Interfaith Board Meets at Sikh Gurdwara

CIC Board Meeting at the Sikh Gurdwara Acton Road . (Photo by Harpreet Sandhu).

March 27, 2015: Members of the Center for Interfaith Cooperation (CIC) Board met at the Sikh Gurdwara (Acton Road Temple, Indianapolis) on March 26th as a part of CIC's commitment to learn about various faiths, create better understanding between faith communities, and to develop initiatives to serve central Indiana. The Board Members observed the traditions of the Sikh faith, listened to a sacred hymn: "Na ko beri nahain begana sugul sung hum ko bun aiyee - I have no enemy and no stranger; I get along with everyone" sung by Ragi Joginder Singh group in the Sanctuary, and enjoyed delicious Punjabi snacks and tea.

Such visits affirm the growing interest among faith communities to learn about the tradition and culture of different faiths. This is a very welcome change that acknowledges the presence of many faiths in the spiritual landscape of Indiana and the Nation.

Maninder Walia thanking the CIC Board after his election. (Sikh Gurdwara, Acton Road, Indianapolis). . Photos by KP Singh

Maninder Singh Walia, President of the Sikh Satsang, was formally elected to the Board of CIC during the meeting. Several members of the Sikh community including Baljit and Chirjeev Oberoi, Amandeep Sidhu, Giani Pritam Singh, Maninder Walia, Janice Singh, Harpreet Sandhu, and the Ragis assisted in welcoming and reception of the distinguished guests representing many faith traditions including: Jewish, Hindu, Muslim, Mormon, Christian, Jain, Buddhist, Baha'i, and Sikh.

CIC Board Members in the Gurdwara Sanctuary. KP Singh welcoming everyone and offering translation to the Sikh hymn sung by the Ragis. (Photo by Harpreet Sandhu)

Lindsey Mintz, CIC Board Chairperson and KP Singh with Giani Pritam Singh and Ragi Joginder Singh group. (Photo by Harpreet Sandhu).

KP Singh, a CIC Board Member and a long-time Indianapolis resident, served as coordinator for CIC's visit; provided an overview of Sikh faith, culture and community, assisted by other members of the Satsang. This was a historic and proud first for the CIC Board and the Sikh Satsang. This was a wonderful experience of sharing and fellowship.