Statement from Bhai Sahib Mohinder Singh from Rome at the funeral of His Holiness Pope Francis

April 26, 2025 by

As the bells of Rome toll in solemn farewell, the world pauses to honour the life and spiritual legacy of His Holiness Pope Francis, a humble servant of God, a peacemaker, and a global moral voice for humanity.

Being present in Rome to pay final respects is not only a deeply moving experience, but also a moment of reflection on the transformative life of a leader whose simplicity, sincerity, and boundless compassion offered hope in troubled times.

Pope Francis devoted his life to healing a fractured world. His outreach to the poor, the displaced, and the forgotten was unwavering. He taught that peace is not an abstract ideal, but a sacred practice rooted in forgiveness, solidarity, and mercy. As he beautifully stated:


“Peace is not made once and for all. It must be built up continually.”

He reminded us that building peace is a shared calling, one that crosses borders and faiths, uniting people in the service of love. His leadership through dialogue, particularly with other religious traditions, brought to life the divine vision of universal brotherhood and sisterhood. His historic signing of the Document on Human Fraternity and his message in Fratelli Tutti (“All Brothers”) pointed humanity to a higher calling, living not beside, but with one another.

In 2018, it was my humble honour to present the Peace Charter for Forgiveness and Reconciliation to His Holiness at the Vatican. In his warm embrace of the Charter’s message, we found a deep and natural alignment with Christ’s teachings, calling humanity to repent, forgive, reconcile, and be healed. One central message from the Charter stands as a beacon today:


“Forgiveness is an unwavering refusal to let painful experiences destroy us.”

In his own words, Pope Francis said:


“We are all called to become artisans of peace, by uniting and not dividing, by extinguishing hatred and not holding on to it, by opening paths of dialogue and not by constructing new walls.”

These are not just noble sentiments; they are sacred imperatives. The Earth cries out for peace. Humanity longs for healing. Pope Francis lived this truth with quiet courage and divine grace.

His passing invites all of us, people of every faith and none, to reflect on how precious, how fragile, and how interconnected human life is on this sacred planet. His journey reminds us that the true purpose of life lies in serving others, protecting the vulnerable, and building peace, step by humble step.

May the soul of His Holiness Pope Francis rest in eternal peace. May his teachings continue to guide all who seek justice, reconciliation, and unity.

Let this moment renew our shared resolve to walk gently, live gratefully, and serve selflessly. May we all become instruments of peace, bound by the eternal truth that love is greater than fear, and forgiveness stronger than division.

In remembrance and reverence.
From Rome,
Bhai Sahib Professor Mohinder Singh KSG, OBE
Guru Nanak Nishkam Sewak Jatha (GNNSJ)

Pope Francis in Rome, August 2022. Courtesy of Annett Klingner and pixabay.com
His Holiness Pope Francis blessing the Peace Charter scroll (St. Peter’s Square, Rome, Italy, 2-3 May 2018), Rome © L’Osservatore Romano

Notes for Editors:

Bhai Sahib Professor Mohinder Singh is the Chairman of Guru Nanak Nishkam Sewak Jatha (GNNSJ), a faith-based charitable organisation headquartered in Birmingham, UK, with global outreach across education, health, civic engagement and interfaith work.

In recognition of his tireless efforts to promote peace, reconciliation and interreligious harmony, Bhai Sahib Ji was awarded the Pontifical Order of Knighthood of St Gregory the Great (KSG) by His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI in 2012 – becoming the first Sikh in history to receive this honour. Bhai Sahib Ji received the Papal knighthood with humility, dedicating it to the Guru’s message of selfless service and unity among all humanity.

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In Loving Memory of a Humble Servant of God: Pope Francis

April 21, 2025 by

With profound sorrow, we reflect on the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis – a beacon of humility, compassion, and unity.

His papacy transformed the Catholic Church into a louder voice for the voiceless. He reached out to the marginalised, the poor, the displaced, and those left behind by society. His encyclical Laudato Si’ reminded the world of our moral duty to care for the Earth and each other. He led by example, living simply and speaking with honesty and courage.

Bhai Sahib Professor Mohinder Singh KSG, OBE, one of the world’s foremost interfaith and peace-building leaders, had the honour of meeting Pope Francis at the Vatican in 2018. During that historic meeting, Bhai Sahib presented the Peace Charter for Forgiveness and Reconciliation – a cause Pope Francis not only understood but championed throughout his life. Their mutual respect symbolised a rare and powerful unity: faiths standing side by side in service to humanity.

