Religious Symbolism

Immediate audience participation and instant rapport flowed freely at Rabbi Dr Andrew Goldstein's talk to the Hillingdon Branch of The Council of Christians and Jews held at the Northwood & Pinner Liberal Synagogue in May 2001.

Before commencing his fascinating slide presentation Rabbi Goldstein challenged the multi faith audience of some 45 people to illustrate (paper and pencil supplied) the symbols each considered represented the Christian, Jewish and Moslem faiths. To test the influence of the commercial world we live in, illustrations of sports wear logos were also invited.

This thought provoking exercise confirmed that while many knew of the symbols representing their own faith most were unaware of the symbols representing other faiths. Interestingly a fairly good knowledge of sports wear logos emerged evenly across all the faiths.

The success of the meeting was further measured by the discussions which ensued when the light refreshments were served.

- Sidney Moss