Palatine library program explores holy books at interfaith discussion

Palatine Library program at Sikh Gurdwara, Palatine

Submitted by Palatine Public Library

Palatine Library invites the community to an enlightening program about different religions and their holy books.

This off-site event is hosted by the Sikh Gurdwara, 1280 Winnetka St., in Palatine, on Wednesday, May 24, starting at 4 p.m. This event is one of many offerings in Palatine Library's spring cultural highlight: "Exploring South Asia: India and Beyond," celebrating the beauty and traditions of these cultures and how they enrich our country.

"As part of our ongoing commitment to welcoming everyone, we are excited to partner with local organizations and congregations to create an opportunity to explore the diversity of our community," said Melissa Gardner, assistant director. "Books inspire us every day, and we hope visitors' curiosity is sparked as they learn about these religious texts."

Father Corey Brost, C.S.V., co-founder of The Children of Abraham Coalition, moderates this interfaith discussion. The Children of Abraham Coalition is a suburban Chicago nonprofit that trains Muslim, Christian, and Jewish adult and teen leaders in interfaith skills.

Speakers from six different faiths, Jewish, Christian, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist and Sikh, discuss their own holy book with a question-and-answer session afterward. In presentation order:

• Rabbi Steve Hart, Temple Chai in Long Grove (Torah)

• Pastor Joel Lohafer, Christ Lutheran in Palatine (Bible)

• Dr. Sabeel Ahmed, Islamic Society of Northwest Suburbs in Rolling Meadows (Quran)

• Chirag Barot, BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Chicago (The Bhagavad Gita)

• Iris Wang, Dharma Drum Mountain Buddhist Association in Mount Prospect (Buddhist Tripitaka)

• Dr. Balwant Singh Hansra, Sikh Religious Society in Palatine (Guru Granth Sahib)

Following, is a tour of the Gurdwara and a vegetarian meal provided by the Sikh Religious Society. Guests are also welcome to stay for the religious service afterward from 6:30-8:30 p.m.

The Sikh Gurdwara is managed by the Sikh Religious Society, Palatine, and focuses on Sikh religious services, Punjabi language/Kirtan classes, and the charitable and nonprofit endeavors of society. Sikhism, a monotheistic religion, follows the teaching of ten Gurus (Teachers). Visitors are always welcome. Guidelines: consumption or possession of alcohol and tobacco is not permitted; men and women need a head covering (supplied); removal of shoes in prayer hall and dining area; casual clothes for sitting on the floor.

All ages are welcome to this off-site program. To sign up, call (847) 358-5881, ext. 167 or visit www.palatinelibrary.org.

For a full schedule of "Exploring South Asia: India and Beyond" events, please visit www.palatinelibrary.org/southasia.

Palatine Public Library District serves approximately 90,000 residents predominantly within the communities of Palatine and Hoffman Estates.

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