Pope Francis in Rome, August 2022. Courtesy of Annett Klingner and pixabay.com

Pope Francis worked tirelessly to build bridges – between faiths, nations, and communities – grounded in the universal values of love, compassion, tolerance, and forgiveness. His signing of the Document on Human Fraternity with Sheikh Ahmed el-Tayeb was a testament to this mission: that peace is not only possible, but essential.

Bhai Sahib Professor Mohinder Singh paid this tribute to the work and life of the Pope:

“Pope Francis was a light in the world – a rare and remarkable soul who lived the message of humility and service. His life reminds us that peace on Earth begins with love in the heart and unity among all peoples. Let us honour him by continuing to build bridges of understanding between all faiths and all humanity.”

Please see statement from Statement from Bhai Sahib Mohinder Singh from Rome at the funeral of His Holiness Pope Francis here.

We mourn this profound loss, and offer our deepest condolences to our Catholic sisters and brothers and to all of humanity. We have lost one of the most humble and faithful servants of the Divine – a leader who walked gently with God, and boldly with love.

May his soul rest in eternal peace. His legacy will continue to light the path of all who serve truth, justice, and humanity.

His Holiness Pope Francis blessing the Peace Charter scroll (St. Peter’s Square, Rome, Italy, 2-3 May 2018), © L’Osservatore Romano 

Notes for Editors:
Bhai Sahib Professor Mohinder Singh is the Chairman of Guru Nanak Nishkam Sewak Jatha (GNNSJ), a faith-based charitable organisation headquartered in Birmingham, UK, with global outreach across education, health, civic engagement and interfaith work.

In recognition of his tireless efforts to promote peace, reconciliation and interreligious harmony, Bhai Sahib Ji was awarded the Pontifical Order of Knighthood of St Gregory the Great (KSG) by His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI in 2012 – becoming the first Sikh in history to receive this honour. Bhai Sahib Ji received the Papal knighthood with humility, dedicating it to the Guru’s message of selfless service and unity among all humanity.

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Golden Jubilee Celebrating 50 Years of Selfless Service by Guru Nanak Nishkam Sewak Jatha welcomes Lord Lieutenant and distinguished guests

March 29, 2025 by
Guests gather on the Gurudwara roof for a group photo with the Dome Darbar in the background

The Golden Jubilee celebrations of Guru Nanak Nishkam Sewak Jatha (GNNSJ) were celebrated yesterday, 28th March, with a vibrant ceremony at the Gurudwara on Soho Road, Birmingham – marking 50 years of transformative, faith-inspired service to humanity, grounded in the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.

Bhai Sahib Professor Mohinder Singh OBE KSG welcoming the Lord Lieutenant

The day saw His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of the West Midlands, Derrick Anderson CBE, lead the formal proceedings as Guest of Honour, recognising GNNSJ’s far-reaching contributions to community life, education, health, heritage conservation, and interfaith collaboration across the UK and globally. His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant offered His Majesty King Charles’ apologies for not being able to attend the event due to his sudden health challenges.

Dignitaries meet congregation, volunteers and school children as they walk the red carpet.

Prior to the Lord-Lieutenant’s arrival many dignitaries including the High Sherriff of the West Midlands – Mr Douglas Wright MBE DL, faith and civic leaders, national and international invitees, and business and academic leaders arrived to cheers of joy from the children from the Nishkam Primary school on Soho Road who participated in the celebrations. His Grace, the Archbishop of Birmingham made a special effort to join the celebration, unfortunately the Bishop of Birmingham, Rt. Revd Dr Michael Volland was unable to attend so sent a special personal congratulatory message for the occasion to Bhai Sahib Ji via his Director of Interfaith, Dr Andrew Smith. Rabbi Yossi Jacobs, from the Orthodox Synagogue, travelled back especially to join the esteemed faith delegation from Manchester.  The Chair of the Birmingham Faith Leaders Group, Pat Whitney, was accompanied by fellow faith colleagues from the Muslim community, Mahmooda Qureshi and Dr Peter Rookes, Hindu representative, Jas Sharma and also Ruth Jacobs from the West Midlands Jewish Association.  The Rev Pastor Carver Anderson, no stranger to the Gurudwara, was pleased to be part of the historic day.

