Sihk kirpan controversy in Quebec

[Father Bill]

I smile and note that for many folks, being non-religious has in a very strange way become a religion. I also note that most folks make rather massive assumptions about what I believe, based on my title of address. In every case to date, they have been wrong.

Symbols are of tremendous importance: a flag, a turban, a cross, a tartan, a swastika, a crown, a clerical collar, but never assume that you know what it means to the person who is displaying it. Just ask politely, and surely they will tell you. On this bulletin board we all share one symbol in particular - the kilt, but its meaning to each of us will vary.

Thus too with the kirpan and how the religious requirement is followed - to some a hairpin or small symbol will be sufficient. To others, this may be an insult to their understanding of the religious requirement. For example, I am not to wear a cross on a necklace. That may surprise many of you, but in my tradition only Bishops wear a cross, and it's normally a great huge one.

We need to spend more time over meals with one another. It's hard to argue with someone with whom you have broken bread. (That's one small part of the symbolism and meaning in the Holy Communion over which I have the privilege of presiding.)

And I would assume that many in this bulletin board would also add a good shot of single-malt to the thought of sharing a meal, but then there are many in my faith who will be offended by the avatar I have chosen, saying that a priest should shy away from alcohol. I sincerely don't want to fuel any new discussion on that one, but my point is merely that interpreting somebody else's symbols or religion is a dolt's game. Dont interpret - ASK!

Lovingly,

Father Bill

[xman]

We need to spend more time over meals with one another. It's hard to argue with someone with whom you have broken bread.

Well said, Bill. We are all individuals and unique from others, but we needn't let those differences become problems between us.