Dr. Rajwant Singh, chairman of the Sikh Council on Religion and Education joined leaders from various faiths at the steps of the US Supreme Court on July 29 to hold a prayer vigil and present a united stance ahead of the upcoming elections in November.
On the occasion, Dr. Singh recited a hymn by Guru Nanak, the founder of the Sikh faith, to convey the message of unity and dignity of all humans. "O Divine Creator, the source of all existence, we come to you in this time of division and unrest. Grant us the wisdom to see beyond our differences and recognize the shared humanity in every soul," the hymn said.
He added, "Guide us in choosing leaders who are committed to healing the divisions within our nation. May they lead with integrity, wisdom, and compassion, prioritizing the common good over personal gain. Let them be voices of unity rather than division, builders of bridges rather than walls."
Singh along with others called on the nation to pray, participate, and proclaim a commitment to an agenda that is uplifting rather than one that is based on insults and division. They appealed to the American population to exercise their right to vote as well as keep in mind the rights of those who are less fortunate in American society.
Convened by Bishop William J. Barber, II, president and senior lecturer of Repairers of the Breach, the July 29 vigil launched a season of prayer that will continue with gatherings on the last Monday of the month until the presidential election in November.
Bishop Barber said, "Our prayers will focus on candidates seeking to serve as political leaders and the issues we should debate in a moral society. We seek discernment to choose leaders who transcend partisan divides to uphold the higher moral values of justice, truth, love, peace, and compassion for all. "
He added, "We come as faith leaders, staying true to the highest ideals of our faith traditions and urging the nation to adhere to its best moral and constitutional principles. We are not endorsing specific candidates but advocating for critical issues."
Indian American Congressman Ro Khanna also joined the faith leaders and reiterated the call for more civility as the nation is gearing up to choose the next leaders.
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