The day began with the dignitaries being presented to the Lord Lieutenant. The VIP group was then led by Bhai Sahib Ji to the Gurudwara Sahib, where the Lord-Lieutenant and guests paid homage to the Sikh Holy Scriptures, Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, the eternal Guru of the Sikhs and spiritual light of the Sikh faith since 1708. They then toured the Langar Hall, witnessing how over 25,000 hot, nutritious vegetarian meals are prepared and served each week by volunteers to people of all backgrounds – a living embodiment of dignity, equality, and service. The Lord Lieutenant and distinguished guests were also given a tour of the Dome Darbar (the beautiful mirror adorned place of worship) with the cityscape in the background.

High Sheriff Douglas Wright MBE DL greets the children gathered in the Gurudwara carpark
Bhai Sahib Ji and Archbishop Longley greet the children

In the kitchen many volunteers were lovingly cooking hot meals (Langar) for all visitors to the Gurudwara, the guests witnessed firsthand the love and passion that went into meal preparation.

The distinguished guests visited the Gumbad (Dome) Darbar and witnessed the 130,000 hand-cut mirrored piece mosaic on the inside of the dome that was lovingly done by an artisan Muslim master craftsman, Mohammad Jabbar, who unfortunately could not join the celebrations as he was with his ill daughter. The Dome Darbar, is an example of the first time traditional Sikh architecture had been used in a European Gurudwara. 

Accompanied by Bhai Sahib Professor Mohinder Singh OBE KSG, Chairman and Spiritual Leader of GNNSJ and by faith and civic leaders, the Lord-Lieutenant then toured the “Faith in Action: 50 Years of Nishkam Seva” exhibition at the Nishkam Centre, located adjacent to the Gurudwara. The exhibition showcases GNNSJ’s pioneering initiatives in education, healthcare, civic regeneration, heritage conservation, and international development in the UK, India, and Kenya.

L-R High Sheriff, Lord Lieutenant, Bhai Sahib Ji and faith leaders / guests in Gurudwara and paying homage

The Lord-Lieutenant, Mr Anderson was deeply moved and said:

“GNNSJ has long been a cornerstone of our region – its contributions to community life, social justice, interfaith collaboration, and heritage preservation are nothing short of extraordinary. From inner-city Birmingham to schools in rural Kenya, GNNSJ has shown how vision, faith, and humility can truly uplift humanity.

“The vision and mission of GNNSJ in selflessly serving humanity is closely aligned with His Majesty, The King’s personal commitment to serving every citizen of the United Kingdom and the wider global community. This Jubilee is not only a celebration of five decades of service – it is a call to continue serving with courage, compassion, and conviction.”

The Lord-Lieutenant also viewed Nishkam’s project stands, learning about the Start of Life Care Programme; values-led education for over 10,000 learners; cancer awareness campaigns; and holistic elderly care. He commended the impact in tackling inequality with dignity and compassion.

Bhai Sahib Professor Mohinder Singh OBE KSG, Chairman and Spiritual Leader of GNNSJ, expressed:

“We are deeply honoured and grateful to the Lord-Lieutenant for his gracious presence and support. On behalf of the entire Nishkam family, we send our heartfelt good wishes to His Majesty The King. We are keeping His Majesty in our prayers as he continues treatment, and we very much look forward to welcoming him to GNNSJ and Birmingham in the near future.

“For fifty years, we have endeavoured to walk in the footsteps of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, serving humanity as one family through Nishkam Seva – selfless service rooted in humility, love, and deep spirituality. GNNSJ’s brand is Nishkam – selflessness – and our motto is “Excelling with wisdom and humility.” These guiding principles shape every aspect of our work, from values-led education and healthcare to heritage conservation and civic regeneration.

“GNNSJ is an example of embedding deep spirituality into all forms of civic action – both locally and internationally – demonstrating that service to others is one of the highest forms of devotion. This Golden Jubilee is not just a milestone to celebrate but a sacred responsibility to renew our commitment to serve with even greater compassion and courage.”

The Golden Jubilee exhibition and celebrations are now open to the public and will continue until the end of April 2025. All are warmly invited to visit the Nishkam Centre (Exhibition Mon-Sat ending 30th April 2025) and Gurudwara on Soho Road to learn more about GNNSJ’s work and be inspired by the spirit of Faith in Action.

