Eid Ul Adha - or 'the great Eid' - marks the end of Hajj, the annual Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca. Every Muslim who can afford to do so is expected to make this journey at least once, and for many people, it is a central and defining moment in their lives. This year, my ministerial colleague Shahid Malik will be joining around two million other Muslims from around the world to make that pilgrimage. The solemn ritual, conducted on such a large scale, symbolises the solidarity with other members of the community, a reminder of the values and traditions which they all share.

Last week, those values and traditions were brought to the fore as part of the overall celebrations of England's first ever inter faith week. Faith groups throughout the country reached out to others from different - or no - faith in order to build a deeper understanding and lasting ties. Many also took part in events to recognise Islam Awareness Week. This years' theme was 'walk the talk' - encouraging to people to develop stronger relationships with others in their community. 

I would like to wish everyone a very happy Eid - particularly those who are participating in the Hajj this year. Eid Mubarek.

See the video here.