On 1st August the latest part of the Faith Walk at Gilwell Park was officially opened. The faith of Sikh Scouts is now represented by a Sanctuary, a pioneering initiative led by Sikh Scout Leaders to establish a dedicated space for reflection, learning, and interfaith harmony at UK Scout Headquarters. By enriching the Faith Trail, this initiative will foster a deeper understanding of Sikh values, including Seva (selfless service), equality, and community spirit.
The Sanctuary, planned by the 13th Southall (Sikh) Scout volunteers, is designed as a welcoming building with four open doors, offering a space for reflection and featuring appropriate quotes from Gurbani. It is topped by a 9-foot Gurdwaraq Sahib Gumbad (Gurdwara Dome), created in the Punjab by Rana Handicrafts.
The Sanctuary represents Sikhism in a globally recognized Scouting heritage site, educates thousands of visitors annually on Sikh contributions to society, strengthens interfaith dialogue within the scouting community and provides a peaceful space for reflection and learning as well as supporting all Sikh scouts in the UK.
