February 17, 2010

Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams on Feb. 16 received the Woolf Institute of Abrahamic Faiths "Building Bridges Award" in recognition of his "commitment to addressing contemporary cultural and interfaith issues," a Lambeth Palace news release said.

The award was presented at the Woolf Institute's fundraising dinner at London's Middle Temple, hosted by Lord Harry Woolf, former Lord Chief Justice, and patron and sponsor of the Woolf Institute.

"The work of the Woolf Institute is a particularly important example of the sort of cooperation urgently needed for the sake of understanding and reconciliation in our world, and its innovative and courageous initiatives deserve the widest support," Williams said. "I am delighted and very much honored to receive this award and do so on behalf of all those who have made possible the various interfaith encounters of recent years in which I have shared – especially my dedicated staff and colleagues. I wish the institute every blessing and success in its work."

Dr. Edward Kessler, executive director of the Woolf Institute said: "The values of shared citizenship, tolerance and respect between those of all faiths are a long way from being met in our society. The urgency of our work increases. But in figures like the archbishop, we have hope. Since becoming archbishop, Dr. Williams has shown a real commitment to addressing contemporary cultural and interfaith issues including his ‘Presence and Engagement' program which helps parishes and dioceses to engage with other faith communities, and the ‘Building Bridges' seminars, that bring together Christian and Muslim scholars from across the world. It is a privilege to be able to honor and thank him in this way."

The Woolf Institute is dedicated to teaching, research and dialogue in the encounter between Jews, Christians and Muslims.

Episcopal News Service