It’s only been six months since members of the county’s faith groups met to sign Cornwall’s new Faith Covenant – and they already have many plans for the future.

The covenant – a joint commitment between Cornwall Council and Cornwall’s faith communities – highlights shared values, the desire to help bring communities together and promote a sense of pride in Cornwall’s diversity.

Since signing in November, faith groups have been working together on plans to increase faith literacy within Cornwall Council. They will be joining Cornwall Council’s staff’s Lunch and Learn sessions with the aim to create conversation and awareness of faith.

Other plans include mapping faith-based social action in the county, such as food banks, and creating a permanent space for people of different faiths to use for their worship.

A programme has been drawn up marking spiritual events throughout the year -the most recent being the Buddhist festival Wesak in May at the Penmount Peace Field, known as Dor Kemmyn which is Cornish for Common Ground.

Andrew Yates, Diocesan Inter Faith Adviser, signed the Covenant on behalf of Cornwall Faith Forum.

He said: “Cornwall Council is the first local authority in the South West, and the first wholly rural authority, to develop a Covenant and recognise Faith communities in Cornwall make a significant positive contribution to the lives of people in the county.

“The Faith Covenant Partnership group is committed to ensuring there are real, tangible outcomes delivered as a result of the Covenant.

“I am excited about the future and having more opportunities to build on our existing work.”

The covenant was signed on November 13, 2024, by representatives of the Baha’i, Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Islam, Jewish, Pagan faiths, and the Humanist community.  Councillor Linda Taylor, Leader of Cornwall Council, and Kate Kennally, Chief Executive on behalf of Cornwall Council also gave their signatures.

Andrew added: “I have always found that meeting with people of different faiths always enriches and deepens my own Christian faith.

“I would love more people to join Cornwall Faith Forum and anyone wanting to contribute, please contact me.”

Find out more about Cornwall Faith Forum and find a membership form here.

Watch the signing of the covenant and find out more here.