Celebrating faith volunteers at the House of Lords

Recently, a group of CAFOD campaign volunteers joined an interfaith gathering at the House of Lords to recognise the significant contribution that faith volunteers make to society. The event brought together people from different faith traditions who are united by their commitment to serving others.

At a time when stories of war and division dominate the news, this event created a space filled with hope, offering a chance to witness the many acts of generosity and service happening quietly in our local communities as well as around the world.

Edward Marshall, a CAFOD volunteer who attended the event, said:

"It is striking how afternoon tea at the House of Lords can feel quietly significant - yet it was not so much the setting that gave the air its sense of significance, but the people.

"There was a rare honesty in the room: different faiths, certainly, and different motivations perhaps, yet a shared passion to do whatever is within our means to serve those most in need in our society, and to do so with great humility. I left with a renewed sense that our communities are not defined by the walls and stereotypes so often portrayed, but by the quiet, steady work of those building bridges in solidarity with the poor."

A shared sense of purpose

A strong thread running through the speeches and conversations was the idea that faith is a powerful force for service and that giving to others profoundly enriches our own lives too.

It was hugely inspiring to meet volunteers from Jewish and Muslim traditions and to learn about the work of other Christian groups, including St James’s Church Piccadilly. Though each story came from a different background, every speaker expressed a shared commitment to service and justice.

From providing shelter to sharing food, to offering political education, and standing in solidarity with communities affected by the climate crisis, the contributions highlighted the many ways faith groups are responding creatively and courageously to the challenges of our time.

Our neighbour isn’t just the person next door

Among those who spoke was Nana Churcher, one of CAFOD’s dedicated volunteers. Nana shared why she chooses to give her time in support of CAFOD’s international work: her Christian values.

She reminded the audience that, in the Catholic tradition, our neighbour isn’t just the person next door. It can be anyone around the world. Nana’s words captured the essence of CAFOD’s work and echoed the values at the centre of the gathering.

The afternoon was a powerful reminder that faith continues to be a driving force for positive change. During challenging times, when division often dominates public conversation, events like this show that compassion, community and hope still shape the world in quiet, transformative ways.