Sculptures exhibit faith shared

Sometimes irony is its own message.Last week a self-described constitutionalist, joined by the local chapter of his party, objected to the new sculpture of Ganesh in downtown Coeur d'Alene. Why? Because Ganesh is a Hindu god, and Hindus aren't Christians.

Despite their similar spiritual symbolism, the protesters didn't seem to mind St. Francis or the Native American spirit bear, two more of the 14 new sculptures downtown. Apparently their interpretation of "freedom of religion" in the Constitution is selectively applied. Ironic was the image of a party named Constitutionalist thus protesting against a principal tenet of its founding document. All three iconic statues share a common thread: a message of peace. In fact, St. Francis would probably not have approved; he took trouble to reach out to a Muslim sultan in 13th century Egypt. History describes their friendship and how the rich-man-turned-friar's outstretched hand changed the sultan's perceptions (and probably vice versa). Francis of Assisi remains a symbol of interreligious dialogue.

For that matter, why not go all the way with these shared messages of peace? We could add statues of the Baha'i founder Baha'ullah, who preached tolerance and respect for all beliefs, and peace above all. A meditating Buddha would be nice; he had the same message - compassion for all; enlightenment is achievable by many paths. Sunday, June 26, is Faith Shared Day (Faithshared.org) - a multifaith effort to promote peace, dialogue, human rights, and understanding among faiths. Churches and houses of worship across the country, from Washington's National Cathedral to Coeur d'Alene's Unity Church, will hold interfaith events to share concepts in Jewish, Christian, Muslim and other religions. The idea is simple: seek to understand. Remove prejudgment. Open hearts and minds.

Here's hoping irony becomes harmony.

Sholeh Patrick, J.D. is a columnist for the Hagadone News Network. Email [email protected]