Reno, Nevada (USA): In a remarkable interfaith gathering, religious leaders from diverse faiths came together in Reno, Nevada, to hold a candlelight vigil and offer special prayers for the swift recovery of Pope Francis, who is currently hospitalized in Rome.
Multi-Faith Prayers in Various Languages
The vigil, organized by Hindu statesman Rajan Zed and hosted by Unity Minister Toni King, included prayers from Christian (various denominations), Hindu, Buddhist, Jewish, Baha’i, Native American, and Pagan traditions. These prayers were offered in English, Spanish, Arabic, Sanskrit, Pali, Hebrew, and Paiute languages, reflecting a spirit of unity and compassion.
Spiritual Rituals and Musical Offerings
Renowned musician Oscar Dallas Smith played the raga “Misra Shivarangini” on the bansuri (ancient bamboo flute), evoking deep emotions among the attendees. Indigenous Spirituality Exponent & Sundancer Savina V. Zuniga performed the ancient spiritual ritual of burning sage, while religious leaders lit candles on a traditional Hindu temple lamp as a symbol of hope and healing.
A Call for Unity and Strength
Rajan Zed, President of the Universal Society of Hinduism, emphasized that religious leaders stand together as one united spiritual family, praying for Pope Francis’ physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. He urged global religious leaders to keep the Pope in their prayers, recognizing his work in building bridges of peace, championing the oppressed, and promoting interfaith dialogue.
Diverse Religious Leaders in Attendance
Besides Zed and King, the vigil saw participation from:
- Rabbi Benjamin Zober (Temple Sinai)
- Maripaz Ramos (Ethnic Ministry Director, Roman Catholic Diocese of Reno)
- Micheal L. Peterson (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints)
- Mona Sargent (Sparks United Methodist Church)
- Buddhist leader M. Edward Goddard
- Baha’i teacher Roya Alizadeh Galata
- Pagan leader Excolas Danae M. Miller
- Musical support from Cherie Shipley, band, and harpist Kirsten Gleissner
The event stood as a powerful testament to interfaith harmony, uniting different faiths in prayer, music, and shared hope for Pope Francis’ speedy recovery.
