On Sunday, 17 May 2026, members of the Unity in Diversity Forum gathered at the beautiful ASHA Centre in the Forest of Dean for a special inter-faith planning retreat held over the weekend. Around 20 participants from diverse faiths and beliefs came together to build meaningful relationships and deepen mutual understanding.

The retreat provided a wonderful opportunity for participants to share their cultures, faith traditions, and spiritual practices in an atmosphere of respect and harmony. Through open discussions and heartfelt interactions, everyone was able to appreciate the common values shared among different faiths while also recognising the unique strengths and contributions each tradition brings.

During the retreat, the group also spent valuable time discussing future plans and shared actions for 2026–2027, focusing on how they can continue moving forward together in unity and cooperation.

Although the forum members had been connecting through online meetings over the past year, meeting in person created a very special and uplifting experience for all. The peaceful and spiritually enriching environment of the ASHA Centre added greatly to the success of the gathering and made the weekend a rich learning experience for everyone involved.

Special gratitude was expressed to Zerbanoo Gifford, founder of the ASHA Centre, and her dedicated team for their thoughtful hospitality and loving care throughout the retreat. Participants shared that they felt truly welcomed like family and deeply appreciated the generous support and contribution that made the weekend both memorable and valuable.