First Minister John Swinney shares a message of support for this year’s Scottish Interfaith Week.
“My very best wishes to you all during this year’s Scottish Interfaith Week. This is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the different faiths, beliefs, and backgrounds that make Scotland the amazing place that Scotland is. It’s a chance to celebrate all that connects us and all that makes us unique, and to come together in a spirit of dialogue, understanding, and mutual respect.
“This year’s theme, well-being, encourages us to reflect on how we care for ourselves, how we support one another and strengthen the communities in which we live. It is a timely reminder that our well-being is more than physical or mental health. It is also our social and spiritual well-being and the connections we make with others. At a time when modern life can feel isolating and communities can feel divided, these connections are more important than ever. When we listen to one another, when we share experiences, when we find common ground, we feel less lonely and less divided.
“I want to thank Interfaith Scotland and everyone organizing events this week. Invite you all to take part whether through having a conversation, learning, volunteering, or simply meeting people from different backgrounds. This is a wonderful time to be part of a close and caring community. So no matter how you choose to celebrate, on behalf of the Scottish Government and the people of Scotland, I wish you all a very pleasant Scottish Interfaith Week.”
Scottish Interfaith Week is a community-led festival held across Scotland every November to celebrate the nation’s religious and cultural diversity.
This year the festival takes place from Sunday 8th November to Sunday 15th November, 2026.
Find an event near you: Events programme for 2026
