In a time when division often dominates headlines, stories of unity and understanding can feel rare. That’s why my recent interview with Father Phil Sumner of St Patrick’s Church in Oldham offers a refreshing and important perspective on community, faith, and trust.
Father Phil’s journey as a priest has taken him through some of the most challenging moments in recent British history. Early in his ministry, he served in Moss Side during the 1981 riots—an event marked by tension and unrest. Yet, despite the difficulties of that period, Father Phil reflects positively on his experience there. He recalls having no issues within the community and describes a relationship built on mutual respect and understanding.
Years later, Father Phil was called to serve in Oldham following the Glodwick riots in 2001. His arrival date is one he remembers vividly—11th September 2001, the day of the terror attacks that shook the world. It was a time of uncertainty, both globally and locally.
Before arriving in Glodwick, Father Phil was warned about so-called “no-go areas” for white people. However, his lived experience tells a very different story. Throughout his time in Oldham, he has never encountered any problems walking through the streets of Glodwick. Instead, he has found openness, respect, and a willingness among people to engage and coexist.
A key part of Father Phil’s work today is his involvement in the Oldham Interfaith Forum. The forum brings together representatives from a range of faiths, including Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Judaism, and Buddhism. Its mission is simple but powerful: to foster understanding, build relationships, and strengthen the safety and cohesion of the local community.
Through initiatives with schools, women’s groups, and various community projects, the forum works to break down misconceptions and encourage dialogue between different religious and cultural groups. According to Father Phil, this kind of grassroots engagement is essential—not just for promoting tolerance, but for actively maintaining peace and unity in a diverse town like Oldham.
Father Phil Sumner’s experiences challenge common narratives about division and highlight something often overlooked: the strength of community when people choose connection over fear. His story is a reminder that trust is built not through assumptions, but through presence, conversation, and shared humanity.
In a world that can sometimes feel increasingly fragmented, voices like Father Phil’s show that understanding is not only possible—it’s already happening, one community at a time.
