The Stockport Inter-Faith Group wholeheartedly encourages all people of faith into the uptake of the COVID-19 vaccine where this is encouraged by public health authorities. As people of faith, we are committed to love, serve and care for one another, our gratitude goes to all health workers, the staff of the NHS, and to all the frontline workers, for their unfailing efforts during this pandemic. Now more than ever, it is crucial for us as faith communities to recognise and enjoy the fruits of scientific handiwork without being held back by outdated notions of religious belief and scientific thought. We're grateful to the scientists and researchers who worked hard in bringing out a vaccine, offering a ray of hope in overcoming this phase of the pandemic. Consenting to receiving the vaccine not only provides protection for oneself, but is also a contribution to the broader societal goal of achieving collective immunity to COVID-19. The vaccine rollout, like the pandemic itself, is a clear reminder of the oneness and interdependence of the whole human family. The wellbeing of an individual and the decisions they make are invariably bound up with those around them. As a result, taking up the vaccine is, at this time, an important act of solidarity with our fellow citizens. Unfortunately, we hear many who keep spreading rumours about vaccines, and we as faith communities in Stockport believe that vaccine misinformation is a threat to life, and a threat to people we care for. As we are aware that the vaccines approved by the UK authorities have undergone rigorous testing, and have been scientifically proven as helping reduce infections and the risk of deaths from this virus. We believe that taking the vaccine is the right thing to show our love for dear ones, and to our neighbours. Let's therefore collectively stand together and strive for the health and healing of the world today.