Guests touring the exhibition celebrating 50 years of faith in action
Bhai Sahib Ji show historical timelines to the Lord Lieutenant

END

About Guru Nanak Nishkam Sewak Jatha (GNNSJ) and the Nishkam Group of Charities

Founded in 1975 by Sant Baba Puran Singh Ji of Kericho, Kenya, GNNSJ is a Sikh charity rooted in the spiritual principles of Nishkam Seva (selfless service) and Par-Upkar (benevolence beyond the self). Over five decades, it has grown into an internationally respected movement serving all of humanity, regardless of background or belief.

Based in Handsworth, Birmingham, the Soho Road Gurudwara is both a spiritual sanctuary and a dynamic civic hub. GNNSJ’s initiatives span all life stages – from the Start of Life Care Programme for expectant mothers to Asra Hub, housing and companionship for the elderly. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Nishkam Healthcare Trust launched a volunteer-led vaccination centre, delivering over 48,000 vaccinations, reinvesting income into vital community mental health services.

GNNSJ also supports values-led education, apprenticeships, heritage conservation projects in the UK and India, interfaith peacebuilding, and global food justice through its Langar and Zero Hunger programmes in the UK, Malawi, and Kenya. Over 3.5 million meals have been served worldwide.

Inspired by the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, GNNSJ’s mission is to serve with humility, foster unity, and build a compassionate society grounded in universal spiritual values.

“There is no Hindu, there is no Muslim – we are all children of one God.” – Guru Nanak Dev Ji

Media Enquiries

Nishkam Civic Association
📍 Nishkam Centre, 6 Soho Road, Handsworth, Birmingham B21 9BH
📞 0121 515 4229 | 📱 07815 511676



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Birmingham Commemorates Holocaust Memorial Day

January 27, 2025 by

with Interfaith Ceremony at Council House

Today, January 27th 2025, Birmingham City Council hosted a solemn ceremony at the Council House to mark Holocaust Memorial Day (HMD), honoring the memory of the six million Jews and millions of others who perished during the Holocaust, as well as victims of subsequent genocides.

This year’s theme, ‘For a Better Future’, resonated throughout the ceremony, reminding attendees of the fragility of freedom and the continuous effort required to uphold human rights

Holocaust Memorial Day also honours those who survived and educates about the dangers of hatred and discrimination in today’s society. This year’s HMD marks the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi concentration camp complex, and the 30th anniversary of the genocide in Bosnia.

Lord Mayor welcomes guests to the HMD Memorial event

The event was graced by the presence of the Birmingham Faith Leaders Group representing the faith communities of the City, symbolising the city’s commitment to unity and remembrance. The Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Cllr Ken Wood, welcomed all to the grand Banqueting Suite and opened the ceremony, emphasising the importance of remembering the atrocities of the past to build a more inclusive future.

Dignitaries light candles of remembrance

Prior to the event commencing, the guests were invited to light a candle of remembrance and enjoyed a performance by violinist Simone Schehtman and Michael Rowe, evoking deep reflection among attendees.

Mindu Hornick MBE, a Holocaust survivor, shared her harrowing experiences, underscoring the resilience of the human spirit and the necessity of educating future generations. The HMD Steering Group members alongside the Lord Mayor and community representatives, then lit candles in memory of the victims, signifying hope and unit whilst sharing personal reflections. The candle lighting was concluded with a one minute silence, allowing participants to reflect on the lessons of the Holocaust and the shared responsibility to prevent such atrocities in the future.

Bishop of Birmingham leads a prayer, joined by the Birmingham Faith Leaders Group

Members from various faith communities and organisations, including the BFLG, the Feast, Anne Frank Trust and the Dialogue Society, recited poems, performed songs, shared prayers and reflections, fostering a spirit of collective remembrance and commitment to peace.  

The Bishop of Birmingham, The Right Reverend Dr  Michael Volland, gave a reflection and lead a collective prayer accompanied by some of the Birmingham Faith Leaders Group.

Prominent faith leaders from various communities attended the event, underscoring the city’s commitment to unity and remembrance. Rabbi Yossi Jacobs, from the Birmingham Faith Leaders Group, recited the Memorial Prayer before the Statement of Commitment was read out by all present. 

Reflecting on the event, Amrick Singh Ubhi, Director, Civic Engagement and Partnerships at the Nishkam Group of Organisations stated, “It is our collective responsibility to remember the atrocities of the past and educate future generations. By coming together across faiths and communities, we reaffirm our commitment to peace, understanding, and the prevention of such horrors from ever occurring again. We have a duty to call out and stand in unity wherever hatred, violence, and inhumane conduct occurs. As we remember victims of the past, let us not overlook or ignore those atrocities happening around the globe in our lifetimes.”

