This type of religious intolerance in Guyana is dangerous

Nov 20, 2015 Letters

Dear Editor,
I consider it my paramount duty to share with the public a very disturbing and unfortunate incident which occurred within the Wesleyan Church located at Maria’s Pleasure, Wakenaam Island. To begin with, on the night of November 9, 2015, the Meerzorg Vishwa Jotir Mandir held a Diwali concert at the mandir’s location.
There were many participants belonging to the Hindu and Christian religion. Specifically there were a number of participants from the Presbyterian Church and one 14 year old child from the Wesleyan Church. The event was more a cultural one rather than a religious one.
When I saw the participants, I was flabbergasted to know that our community would have crossed the religious barrier which is a great contributor to segregation on our island. The 14 year old Wesleyan Church member danced a beautiful Indian song. She was fantastic and the crowd applauded her talent. In my eyes and that of many who attend, it was the beginning of religious cohesion. Something I have always dreamt of.
Editor, my dream was shattered like a broken window when I learnt that the talented young lady was suspended from active participation in her Wesleyan church activities for six weeks all because she danced at a Hindu Diwali cultural activity. I am hurt to the core.
In an attempt to get the Wesleyan Church to reverse their decision I had a one on one discourse with the pastor. I presented my case to her by telling her that I believe strongly that the church would have erred on the bases that whenever they have a fundraising exercise, Hindus support it by purchasing tickets. Also Hindus would attend crusades and thanksgiving ceremonies whenever invited. I also said to her that by banning that young child it would do her no good for it may destroy her for life.
The pastor listened to me attentively and then responded. Her response shocked me. The pastor told me that you cannot dine at the lord’s table and the enemy’s table at the same time. She added that her church is guided by a doctrine that does not permit members to participate in other religions’ activities. I could not have found words to respond. All I say was my God, and I left.
Editor, it is my humble view that the practice of that church is morally wrong and should not be allowed to function in a country where the Constitution of our dear land prohibits such actions. If it is true, then I beg that the doctrine be revised so as to permit religious harmony and love for all irrespective of religion. In addition to the above, what hurts me even more is the fact that these very Wesleyan Christians visited my home and that of many Hindus on countless occasions to discuss the HolyBbible and we always listen attentively.
Never had I ever consider them enemies. I would even give them financial contributions.
Editor, let me make it clear at this point that I will not stop supporting Christianity because of this grave insanity for I firmly believe that indeed I should love my neighbour just as I love myself. Moreover I know that no religion teaches wrong doings and that what a man sows that he shall reap or as Hindus say, you are judged according to your actions.
Newton’s third law of motion is no different for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. I therefore call on my Wesleyan Christian brothers and sisters to revisit there doctrine or by-laws and ensure that it does not contradict the holy words of God. More specifically do not use the word of God conveniently for if I am not good to be tolerated and accepted as a Hindu then my money and services must also be refused, revoked and repelled.
You cannot be coming to my home for donations and yet consider me an enemy. In close I beg all religious leaders to unite and let us build this beautiful nation of ours. Also I beg of no one to misrepresent my letter or position. It is not the suspension that bothers me but the reason that led to the suspension.
Ganesh Mahipaul

Latest News

This type of religious intolerance in Guyana is dangerous

Related

Similar Articles

The Glenn Lall Show|| February, 7th, 2025

Follow on Tik Tok @Glennlall

THE BLUNT OF THE DAY

Sports

SBM Offshore Guyana & VFMA launch Girls in Football Development...

Imlach and Nandu fifties pilot Harpy Eagles to...

A look at Government’s boldest investment in...

Barker wins big, Khalil and Simpson inch closer...

Trophy Stall on board Republic Cup three-day...

13-year old benefits from Project “Cricket Gear...

Features/Columnists

Forward to the past

OAS Secretary General Election and renewed OAS Consensus

Process, procedure, political people and public servants

Publisher’s Note

Weekend Cartoon

Bridge Watch

Demerara Harbour Bridge

> Berbice Bridge […]

This type of religious intolerance in Guyana is dangerous

Share this:

Related

Similar Articles

The Glenn Lall Show|| February, 7th, 2025

Follow on Tik Tok @Glennlall

THE BLUNT OF THE DAY

Sports

Features/Columnists

Publisher’s Note

Weekend Cartoon

Bridge Watch

Demerara Harbour Bridge

> Berbice Bridge […]