.
Speakers and Reflections
- Muhammad Haikal Adzmir (Interfaith leader, Malaysia) shared from the Islamic tradition about the profound spiritual meaning of the Hajj and Umrah. He noted how pilgrimage brings Muslims into a deeper awareness of both their own spiritual journey and their unity with others.
- Rev. Andriy Chorenko (Ukrainian Greek-Catholic Church) spoke movingly about the Ukrainian experience of pilgrimage, particularly in times of war. He emphasized how pilgrimage becomes not only a spiritual journey but also an act of resilience, hope, and solidarity for those seeking peace amidst suffering.
Dr. Taras Dzyubanskyy (Collins Center for Abrahamic Heritage) highlighted the universal character of pilgrimage across traditions, framing it as both an outward and inward journey. He spoke on the importance of religious liberty as a foundation for peaceful coexistence, underscoring how the freedom to walk one’s path of faith enriches the whole human family.
- Rev. Fr. Anthony Canon Gallagher (Roman Catholic Church, Glasgow) reflected on Christian pilgrimage, especially to sites connected with the lives of saints. He reminded participants that pilgrimage is not just about movement, but about transformation.
“A true pilgrimage is not measured in miles walked but in hearts changed. We go to holy places not simply to arrive there, but so that when we return, we carry that holiness into our daily lives and communities.”
- Rev. Mark Mitchell (Orthodox tradition) offered insights on pilgrimage as a practice of humility, repentance, and transformation. He reminded participants that pilgrimage is not just about reaching a sacred destination, but about being changed along the way — growing closer to God and to one another.
- Dr. Larysa Zhadankina (educator and interfaith scholar) spoke about the values of hope and freedom as unifying forces across faiths. She emphasized the importance of interfaith dialogue as a form of pilgrimage itself — a shared journey toward understanding, friendship, and peace.
Walking Together
The gathering was held at the Ukrainian Club in Glasgow, where the warmth of hospitality and the openness of dialogue created a truly memorable atmosphere. Light refreshments were shared as conversations continued informally, building new friendships and strengthening bonds across communities.
