Indian American physicians hold inter-faith spiritual session to hail healthcare professionals fighting the pandemic.
About 200 Indian American physicians lit lamps in their homes as they joined spiritual leaders from major religions in a prayer vigil for healthcare workers who have fallen victim to the coronavirus pandemic.
Organized by the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI), the solemn ceremony Sunday began with Dr Rajam Ramamurthy lighting a lamp as she chanted a Sanskrit mantra and recited an Urdu poem, according to an AAPI release.
Describing the significance of lighting the lamp in each spiritual tradition, Ramamurthy, past chair of AAPI Board of Trustees, asked the participants to “light the lamp in one’s own tradition” and fold hands before the light that destroys darkness and evil.
AAPI president Dr Suresh Reddy, who lit the lamp on behalf of the ethnic professional association, stressed the importance of healthcare workers in fighting the deadly disease.
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Indian American Congressman Raja Krishnamurthy, acknowledging the twin challenges facing America today, namely the health crisis and economic crisis, thanked healthcare professionals for their “dedication to the nation.”
Nissim Rueben, of Indian Jewish Association of USA, stressed the importance of interfaith cooperation and compassion.
“We take a lot for granted in our lives and now is the time to appreciate the blessing of life and for the need to help discover oneself and support each other in this journey,” said Lama Sean Jones, a Buddhist priest.
“It’s the Spirit of Humanity in our hearts that gives us the faith and courage to move forward,” said Abi Chacko, vicar, St. Mary’s Orthodox Church, Oak Lawn, Illinois.
Mufti Hafiz Ahmed Rabbani, Islamic Association of Greater Detroit, shared about community out-reach and offering lectures online and distributing food and supplies to people and frontline healthcare providers.
Swami Ishatmanada, Vivekananda Vedanta Society of Chicago, citing a verse from the Upanishad said “the role of religion is to teach us that this is a passing phase and we will overcome this one too.”
David Levy, Rabbi, American Jewish Committee, referred to the formation of Hindu-Jewish Coalition and its amazing work with people of all faiths, addressing hate crimes around the country.
“All life is from one seed, one source, the same God,” said Sikh priest Bhai Mohinder Singh. “Recognizing this truth will help us all work together and for all from all religions.”
With one minute of silence with folded hands and heads bowed, AAPI members and spiritual leaders prayed for the speedy recovery of Drs. Ajay Lodha, Anjana Samaddar, Dr. Sunil Mehra and thousands of other healthcare professionals who are receiving treatment for covid-19.
The inter-faith vigil had helped to put lot of healthcare workers at ease by spiritual leaders from various faiths in this hour of crisis, said Dr. Jayesh Shah, past president of AAPI.