A group photo opportunity to capture the dignitaries, faith leaders and the youngsters who had contributed to the memorial event.

It was evident from the sentiments shared and from those present at the event, that the communites of Birmingham remain dedicated to promoting understanding and cohesion among diverse communities, ensuring that the horrors of the past are neither forgotten nor repeated.

ENDS

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Faith Leaders give thanks to Jonathan Gurling who steps down from Birmingham Faith Leaders Group after 18 Years of Service

January 13, 2025 by

After almost two decades of dedicated service, Jonathan Gurling has announced his decision to step down from his role as Executive Secretary with the Birmingham Faith Leaders Group (BFLG). An instrumental figure in the group’s evolution, Jonathan’s departure marks the end of an era for one of the UK’s most prominent interfaith organisations.

Some of the Faith Leaders Group at a lunch in honour of Jonathan

The Birmingham Faith Leaders Group was established in the wake of the tragic events of 9/11, as leaders across faiths in Birmingham recognised the urgent need to foster unity, dialogue, and understanding among diverse communities. The group has grown into a beacon of interfaith cooperation, championing peace, tolerance, and shared action in a city renowned for its diversity. Founded in 2001, the Birmingham Faith Leaders Group brings together leaders from various faith traditions to promote interfaith dialogue, address social challenges, and advocate for peace and unity. Through its initiatives, the group has become a model for interfaith cooperation.

Reflecting on his time with the BFLG, Jonathan stated: “It has been an immense privilege to serve alongside such dedicated and compassionate individuals. Together, we have worked to bridge divides, celebrate our shared humanity, and stand united in the face of challenges. While stepping back is bittersweet, I am confident that the group will continue to flourish and uphold its mission of fostering harmony in Birmingham.”

Bhai Sahib, Prof Mohinder Singh, Spiritual Leader and Chairman of Guru Nanak Nishkam Sewak Jatha and one of the founding members of the BFLG, who was unable to attend the event, later commented, “Jonathan’s work has been a shining example. The faith leaders are an important group that play a crucial role. They have stood in unity to serve humanity during extremely troubled times. Jonathan’s dedication, humility, and wisdom have been an inspiration to us all. While his presence will be missed, his legacy will continue to guide the work of the Birmingham Faith Leaders Group. We personally wish to record our gratitude for his service to the city and the Group”

Amrick Singh Ubhi, Director, Civic Engagement and Partnerships, Nishkam Group and past Chair of the BFLG, paid tribute to Jonathan’s contributions, “Jonathan’s unwavering commitment to fostering interfaith understanding has inspired the group and help strengthen Birmingham’s reputation as a city of inclusion. His ability to listen, empathise, and act decisively has been a cornerstone of BFLG’s success and continued existence. We owe him a debt of gratitude for his tireless efforts and wish him all the best in his future endeavours – which we are certain will include him attending the group’s community events and prayer services.”

As the BFLG moves forward, the new Chair, Pat Whitney and Vice Chair, Mohammed Afzal are passionate, like the group members, about the organisation remaining steadfast in its mission to promote peace and understanding across Birmingham’s richly diverse communities.

ENDS

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Archbishop Bernard Longley’s visits Gurudwara and Nishkam Campus

December 23, 2024 by

Archbishop Bernard Longley, Archbishop of Birmingham, undertook a deeply enriching visit to the Gurudwara and Nishkam Campus, an event that highlighted interfaith collaboration and shared values of community service, education, and spiritual reflection. The Archbishop’s itinerary included visits to important community institutions, each showcasing the ethos and commitment of the Nishkam Group of Organisations and then an opportunity for a discussion with Bhai Sahib, Prof Mohinder Singh OBE KSG and representatives of the Nishkam Campus.

Bhai Sahib Ji and Archbishop warmly greet each other

At the heart of the visit was the Gurudwara Sahib, a place of worship known for its serene atmosphere and emphasis on selfless service (‘sewa’). Archbishop Longley saw the congregation in prayer and appreciated the universal values of love, humility, and service that underpin Sikh teachings. The Langar (community kitchen), where over 25,000 vegetarian meals are prepared and served to all visitors on a weekly basis, regardless of background, was a poignant reminder of the Gurudwara’s commitment to equality, service and generosity.

