Religious Society events 2025

At MGS, we recognise and celebrate not only different faith groups but also the richness of racial and cultural diversity within our community. Our Friday religious assemblies provide pupils with the opportunity to engage with their own faith or explore and learn about the beliefs of their peers in an inclusive environment. In recent weeks, several religious societies have hosted engaging events, reflecting the diverse spiritual life at MGS.

The Christian Union recently held a supper focusing on Fellowship, Faith, and Football, welcoming back Old Mancunian Martin Bateman (80–87) as guest speaker. The Islamic Society (ISOC) organised a dinner with guest speakers Soban Rehman, Imam of Makki Masjid, and Mohammed Ullah, chaplain at the University of Manchester. Meanwhile, the Jewish Society (JSoc) welcomed Rabbi Amir Ellituv to speak at one of their lunchtime sessions.

Current year 12 pupil James spoke about the Christian Union Supper: “Fellowship, faith and football were the themes of this year’s annual Christian Union Supper, as we welcomed back Old Mancunian Martin Bateman (80-87) as our guest speaker. Martin, who works for the international outreach charity Ambassadors Football, shared some fascinating insights from his varied experiences. Guests also enjoyed hearing from the High Master, as well as having the delight of hearing piano recitals from two of the schools acclaimed musicians, Riccardo and Issac. A recurring theme of the evening was the role of faith in giving hope to individuals and society, and inspiring young people to make a difference in the future. Martin is the National Director for the work of Ambassadors Football in Great Britain, and supports churches to serve their local communities through faith-based football projects. He is also a member of the European Leadership team and the Global Service Team of Ambassadors Football. In his address, Martin spoke about his formative years at MGS, and shared how, through his experiences of the all-to-familiar trials of trying to get a break in a school sports team, he learnt the importance of patience, perseverance and humility. He also recalled how his involvement with the Christian Union helped influence his later determination to share the Gospel.

“In a thoughtful address, the High Master reflected on challenges to faith, including a poignant account of the recent visit to the school of another Old Mancunian, holocaust survivor Martin Stern. He emphasised the need for good leaders and the role of education in inspiring the next generation to bring about a better future. Over the course of the evening, our musicians provided accomplished performances from composers including Chopin, Debussy, Bach and Mozart. As always, the catering staff did not fail to provide a delightful culinary experience – always an important part of the evening!”

Current year 13 pupil Tahmeed spoke about the ISOC dinner: “We were delighted to welcome over 200 parents, pupils, and staff to this year’s MGS Islamic Society Dinner. The evening began with a Qur’an recitation by Year 11 pupil Salman, followed by a welcome speech from outgoing President Hamzah, who reflected on ISOC’s growth and its role in strengthening pupils’ connection to Islam. Ibrahim, Head of Assemblies, highlighted the impact of Jumu’ah prayers, Islamic assemblies, and study circles, emphasizing the society’s success in fostering engagement. Outgoing Chairman of the ILM Committee Md Sadikin Mia spoke about ISOC’s charitable initiatives, its collaboration with the Myriad Foundation, and the establishment of the ILM Club, which encourages younger pupils to explore Islamic topics and develop public speaking skills.

"Our guest speakers delivered thought-provoking talks. Soban Rehman, Imam of Makki Masjid, spoke on the importance of respect between parents and children, drawing on Islamic teachings. Mohammed Ullah, chaplain at the University of Manchester, explored the universal question of “Why?”, reflecting on the story of Prophet Musa (Moses, peace be upon him) and the role of hardship in personal growth. Following a short address by the High Master, incoming ISOC President Adam shared his vision for the year ahead, focusing on unity and brotherhood. We look forward to seeing ISOC continue to flourish. Thank you to all who made this event so special”.