Chavara International Center for Indian and Interreligious Studies (CICIIS) Sacramento organized a unique event on December 18, 2010, 6:30PM-9:00PM at St. Mary’s Parish, M Street Sacramento. Pastor and Director James Narithookil invited representatives of major religions to speak on the occasion of Interreligious Christmas Celebration 2010. The programme commenced with carol singing by the students of St, Mary's School, Sacramento.
Dr. Metwalli Amer, Founder of SALAM Islamic Center delivered his message on Quran. He highlighted that names of Virgin Mary and Prophet Jesus have been mentioned 34 times in Quran. There are chapters on the occasion of Jesus’s birth, the account after birth, and the references to Jesus’s miracles." He explained the meaning of "Azan" Dr. Amer chanted the incantation soulfully that Muslims use for prayers five times a day.
Paradhyeya, the Director of 'International Society for Krishna Consciousness" (ISKCON), Sacramento spoke on their mission of honoring God through singing, dancing and chanting His Name all the time. The practice, according to the mission’s head, brings inner joy that is necessary to bond with God. He gave Christmas message based on Vedas and Bhagvat Gita and chanted hymns in Sanskrit. His team sang Bhajan of Hare Krishna Hare Rama that was enjoyed by all.
Dr. Amrik Singh spoke on the origin of Sikh religion, Sikh symbols, Guru Granth Sahib’s universal message and Guru’s sacrifices for standing by their teaching. Father James told that many in the audience were listening about Sikhism for the first time. He thanked Dr. Singh for quoting frequently from Guru Granth Sahib and briefly narrating the contributions of Sikhs in the history of mankind.
Fr. Patrick Lee gave the Christmas message from the point of view of Christianity and Christ. He emphasized the salvific mission of Christ's incarnation. Christ by his suffering and death has saved the humanity from sin. Fr. Patrick was born in Ireland. After his priestly studies he was ordained a catholic priest and immigrated to Sacramento diocese 42 years ago.
Fr. James, the Director thanked all the speakers, singers, the enthusiastic audience and the caterers who served delicious Indian delicacies. In his concluding remark Fr. James said that Jesus was not born exclusively for Christians but for the whole humanity. Hence his teachings hold good for all irrespective of religion. He also emphasized the need for more frequent meetings and gatherings of various religions for peaceful, harmonious coexistence. He appealed for a united effort to work for World peace, Social justice, moral values and religious harmony.
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