My World Religion Weekend: A Reflection on Encounter World Religions

Mission Initiative:
Pursue Peace on Earth

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By ​Kevin Hnatiw
​Calgary, AB, Canada

After having attended the March 4-5 World Religions weekend I came away from the two days with a profoundly new perspective and understanding of four of the world’s major religions.

Growing up Christian, I had preconceived notions as to what other non-Christian faiths’ beliefs, practices were, or more importantly, were not. After taking in two days of religious exploration, topped off with a visit to each religion’s house of worship, I came away with a new, enlightened understanding of each religion, the fundamental principles/philosophies each hold at the center of their beliefs.

Additionally, I was surprised at learning some rather revolutionary beliefs the various religions hold. For example:
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• Islam is waiting for the Christian Jesus to return to Earth, and Muslim women are not forced by Islamic teachings to wear hijabs, burkas, etc. Also, I found it informative to learn that one of Mohammed’s wives divorced him. 
• In the Sikh religion, gay and trans-gendered people are not judged unworthy, but are accepted into their great religion openly and freely. Also, I was amazed to learn that Sikh women can chose between a head covering or an actual turban, which I had always assumed was reserved for Sikh men.
• The Hindu religion is one of the world’s oldest religions, and that they have multiple gods (the choice of which one to worship is left up to the person). Or, like the Buddhists, a person doesn’t necessarily have an immortal soul, but more like an cyclical existence- repeating lives with the goal of achieving final peace by returning to a perfect existence.

The result of having taken in the two days has been rewarding and enriching, which I much enjoyed.

Prior to the weekend, I had always wondered what a Sikh man in a turban believed in... now I know.

Prior to the weekend, I had never set foot inside a Mosque, much less heard Islam’s message as gentle and compassionate towards all people, including non-Muslims and women... now I know.

Prior to the weekend, I had always wondered why the Hindu faith used such colours and gave offerings... now I know.

Finally, prior to the weekend, I had always heard of the Buddhist faith, but never knew where the religion started or that there are 10 Buddhas, not just the one as I had always thought... now I know. ​