The two leaders engaged in meaningful dialogue, focusing on the importance of interfaith understanding and cooperative efforts to address societal challenges. Bhai Sahib Ji shared insights into the Gurudwara’s extensive charitable initiatives and the role of faith in fostering unity, peace and compassion.

Bhai Sahib Ji discreetly explains the message from Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji during the visit to the Darbar Sahib

As founding, established and long serving members of the Birmingham Faith Leaders Group, the Archbishop and Bhai Sahib Ji were no strangers, and this was evident from the strong bond between the two. The Archbishop’s visit was on the day the Gurudwara Sahib commenced its bi-annual eleven-day prayer programme for world peace and the welfare of all humanity on the morning of 21st December 2024.

The visitors also witnessed the sangat (members of the congregation) praying together in the Dome Darbar. This was part of the monthly 24 hours of continuous Nitnem Prayers – the reciting of the Sikhs’ morning prayers.

The visitors pay obeisance to Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji in the Dome Darbar and witness the 24 Hour Nitnem Jaap

A trip to Marg Sat Santokh (MSS) the community cooperative created an opportunity to see ‘making work worship’. The specialist, artisan timber and joinery enterprise, epitomises how values are inculcated into manual work for the greater benefit.  

A visit to MSS, the Community Cooperative

Archbishop Longley met with Harpal Singh, Infrastructure Director, who shared the vision and Master Planning process that underpins the regeneration of the locality.  This then led to a tour of the new Nursery building being created in record time to relocate the existing provision to a new location. His Grace, witnessed firsthand the pioneering model of ‘kar sewa’ (collectively coming together to serve the Creator and the Creation on joint projects). It also highlighted an education framework that blends academic excellence with spiritual and moral development. This values-based education approach not only fosters academic growth but also emphasises character building and community responsibility. The discussion also highlighted the Nishkam community’s commitment to supporting educational initiatives beyond the UK, including their impactful work in Kenya to provide access to quality education, serving meals, providing infrastructure and furniture for underserved communities.

The Nishkam Centre’s Values Revolution Exhibition

A project in Kenya that will bring the two faith traditions closer together, was the work the Nishkam Group was undertaking in Kericho County with the Catholic Archdiocese and St Patrick’s Church. This was something the Archbishop was keen to learn more about and see how a collaborative approach could be pursued.  

The visit concluded at the Nishkam Centre, a hub for social innovation and community outreach. Archbishop Longley explored its programs, which range from interfaith dialogues to initiatives addressing social justice and environmental sustainability. The Centre’s holistic approach to community building resonated deeply with the Archbishop’s vision of faith-driven societal transformation. A visit to the Nishkam Centre would be incomplete without seeing the Values Revolution Exhibition and to visit the Community Jubilee Archway project. Bhai Sahib Ji, then presented the Archbishop and Pat with Peace Charter scrolls.

Bhai Sahib Ji present copies of the Peace Charter to the Archbishop and Pat Whitney

The Archbishop also reminded everyone of the vital role of ongoing Sikh-Catholic dialogue, which had deepened mutual understanding and cooperation between the two faith traditions, enriching the broader interfaith landscape. It was envisaged by all that in 2025 there would be more opportunities created for closer collaboration on shared objectives. 

Archbishop Longley, thanked Bhai Sahib Ji and commented the visit had been a testament to the power of faith communities working together for the common good. He was inspired by the Nishkam community’s unwavering commitment to service, education, and spiritual growth. He concluded that it was a joy to see such vibrant expressions of faith in action.

The concluding discussion over tea at the Nishkam Centre

After the visit, Bhai Sahib Ji, reflected, “The visit underscored the shared mission of different faith traditions to serve humanity and foster peace. It reaffirmed the importance of building bridges between communities to create a more harmonious and compassionate society. The emphasis on the importance of interfaith dialogue, the significance of the Birmingham Faith Leaders group and collaboration. We need to create more opportunities in fostering unity among diverse faith communities in the city, enabling collective action on issues such as social justice, peacebuilding, values development, education, poverty alleviation, and community cohesion.”

Please see more images from the visit below:

ENDS

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Bishop of Birmingham visits Gurudwara Sahib ahead of eleven-day prayer service for World Peace and the Wellbeing of All Humanit

December 20, 2024 by

On Thursday 19th December 2024, the Nishkam Team had the honour of welcoming Bishop Michael Volland for a momentous visit to the Gurudwara and the Nishkam Campus. The visit was long overdue and highlighted interfaith collaboration and mutual respect, fostering a shared commitment to peace and service in the city. The Gurudwara Sahib will be commencing its bi-annual eleven-day prayer programme for world peace and the welfare of all humanity on the 21st December 2024.

