Ramadan and Lent Reflection
Day 1: Perseverance
Living in the Holy Land, we experience faith not only in our prayers but in our daily struggles. Each morning, I see the resilience of neighbours—Muslims and Christians—holding fast to hope despite checkpoints, economic hardship, and uncertainty. Our lives are intertwined with the land’s history, sacred and contested, where every stone tells a story of perseverance. In fasting, prayer, and reflection, we remember that faith calls us to justice, compassion, and solidarity. Through small acts of kindness—sharing food, offering help, listening—we embody the enduring spirit of this land, grounded in both Quranic guidance and Gospel teachings.
Lara Mitri
- Bethlehem
Matthew 4:4
“One does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’
Surah Al-Baqarah 2:155
“And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth, lives, and fruits, but give glad tidings to the patient.”
FODIP
FODIP projects have involved over 800 people, many of them under 24 years of age.
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FODIP has developed specialised methods and approaches for dialogue and understanding perspectives other than one’s own.
Since 2008, FODIP has been privileged to work with many organisations and faith institutions across the UK.
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We can provide help and expert advice, including at national level and have provided one-off workshops, events and training.
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Contact us on admin@fodip.org.uk for more information.
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Our methodology enables constructive dialogue to help those of all ages to enage with difficult interfaith issues in a safe space.
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Not all encounters are easy and some things are difficult to hear. The conflict impacts on our emotions and sense of identity.
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Our methodology is designed to highlight the influences and experiences of each participant, and to use the skills of dialogue and focused learning to understand what it means for ‘the other’. Inspiring and developing the leaders of tomorrow through our youth programmes is a priority.
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We use a range of activities and tools to assist in this.
Donate
FODIP relies entirely on donations and grants from private charitable trusts. Every donation helps us to maintain and develop this important work. Gift Aid - if you are a UK taxpayer, signing a
Gift Aid declaration would enable us to claim back the taxable amount from the government, thus increasing your gift at no cost to yourself.
To donate, please use the form below or contact: admin@fodip.org.uk for details.
Testimonials
"Interacting with different people of different faiths and cultures has removed assumptions and barriers that I previously had. It has also showed me to appreciate the fact that there is more than one side to the conflict and the need to be empathetic and understanding as well as having an open mind.Most importantly it is a safe place for people of all and non faiths to come together as friends and respect each other for their views. It has had a really positive impact on my own views and gives me great hope for the future that our communities can have great relationships and friendship."
Yossi
“The sessions that I have participated in with FODIP have inspired me greatly and allowed me to gain an understanding of how important discussions are and asking questions to those who have first-hand experience and knowledge of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.”
(Youth participant)
"As a young teenager I didn't spend much time thinking about the Israel-Palestine situation. Like many people, I had a simplistic understanding of the conflict where I presumed Israel was right, Palestine was wrong, and all Muslims supported terrorism. However, my participation in FODIP provided me with a unique opportunity to engage in conversations with Muslim (Christian) youth and gain a more nuanced understanding of the conflict. Through these discussions, I was exposed to perspectives and experiences that challenged my preconceived notions and helped me to see the issue from more than one perspective.
As a result of these conversations, I now find myself holding both pro-Israel and pro- Palestine positions, recognizing the complexities of the conflict and the need for a peaceful resolution that considers the rights and needs of both peoples. I'm grateful to FODIP for providing me with the opportunity to learn, grow, and engage in respectful dialogue with others who may hold different views than my own."
Elozor
“To be honest, we were in two minds as to whether to hold this [FODIP event] at all. However, from the feedback we have received to date it is clear that many of the participants learned a lot from it, particularly as many of the comments made were not the ones that people were necessarily expecting.” (Community leader)
Latest news
FODIP Programme Director Honored with Global Ambassador Award
We are delighted to announce that Sadia Akram, our Programme Director, was honored with the Global Ambassador Award at the University of Salford's Alumni Achievement Awards. This prestigious recognition acknowledges her exemplary and impactful work in civic engagement, interfaith dialogue, and community cohesion.
The award underscores Sadia's exceptional leadership, unwavering commitment, and significant contributions to local communities throughout the UK. FODIP proudly celebrates this achievement and expresses profound gratitude for her invaluable dedication.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Contact us at any time for more information.