We live in a world fearful of differences. It is lack of understanding that warps our perceptions and fuels our prejudices. Possibly nowhere, is their greater misunderstanding than when it comes to religious beliefs.
It is widely held that the homogeneous makeup of rural and small town North America tends to foster a xenophobic isolation. Differences are seldom seen; hence, even less seldom understood.
A history teacher, John Hetherington, from West Ferris Secondary School in North Bay, Ontario has addressed this issue in unique manner and he has been doing so for the past eight years. Would that all students in Canada be exposed to the experience offered by this remarkable educator.
Twice a year he pays us a visit with a different group of students. On a two-day field trip they are exposed to the worlds’ major religions. They attend hosted visits at an Islamic Mosque; a Jewish Synagogue; a Buddhist Temple; a Hindu Temple; and a Sikh Temple. Every attempt seems to be made to foster a cultural, as well as a religious understanding.
What John has seen is that his students begin to realize that all religions seek truth, justice and peace. And rather than focusing on differences, begin to learn just how similar we all are.
In case anyone is listening, it’s plain to see that this is a program should be offered in every high school in the Province. We look forward to hosting John’s next group of students.
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