Bhai Sahib Ji and Bishop Michael outside the Gurudwara Sahib

Bishop Michael was warmly received by Bhai Sahib Mohinder Singh, Spiritual Leader and Chairman of Guru Nanak Nishkam Sewak Jatha and an esteemed global ambassador for interfaith dialogue. Their meeting was a profound exchange of ideas and aspirations, focusing on building bridges between communities and reinforcing the importance of spiritual values in contemporary society. It focused on how the two faith communities could collaborate with others in the city to build more cohesive, equitable, fairer and just places and spaces for all communities. 

Dr Gopinder Kaur accompanies the Bishop in to the main Darbar Sahib at the Gurudwara

During his visit, Bishop Michael toured the Nishkam Campus, starting with a visit to the Gurudwara Sahib and hearing about its history; the fact that 25,000 vegetarian meals a week were served as Langar; that the continuous prayers were ongoing for over 45 years; the fact that not a single person was paid a salary, and all service was provided by volunteers.

He then visited the Nishkam Healthcare Trust (NST) to see how a community group, rooted in the community, could provide essential, frontline services in a culturally appropriate and sensitive way, whilst curtailing pressures on the NHS. The NST team were proud to share that their service users were representative of the local demographics and not necessarily from the Punjabi or India diaspora as often perceived. The healthcare team also shared it was one of the early faith community vaccination centres during Covid and, probably the only one nationally that was entirely run by volunteers.  Due to pressures of time, the Bishop was made aware of the Nishkam Community Cooperative (Marg Sat Santokh), which was set up to provide employment opportunities and was a trailblazer when first established in the mid-80’s.   

A memorable opportunity for a picture on the roof
of the Gurudwara Sahib

The entourage then went to the Nishkam Primary School, where they were received by the Headteacher, Gurpreet Kaur. She explained the unique offer of a Sikh ethos, multifaith, values-based education that underpins the Nishkam Education Trust; this was clearly demonstrated, observed and commented upon by Bishop Michael during his visit.  

Bishop Michael stated, “The work being done here at the Nishkam Campus is truly inspiring and thank you for sharing it with us today. It is a testament to how faith communities can lead by example in creating a world of compassion, inclusion, and service to humanity.”

Gurpreet Kaur welcomes the Bishop to the Nishkam School and shares highlights of working with St Micheal’s School and Church

Bhai Sahib Mohinder Singh expressed his gratitude for the visit, saying, “Today’s meeting is a reflection of the unity that is possible when we focus on what binds us together as humans, rather than what divides us. It is through dialogue and collaboration that we can address the challenges of our time. We see each other at the Birmingham Faith Leaders Group and other City events, but never get a chance for deep conversation or discussion, today was a great opportunity to get to know each other.”

The visit concluded with a trip to the Nishkam Centre to see the Values Revolution exhibition and to visit the Community Jubilee Archway project. Bhai Sahib Ji, then presented the Bishop with a very special Peace Charter scroll that had been personally blessed by Pope Francis.   

Bhai Sahib Ji and Bishop Michael share a moments reflection looking out at the Gurudwara and Nishkam Campus

Amrick Singh, Director of Nishkam Civic Engagement and Partnerships said, “It was insightful to see both leaders emphasise the importance of continuing such dialogues to inspire collective action for a better future and strengthening already existing strong bonds. The fact that we are looking at innovative projects and tasks together, is uplifting and gives hope. One social housing project that was discussed has the potential to be the first of its kind in the country and has already attracted national interest. I’m glad Bhai Sahib Ji shared the concept of Kar Sewa (collectively coming together to serve the Creator and the Creation on joint projects) during the discussions”.

The Nishkam Centre and the Campus remains a beacon of hope and a hub for community transformation, upholding the values of selfless service, spiritual enrichment whilst tackling injustice, inequalities and empowering communities.

An opportunity to see the Values Revolution Exhibition and the Community Jubilee Archway

ENDS

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Faith Leaders join the Prime Minister for his first Interfaith Breakfast Event at No. 10

November 14, 2024 by

Faith leaders were invited to Number Ten Downing Street for a breakfast event during interfaith week, including a pledge from the Prime Minister that faith leaders would have a part to play in formulating policy across a wide-range of areas in the future. Keir Starmer said the government was one of service to all communities and praised the work of faith groups during the pandemic. He promised another similar event in six months time. For their part, the faith representatives emphasised the importance of interfaith work to maintain cohesion between communities.

