News Release

Women faith leaders meet in Wales to discuss faithful living

Newport (Wales) – Local and international women’s leaders from Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, and Christian communities gathered on February 9, 2018, in the Welsh city of Newport to engage in dialogue about ‘Living faithfully in an increasingly secular world’.  Speakers at the ‘World Women’s Interfaith Conference’ offered personal experience on how their religious conviction has helped them navigate life in a positive way.

 

Two top women leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons), Sister Jean B. Bingham and Sister Joy D. Jones, commenced their ten-day trip to Europe by attending the interfaith conference held at the Celtic Manor Resort.

“When we unite together as women of faith, we not only strengthen the relationship between religions, but individual lives are touched as we reach out to those in need”, said Sister Jean B. Bingham, general president of the Church’s Relief Society in front of over 300 attendees.  The Relief Society is one of the oldest and largest women’s organizations in the world. She was accompanied by Sister Joy D. Jones, general president of the Primary for the Church. The Primary presidency oversees the Church’s organization that teaches children ages 18 months to 11 years.

“At this time of religious misunderstanding, it’s refreshing to meet with like-minded women who focus on sharing our common values and have a desire to benefit communities,” said Amanda Morris, Muslim Council of Wales, about her participation in the conference.

As part of the conference, those in attendance had the opportunity to participate in a service project benefiting Samara’s Aid Appeal.  One hundred bags for women and girls were assembled from donations gathered beforehand.

“One hundred percent of everything used for the service project has been donated for the benefit of Samara’s Aid,” commented Julie Jones, member of the Wales Interfaith Council and event coordinator. “Working together for a good cause, side by side, brings women of all faiths together in a special way.”

Samara’s Aid Appeal is an initiative based in the United Kingdom and provides humanitarian aid in the Middle East and elsewhere.

Sister Bingham and Sister Jones will continue their trip by visiting with congregations to lend counsel and encouragement to Mormons in several European countries.

Style Guide Note:When reporting about The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, please use the complete name of the Church in the first reference. For more information on the use of the name of the Church, go to our online Style Guide.