Pray for healing our divisions

The Inter-Religious Council of Linn County does not endorse political candidates and is not involved in partisan politics. It does, however, hold to certain ethics and principles found in the teachings of our member faiths. It is from this position we feel a need to reach out at this time.

In a famous old story, Rabbi Hillel is asked if he can teach the essential lesson of the Bible to a non-believer, while standing on one foot. He replies, “What is hateful to you, don’t do to your neighbor. The Golden Rule is found in nearly all religions and faiths. Though it is more commonly expressed, “Do unto others as you would have them do to you.” It’s an expression of harmony and unity between people, and of a better world that we can create through daily interactions.

Though it is true division and misinformation have always been with us in the politics of the past, we still have been able to come together, despite our differences and work toward a better nation and world. Unfortunately, this seems to be more and more difficult given how divided and separate our two political sides seem to be today. It’s clear to us that many are unhappy with the outcome of this election, a number we feel is likely to grow over time.

We would like to remind our community that together we can accomplish great things, divided we are unlikely to move forward in a meaningful way.

We pray that our leaders approach the future with the goal of healing our rifts and protecting the most vulnerable among us. We pray that our leaders act in the best interests us all and they inspire all of us to live by the Golden Rule. We pray that they are guided to do what is right and just for the entire nation they now represent.

Brian Daugherty is president of the Inter-Religious Council of Linn County. His column was unanimously approved by the IRCLC board.