In a world where conflict all too often has its roots in religion, it is good to see faith leaders coming together to support each other, and stress the many things that they have in common.

The Chief Rabbi’s participation this week at the government-hosted Freedom of Religion or Belief conference underlined the crucial positive role that religious groups can take to shape and enhance the societies around them.

The event was a powerful statement of the need for belief that goes beyond the walls of a synagogue, mosque or church – a vision of religion as a force for good, creating a harmonious and unified society.

The conference was focused as much on real-world issues as on lofty philosophical principles. It was particularly welcome to see the Chief Rabbi and Secretary-General of the Saudi government-funded Muslim World League, Muhammad bin Abdul Karim Issa, side by side on the stage, and to hear Rabbi Mirvis and the leading Islamic scholar Sheikh Abdallah bin Bayyah hail the Abraham peace accords as a new era in interfaith co-operation.

At a time when religious practices such as shechitah and male circumcision are increasingly under threat in an increasingly secular society, the pressing need for faith groups to work together has never been clearer. Jews need the backing of other religious groups to defend our ancient traditions. The connections made at this conference may help to defend our right to define our own way of being Jewish.

As Prince Charles told the conference: “A society where difference is respected, where it is accepted that all need not think alike, will benefit from the talents of all of its members.”