When Kurshida Mirza BEM stepped into the role of High
Sheriff of Buckinghamshire, she became the first Muslim woman to hold the position in the county’s history. Her shrieval year was guided by the Islamic values of peace, justice and love for humanity. Determined to reflect the diversity of Buckinghamshire and to give space to these values across religious traditions, Kurshida chose to be supported by a multi-faith chaplaincy drawn from her
Islamic faith and the Christian, Jewish, Bahá’í, Hindu, Sikh
and Buddhist faiths. The chaplains accompanied her
throughout the year, visiting prisons, courts, civic organisations, community events and one another’s places of worship.

This article gives a few highlights from the written reflections of each of the chaplains who served alongside High Sheriff Kurshida Mirza BEM during her term of office. For Imam Shehzad Hussain of HMP Woodhill and Central Jamia Mosque in Wolverton, serving as the Muslim Chaplain alongside the first Muslim High Sheriff carried a special weight. He noted that aside from the duties of her office; she carried the hopes and pride of many who, for the first time, saw someone who looked like them and shared their background, represented in civic leadership. He recalled the High Sheriff’s presence at the Grand Iftar at MK Dons Stadium, where her words captured the spirit of Ramadan – generosity, unity, and shared purpose.

Just as meaningful was her visit to the prison community, where she thanked volunteers and participants in restorative justice programmes. In doing so, she acknowledged people often forgotten, and affirmed their journeys of reflection, healing and transformation. ‘This year has shown us that representation matters, that leadership rooted in values can create real change, and that when faith walks hand-in hand with public service, it lights the way forward.’

Reverend George Mwaura, URC Minister at Church of Christ the Cornerstone, observed that each faith tradition holds pieces of the same human story – the story of seeking meaning, finding belonging, and
serving others. He also noted the ease in which the chaplains worked together. ‘There were no grand theological debates, no attempts to convert one another. Instead, we found common ground in the simple acts of service – sharing a cup of tea or lunch at Camphill. I’ve learnt that interfaith work isn’t about diluting our beliefs or finding the lowest common denominator. It’s about recognising that our different traditions can be like instruments in an orchestra – each with its unique voice, but capable of
creating something beautiful together.’
Suresh Nesaratnam of the Milton Keynes Murugan Temple reflected on the knowledge he gained about different religions (for example, that The Peace
Pagoda enshrines sacred relics of Lord Buddha) and the relationships he formed throughout the programme. This is an essential part of chaplaincy, the ability to know who to contact about the issues that face us as communities. He was reminded of his early years in Kuala Lumpur, and his experience of how people of different religions moved through life in
harmony. The diversity within the chaplaincy stirred that same sense of belonging. ‘It was like family, being in the Chaplaincy Team of our High Sheriff.’

Frances Gordon of Milton Keynes & District Reform Synagogue spoke of the importance of listening. Her year was shaped by hearing the stories and struggles of others, including a visit to the prison system where she witnessed the quiet, determined work being done to support people at their most vulnerable. Learning that some are released into homelessness left a lasting impact. Frances also reflected on the visits to places of worship, where space was given to hear different views and practices. In these moments of deep listening, she came to understand more fully the challenges and resilience that sustain this city and all of Buckinghamshire. ‘In times of challenge, the act of listening is healing and restorative.’
Through this programme, Frances has forged lasting friendships and relationships that she is committed to nurturing and building upon in the years to come. Tarsem Singh Ubhi of Ramgarhia Sabha Sikh Temple, Kiln Farm Gurdwara and Milton Keynes Sikhs, saw the year as a tapestry of insights. From visiting Thames Valley Police and witnessing the courage and
professionalism of its officers, to joining in community events at the Gurdwara where Langar – a traditional vegetarian meal – was shared with guests of many faiths, every encounter demonstrated how faith communities and civic structures work together to serve society. He highlighted some visits to the other chaplain’s places of workshop, for example, the mosque in Wolverton offered a profound learning
experience, showcasing its role in religious observance and its provision of Urdu language and religious education to hundreds of young children. A visit to the Synagogue allowed everyone to view a historic Torah and learn about the origins of the synagogue building, including its funding and construction. ‘ For peace and justice to flourish in our multi-ethnic and multicultural society, it is essential that individuals respect one another as equals. This can only be achieved through opportunities for interaction and
mutual learning.’ Roya Azordegan of the Bahá’í Faith shared a reflection: ‘It’s not that what I do will change the world—but if I don’t do what I can, change for the better will never come.’ To her, this captured what Kurshida has accomplished. By establishing a multi-faith chaplaincy, she may not have changed the world, but she made it more inclusive and more tolerant. Roya wrote about the difference between religion and tradition. While traditions may divide, the core of religion – its message of love, unity, and spiritual nobility- connects us. She called for a renewed commitment to seeing religion as something we share, a truth that can help us work together for the common good.

Glen O’Halloran of the Milton Keynes Peace Pagoda, representing the Buddhist faith, contributed a quiet, thoughtful presence that grounded the group’s journey in mindfulness and peace. As well as attending many events, he hosted a morning at the Peace Pagoda, where guests were educated about the Pagoda, about Buddhism, and took part in a meditation. His involvement throughout the year added a reflective depth to the chaplaincy’s shared work.

As the year drew to a close, Rev George Mwaura offered words that captured the spirit of the entire journey. ‘Milton Keynes was born from a vision of what could be — a place where modern innovation meets community spirit, where concrete and gardens dance together in harmony. Today, we gathered here not just as residents of a city, but as keepers of a dream that continues to unfold. In these challenging times, let us remember that Milton Keynes has always been a place of welcome, of new beginnings, of diverse communities coming together to write their shared story.’

The chaplains offer heartfelt thanks to High Sheriff Kurshida Mirza for inviting us to walk alongside her during this remarkable year. She gave us all the opportunity to deepen our own callings, to meet across difference, and to serve together. It has been a privilege, an honour, and a joy.

Kurshida wrote: “I never in a million years imagined to be the High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire arriving as a little Indian girl to the UK.” And yet, she not only became High Sheriff; she reimagined what that role could be.

May her year not be seen as a culmination, but as a beginning, a blueprint for what civic life rooted in shared faith, deep listening, and radical hospitality can look like. May the bridges built this year hold strong, and may many more cross them in peace.

Frances Gordon, Jewish Chaplain to Kurshida Mirza, High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire 2024-25