"WORLD IN OUR BACK YARD" - A COUNCIL FOR A PARLIAMENT OF THE
WORLD'S RELIGIONS' PROJECT

The Sikh Religious Society of Chicago, the Gurdwara in Palatine, was the host site on September 10, 2000, to an inter-faith gathering organized by the Council for a Parliament of the World's Religions (CPWR). More than fifty followers of other faiths came to visit the Gurdwara last Sunday to learn about the tenets of Sikhism. The visitors experienced the Sikh spirituality by joining the Sangat and listening to Gurbaani and Kirtan. They also sat on the floor with others to partake Langar and also relish Sikh hospitality. Surinder Kaur Singh received and guided the guests, Dr. Balwant Singh Hansra and Rajinder Singh Mago presented an overview of Sikhism and answered questions.

"Our community welcomes you all, we believe in One God, and have respect for all other religious paths. I commend the efforts of CPWR in their quest for a common ground amongst the religions of the world to promote harmony," remarked Kulwant Singh Hundal, the SRS president in his welcome address.

The interreligious exhibition comprised of eighteen free-standing colorful display panels set-up in the Langar Hall. The exhibits contained texts and pictures depicting the authentic teachings, tenets and beliefs of different religions. These same exhibits were displayed in Cape Town, South Africa in December 1999 when CPWR organized it's second parliament of the world's religions. The exhibits stayed in the Gurdwara for one week for all to view and learn from.

"World in Our Backyard" program provides an opportunity for interested persons or groups to visit ten different religious communities in Metro-politan Chicago area between September 2000 to June 2001. Gurdwara was the first site. The monthly visit schedule of host sites can be obtained from CPWR by calling 312-629-2990. There is no charge.

"The program promotes awareness of and appreciation for religious and spiritual diversity, cultivates a spirit of mutual respect for religious and spiritual identity, and fosters interreligious dialogue for the purpose of mutual understanding," said Rajinder Singh Mago, Vice-Chair of CPWR.

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