DES MOINES, IOWA: As part of the process to spread the spiritual ideals and wisdom of the Sikh Gurus, the Sikh American Heritage Foundation of Des Moines, celebrated Vaisakhi with the Unitarian Fellowship of Ames, Iowa, with a membership of 160 strong.
Rey. Dr. Sydney A. Morris, the minister of the Unitarian Church, expounded the universal wisdom. of Guru Nanak by reading verses from Japji Sahib that there is only One Supreme Being, who is the Creator of all universe. Dr. Morris related the Sikh philosophy compiled in the holy Guru Granth Sahib as that very similar to Untarjan Church and explained the teachings of the Sikh Gurus and the Unitarians are universal.
Dr. Kirpal Singh of Creston Towa, was the main guest speaker who explained the basic believes and teachings of the Sikh Gurus. Dr. Singh quoted the examples of Sikh Marytrs and Guru Tegh Bahadur who were sacrificed for protecting the human rights and freedom of worship for the others. Dr. Singh also viewed the Sikhs as the Unitarians of East, as Unitarians and the Sikhs believe in Universal brotherhood of mankind.
Before the start of Vaisakhi celebration in the Unitarian church, chant of “Satnam and Waheguru” ( the Lord is True and He is the Wondrous Lord), was recited by the members of Unitarian Church and the Sikh community who attended in colorful turbans and in large numbers. Holy hymns (Shabads), were also sung in this chutch. After the services, more questions about the Sikh religion, culture and its heritage were answered on one to one basis.
Such gatherings between the Sikh community and the Americans are much needed on a regular basis to create a better awareness and understanding. As a result more Sikhs shall be proud to wear turbans to their jobs and shall carry on their rich culture and heritage to which the Americans are much interested to know more about.
Article extracted from this publication >> May 5, 1989
