QUEEN AND OTHER FAITHS

Modern Britain is a multi-cultural, multi-faith society, made up of Christians, Muslims, Hindus, Jews, Sikhs and people of other faiths. The Commonwealth is also made up of peoples with different religious beliefs.

The Queen's role as Head of State and Head of Commonwealth is to respect and recognise these various faiths, and to promote tolerance and understanding between people of different religions.

This is reflected in The Queen's Christmas and Commonwealth broadcast speeches, which have often addressed the theme of religious tolerance. In her Christmas Message in 2004, for example, The Queen remarked: "Everyone is our neighbour, no matter what race, creed or colour."

Members of different denominations faiths are represented at major Royal ceremonial occasions with a religious dimension - for example, weddings, funerals and services of thanksgiving.

The Queen has also hosted a number of events which bring representatives of all denominations and faiths together - for example, a reception at Buckingham Palace for leaders of different religions in 2002.

Although Supreme Governor of the Church of England, throughout her reign The Queen has recognised other denominations within the Christian faith, attending various ecumenical gatherings and services.

During the course of her visits throughout the UK and overseas, The Queen has visited the places of worship of many different faiths, meeting religious leaders and worshippers.

In 2002 The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh visited Highgate Hill Murugan Hindu Temple in North London. In the same year The Queen met worshippers at a community mosque in Scunthorpe.

In 2003 The Queen attended a reception to mark the 21st anniversary of the Commonwealth Jewish Council at St James's Palace, London.