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Moseley Chimes
Dec 08—Jan 09
I had been looking forward to an interfaith trip to London but had not taken into account the weather. To awake to a snow-covered Moseley in October just as I had been enjoying an Indian summer came as a shock. However after Harry, Peter and Soifer had seen us all safely aboard our coach we set off promptly at 8:00 a.m. Unfortunately, we found ourselves in a long queue on the Ml. Though the journey was a little tedious we were soon passing the sweets round and conversing with our neighbours. In my case it happened to be a small party of Baha’is from Sutton Coldfield and so I was able to learn a little of their faith before reaching our destination.
When we got to their centre in Knightsbridge I was very impressed with the welcome we were given despite our late arrival. Cups of coffee, tea and biscuits were immediately distributed. After a brief talk about the history of the Baha’is we were invited to go on a tour of the building which is beautiful. Situated opposite gardens in a leafy square. It is a fine example of a Georgian residence that can be found in this part of London. This is now owned by the Baha’i UK Organisation.
All too soon it was time to leave and drive to Regent Park Mosque. On arrival we received another warm welcome. After walking through the imposing entrance to the mosque we stood in the outer courtyard admiring the outside of the building before making out way into the main inner room used by Muslims and visitors for prayer. Once inside I was struck by the size of the complex with its many rooms including a restaurant which is open to all worshippers and visitors alike.
Apparently the mosque is the oldest in London and was granted special permission by royalty to be built in Regent Park. Once seated our small group were given a short presentation about the building and we were invited to ask questions. I was interested to hear about the purpose of the dome which, apparently depending on its size and shape, contributes towards the acoustics of a mosque. By now our stomachs were beginning to rumble as many of our party had not eaten since breakfast. Our Muslim guide and our leaders were turning their attention on what should have been lunch but now would be an early supper in the restaurant. Very soon I was enjoying curry, rice and naan bread. Sharing the experiences of the day with the Baha’is from Sutton Coldfield.
As our coach joined the queue on the M1 this time going to Brum, I reflected on what a lovely day it had been. Despite the difficulties caused by the delay in our arriving in London, our leaders had always been there to encourage and inform us. Many thanks to Soifer, Harry, Peter and Jude. I look forward eagerly to our next trip or should I say pilgrimage.