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Cincinnati Sikh Community participates in interfaith event
Attendees of various faiths were intentionally seated together at tables to promote learning, unity, and the breaking down of barriers over a meal.
Sikh community members with Rev. Melanie Slane. / Sameep Singh Gumtala
Members of the Sikh community from Guru Nanak Society of Greater Cincinnati and Dayton recently participated in an interfaith event titled, “Interfaith Conversation and Cuisine,” held at the Episcopal Church of the Redeemer in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Members of the Jewish Community Council, the Bahai faith-Cincinnati, the Islamic Center of Greater Cincinnati, the Hindu Temple of Greater Cincinnati, and the Islamic Center of Greater Cincinnati were among those who attended the event, which sought to promote dialogue and understanding among diverse faith communities.
Sameep Singh Gumatala speaks to the gathering. / Sameep Singh GumtalaSameep Singh Gumtala, a community activist, shared that the Sikh community members contributed to the event by providing insights into their faith and traditions. The Sikhs highlighted the core principles of their faith, such as equality, service, and the importance of community, offering attendees a glimpse into their rich heritage.
Gumtala noted that attendees of various faiths were intentionally seated together at tables to promote learning, unity, and the breaking down of barriers over a meal. He expressed his gratitude to the organizers and highlighted the importance of these types of events in fostering unity among communities.
Kiret Singh, Japneet Singh, Maanit Singh, and Meher Kaur, among other Sikh youth, were actively involved in interactions with individuals of other faiths during the event. Meher Kaur, a high school student in the 10th grade, shared that she was able to shed light on significant Sikh beliefs, such as the importance of Langar (community kitchen) and Sewa (selfless service), at her table. The conversation also included the history of Harmandir Sahib (The Golden Temple).
Meher Kaur sharing information on Sikhism at her table. / Sameep Singh Gumtala
The event was also attended by other members of the Sikh community, such as Dr. Charanjit Singh Gumtala, Avtar Singh Springfield, Harwinder Singh, and Raspreet Kaur. They visited the church, where Rev Melanie Slane shared insights about the church’s history, the process of selecting weekly sermons, and the tradition of singing together accompanied by organ.
Sikh members learning about Christianity at the church. / Sameep Singh GumtalaThe attendees were treated to a diverse array of dishes, such as Middle Eastern and Southeast Asian cuisine, in addition to the thought-provoking discussions. “The event showcased the unifying power of food, with community members from different faiths bringing traditional dishes to share. As the evening concluded, attendees expressed hope that the event would inspire further interfaith initiatives and deeper connections among Cincinnati’s diverse religious communities,” a release stated
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