Goodwill in Surrey

Editorial

The Grand Taj banquet hall in Surrey was a veritable League of Nations Sunday night as religious and ethnic groups gathered over a celebratory meal organized by members of the Pakistani community.

The Pakistani community, under the auspices of the United Muslim Alliance, was thanking members of British Columbia's diverse communities for the support given during the aftermath of the catastrophic earthquake that devastated the Kashmir region of Pakistan, as well as parts of India and Afghanistan.

Among the recipients of the community's gratitude were Canadian Jewish Congress and the Jewish Federation of Greater Vancouver, who had been involved with relief efforts. The evening gala also featured awards to media, politicians and businesses that were part of mobilizing efforts to send help to the disaster-struck region. (The event was also to thank those who lent support to relief of the tsunami catastrophe in southeast Asia and the Hurricane Katrina disaster in the American south.)

To say the attitude Sunday night was ecumenical doesn't quite capture the goodwill. Hardly a faith group that exists in the province was unrepresented at the fête. Organizers invited leaders and laity from diverse Muslim sects, countless Christian denominations, Hindus, Buddhists, Sikhs, Hare Krishnas and others. But it was the gracious and seemingly heartfelt welcome extended to the small delegation representing the Jewish community that made it a very special occasion.

Whatever the details of international affairs and ancient enmities, here in British Columbia there appears to be a groundswell of hopeful camaraderie between Jews and Muslims, as well as others. A range of small, little-publicized initiatives have been taking place in recent months and years, bringing together representatives of diverse faith communities. Jews, Muslims, Christians and others have been meeting formally and informally for holiday celebrations and theological discussions.

At the Grand Taj Sunday night, there was a sense of community – of shared humanity – that was initiated by the devastation of the earthquake, but motivated by what seemed to be an open-hearted effort to understand and appreciate one another.

Could this happy faith-fest reflect a worldwide trend that recognizes the oneness of all religions' ethical teachings? Or is it maybe a phenomenon distinct to the unique multicultural milieu of this province and country? If it is the latter, may we export this message of hope and unity throughout the world. If it is the former, this would be truly revolutionary progress toward the perfection of the world.

^TOP