We, the Cabinet of Interfaith Partnership/Faith Beyond Walls, condemn the morally reprehensible attack on the Sikh temple in Oak Creek, Wisc. With great compassion we support the victims and their families. They are in our prayers. We mourn with them.

We also grieve the burning of the Islamic Center in Joplin and send our support and prayers to the Joplin Muslim community.

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Our members share the conviction that violence never serves the cause of truth or faith. Each faith community has the right to worship in peace and safety. We honor the rich religious diversity that enhances our life together. We believe the best antidote to hatred, and the violence it creates, is living the values that uphold a democratic society which include respect, peaceful means of resolving differences and responsiveness to those in need.

We work to educate the St. Louis community regarding the different faith traditions and encourage dialogue and working together in the community. Interfaith Partnership welcomes the general public to join us in learning about the basics of Sikhism at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 18 at Eden Theological Seminary, 475 E. Lockwood Avenue in Webster Groves. 

Interfaith Partnership includes over 30 different faith traditions in the St. Louis area. Our motto:  “As communities of faith, we agree to differ, promise to love, and unite to serve.”

Maryl Walters, CSB, Chair of the Cabinet