Disservice to family
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Updated: June 19, 2009 1:55 PM
Re.: ”Sikh funeral in Christian church denied,” The Abbotsford News, June 16
First of all, I wish to extend my sincere condolences to the Braich family on the loss of their dear family member.
An array of emotions went through me reading this article on the front page, portraying a local Christian church as “racist,” adding that this story was picked up by Radio India and other news outlets.
It depicts the whole Christian community as uncaring, heartless and mean, denying a funeral to a valued member of the community. How disrespectful to make these inflammatory statements about Christians and making it available to other news media.
The church is called “the house of God” – a place of worship and of prayer. How can a group of people with a desire to worship God in their church, be called “racist?” I am certain that we still have freedom of religion in Canada, where believers have their own respective places of worship, without the need to embarrass or intimidate other faith groups.
I suggest Mr. Gill did a disservice to the memory of Mr. Braich, his family and the Indian community by taking this regrettable position. As an active member in the community himself and being well-educated, Mr. Gill should have had a better understanding of Canadian/Christian beliefs and values.
Showing diplomacy, tolerance and understanding would have been more helpful in furthering mutual understanding and respect, instead of playing the “racist” card. I hope Mr. Gill will do the right thing and apologize to the Braich family, the Indian community in Abbotsford and to the Sevenoaks Alliance Church.
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