President Bush greets Sikhs on Gurpurab
WSN Network

Washington: Sections of the community see it only as a fixed-template message, while many others see it as some kind of a propaganda gimmick but the fact remains that the President of the United States, George W. Bush, did send his warm greetings to Sikhs across America and worldwide on the 538th birth-anniversary of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism.

The WSN holds that no matter who are the people who goaded or inspired the President towards this end, such developments do help the community and aid in the efforts of many Sikh organisations in explaining to the Americans and the wider world about who the Sikhs are and what Sikhism stands for.

The Sikh community in the U.S. celebrated this auspicious occasion on Saturday, November 24, 2007 as also in their respective congregations all over the world.

President Bush in his message, said, “I send greetings to those celebrating the 538th anniversary of Guru Nanak’s birth."

“Our Nation benefits from a strong tradition of faith, and religious diversity is an important part of this heritage. The teachings of Guru Nanak provide strength and support to thousands of Sikhs in America and millions more around the world. Their belief in a loving God reminds us of the gift of religious freedom in our country and helps make the world a more hopeful place,” the President said.

He praised the Sikh community by saying, “I appreciate the Sikh community for your strong devotion to faith and family. By sharing Guru Nanak’s messages of truth, contentment, compassion, humility and love, you are helping change lives, one heart and one soul at a time” Bush further added, “Laura and I send our best wishes for a joyous occasion.”

The Sikh Council on Religion and Education (SCORE) in Washington received this message from the White House. Dr. Rajwant Singh, chairman of SCORE thanked President Bush for extending best wishes to the Sikh community.

Dr. Rajwant Singh said, "The Sikh community in the United States is extremely pleased with President Bush’s greetings. This definitely recognizes the Sikh presence in the U. S. and it helps in solidifying our belief that America welcomes all religions.

Dr. Singh further added, “President Bush and his administration have been extremely prompt in responding to the needs of the Sikhs. We always remember his leadership immediately after 9/11 and his words of assurance to the Sikh community facing tough times during those days.”

Incidentally, Dr. Rajwant Singh is a frequent invitee to prayer meetings as well to discuss other domestic issues to the White House. He was also invited at the state dinner in honor of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh at the White House.

28 November 2007