Deacon Al Henry visits Jain Temple in Levenshulme, Manchester

Deacon Al Henry visited Manchester Jain Temple on Sunday 8th December 2013 and joined the worshippers in their congregation. He is a minister of Northmoor Road & Levenshulme Methodist Churches, originally from the Caribbean island of St. Lucia, and has been in UK for the past 23 years.

On arrival the secretary Mr. Dushyant Mehta and the president Mr Piyush Mehta greeted him and gave him the tour of the temple, after that he joined the members for Bhatkti (congregation).

The bhakti  was concluded by Mr. Piyush Mehta by paying tribute to Mr Nelson Mandela and a minute silence was observed by all present.

Deacon Al was invited by the President to participate in Aarti and Divo, which is a ritual performed in front of the Jain Idols with lighted Divas (candles).

Deacon Al shared the pleasure of the company of all members by joining them in priti bhojan (dinner) where by he had an opportunity to talk to them.

He said that he felt a special vibe flowing in the temple and found the atmosphere very peaceful. The community spirit could be seen in all present, mentioning that he is also a community person and who is open to all faiths and denominations and is ready to work for community unity and development.

His visit has created both awareness and interest in the faith, all are looking forward to a lasting relationship.

Asha Mehta