Applications welcome for Interfaith Learning Pilgrimage in Egypt
The Church of Ireland’s Inter Faith Working Group, in collaboration with CMS Ireland and Centre for Christian-Muslim Understanding in Cairo, is inviting applications from people of diverse faith backgrounds to join a learning pilgrimage in Egypt in the autumn of 2026.
This eight-day learning journey in Cairo will be facilitated by an experienced team from the Centre, which was co-founded by Bishop Mouneer Anis, formerly Archbishop of the Anglican Province of Alexandria, and is chaired by his successor, Archbishop Dr Samy Shehata, and strongly supported by Dr Ahmed Al-Tayyeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Al-Sharif.
The programme will include visits to sacred sites, meetings with faith leaders, being present in each other’s observances of faith, and exploring the compassion projects of the Anglican Diocese of Egypt, serving the diverse refugee community in Cairo.
Who can apply?
Anyone of any faith who is over 18 years of age and keen to share and use what they have learned in their own community in Ireland. We encourage applications from teachers, youth workers, community workers, and third level students with an interest in youth or community work, focusing on diversity and social integration.
When?
The expected dates are 24th October to 1st November 2026. Selected participants are required to participate in two to three sessions of induction training during the six months prior to departure. Most sessions will take place via Zoom, with one in-person gathering.
How much?
The programme fee is £1,800/€2,100. This includes flights, accommodation, breakfast and lunch, in-country transport, the ‘Journey of Learning’ conference costs, and preparation, logistics and support from CMS Ireland. A limited number of partial bursaries are available to individuals for whom the programme fee would be a barrier to participation.
What’s next?
To find out more, please contact Linda Abwa or Gillian Maganda at CMS Ireland on (028/048) 9077 5020 or info@cmsireland.org or the Revd Abigail Sines, from the Inter Faith Working Group, at a.sines@mac.com. Alternatively, applicants may apply directly online through CMSI at THIS LINK.
The Inter Faith Working Group is a sub-committee of the General Synod’s Commission for Christian Unity and Dialogue.