RELIGION

For centuries, religious communities offered not just faith, but fellowship — a rhythm of ritual, shared values, and the comfort of belonging. Today, many of us live outside those walls, finding meaning in other ways, yet still yearning for the community and continuity they once provided.

In this supper, we’ll be joined at the table by Helen Harknett (Vicar of St Philip and St Mark’s, Avondale Square), Suryagupta Dharmacharini (Chair of the London Buddhist Centre), and Judith Moran (Director of Quaker Social Action; Chair of Santander Foundation) to explore: Can you belong to a religious community even if you don't share in their faith?

The Revd Helen Harknett is the Vicar of St Philip and St Mark’s, Avondale Square, having joined as Priest-in-Charge in November 2020. Originally from Wales, Helen trained for ministry at Westcott House, Cambridge.

Suryagupta is the Chair of the London Buddhist Centre. Suryagupta’s background encompasses leadership development, the arts, law, and supporting grassroots organisations. She has a love of meditation and is dedicated to widely sharing the teachings of the Buddha as a vehicle to transform self and the world. She has written and presented for BBC Radio 4 Something Understood and regularly contributed to BBC Radio 2 Pause for Thought. Most recently, Suryagupta was a guest on BBC's Sunday Morning Live speaking on the benefits of meditation.

Judith Moran is the Director of Quaker Social Action (QSA), where she has worked for the last 25 years, as well as the Chair of Santander Foundation. In 2017, Judith was awarded the Outstanding Individual Achievement at the national Charity Times awards for her services to social justice work. Despite being a committed and vocal advocate for QSA, what many people don't realise is that Judith herself doesn't identify as a Quaker.

Supper will be lovingly cooked by Nicoletta Loiacono. Nicoletta (or Nicky, as she is known) is an Italian-born chef, trained at prestigious culinary schools in Italy before moving to London in 2016. Having worked everywhere from 5-star hotels to Michelin-starred restaurants and artisan bakeries, she is now the proud owner of a new neighbourhood restaurant called Simplicity. (You might recognise Nicky from Bake Off: The Professionals!).

Menu to be announced soon!