Attendees included the Faith Minister Lord Khan, representatives from many religious traditions including Rabbi Charley Baginsky, Imam Asim Hafiz, Akeela Ahmed, Bhai Sahib Prof. Mohinder Singh, Ari Jesner from the Office of the Chief Rabbi, Bishop Mike Royal, The Bishop of London Sarah Mullaly and Archbishop Angaelos.

Speaking on the event Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “That concept of service is a value which drives me in terms of what we’re trying to achieve in government,”

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ECRL Annual Meeting 2024 Concludes with a Call for Unity in Addressing Societal Challenges

October 12, 2024 by

Bhai Sahib (Prof) Mohinder Singh OBE KSG, a founding member of the European Council of Religious Leaders (ECRL), attended the ECRLs Annual Meeting held from September 16 to 18, 2024, in Oslo, Norway. Bhai Sahib Ji has been an active participant of the ECRL for over 20 years.

This year’s gathering focused on ‘The Changing Face of Societies and Communities in Europe: Exploring the Religious Response to Challenges and Opportunities of Change,’ and bought together diverse faith leaders who helped address the evolving dynamics within European communities.

The meeting began with contributions from ECRL members, setting the tone for a rich dialogue on the societal transformations currently underway in Europe. Professor Sturla Stålsett’s presentation on public policy regarding religion and belief in Norway sparked significant discussion on commitment, plurality, and equal treatment among faith communities.

A highlight of the event was the evening program at the ICC Mosque, where attendees engaged in a guided tour and insightful presentations on the situation of Muslims in Norway. Imam Senaid Kobilica and Niels Fredrik Skarre shared valuable perspectives on building dialogue and coalition among diverse religious and life stance communities.

Throughout the meeting, participants focused on pressing topics, including strategies to combat extremism and enhance interfaith collaboration. Borg Bishop Kari Mangrud Alvsvåg’s presentation on joint efforts against extremism set a collaborative tone for the discussions that followed.

The plenary session resulted in a strong public statement, reflecting the collective commitment of faith leaders to address societal challenges through unity and cooperation. The election of a new ECRL President further underscored the Council’s dedication to fostering interfaith dialogue and response to the needs of contemporary European society.

Closed-door dialogues provided a platform for candid discussions on critical issues, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, demonstrating the importance of religious leaders in advocating for peace and understanding amidst adversity.

The ECRL Annual Meeting reaffirmed the shared responsibility to lead with compassion and cooperation whilst navigating the complexities of changing societies and offering meaningful responses to current and future challenges.

The Council looks forward to continuing its mission of promoting peace, dialogue, and collaboration among diverse faith communities across Europe.

Ends

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Joht Singh Chandan, aged 32 years, becomes the youngest medical professor in the UK

October 12, 2024 by

Professor Joht Singh Chandan – a Sikh faith practitioner, devoted Nishkam (selfless) volunteer and dedicated Birmingham resident – has made history by becoming the youngest medical professor in the UK at just 32 years of age.

Specialising in research on health inequalities and violence prevention, Professor Chandan was recently appointed as Clinical Professor of Public Health at the University of Birmingham.

Driven by a passion to support community wellbeing, he has secured over £19 million in funding and published influential work on the health impacts faced by women and children who are survivors of violence. His understanding of the needs of vulnerable people and commitment to public health is further shaped and strengthened by his ongoing role as a Special Detective Constable with Midlands Police.

Born in Birmingham, Joht Singh studied at King Edward’s Camp Hill School for Boys before going on to study medicine at the University of Birmingham. In addition to his academic and professional pursuits, he has been a longstanding member of Guru Nanak Nishkam Sewak Jatha (GNNSJ), regularly taking part in prayer services, kirtan (devotional singing) and sewa (selfless service and volunteering) since a young age.

Join us in prayer on Sunday 13th October, 1.30pm – 3pm at GNNSJ, to celebrate Professor Joht Singh Chandan’s incredible achievements and his unwavering commitment to improving health outcomes in the superdiverse city of Birmingham and beyond.

For further information please see link: https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/news/2024/birmingham-academic-becomes-youngest-uk-clinical-professor

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