1. Religious Events September 2009 Orthodox, Roman Catholic and Anglican Churches celebrate the birth of Mary, mother of Jesus. Tuesday 8 September Nativity of the Theotokos

2. Religious Events September 2009 The start of the New Year in Ethiopia is recognised because Rastafarians believe Ethiopia to be their spiritual homeland, and a place to which they want to return. Friday 11 September Rastafari Rastafari - Ethiopian New YearEthiopian New Year

3. Religious Events September 2009 Navaratri (nine nights) symbolises the triumph of good over evil and marks the start of autumn. Saturday 19 September Hindu Hindu - Navaratri (start)Navaratri (start) Jewish Jewish - Rosh Hashanah (1st day)Rosh Hashanah (1st day) Jewish New Year. A two-day festival during which work is not permitted.

4. Religious Events September 2009 Fast in memory of the assassination of Gedalliah Ben Achikam, the Governor of Israel during the days of Nebuchadnetzar, King of Babylonia. Monday 21 September Jewish – Fast of Gedalliah Muslim Muslim - Eid-Ul-FitrEid-Ul-Fitr The end of Ramadan. Muslims celebrate the end of fasting and thank Allah for his help with their month-long act of self-control.

5. Religious Events September 2009 This day is celebrated when day and night are of equal duration. Tuesday 22 September Pagan Pagan - Autumn EquinoxAutumn Equinox

6. Religious Events September 2009 Celebrates Lord Rama's victory over the evil demon Ravana. Monday 28 September Hindu – Dussera Jewish Jewish - Yom KippurYom Kippur Day of Atonement - the most solemn day of the Jewish year.

7. Religious Events September 2009 St Michael was regarded as the “Great Prince,” the guardian angel of the kingdom of Christ on Earth. Tuesday 29 September Christian Christian - St Michael’s DaySt Michael’s Day St Michael’s Mount, Cornwall