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Prayer Unites Christian, Muslim, Hindu, and Jewish Clergy

In a remarkable interfaith gesture, Catholic, Muslim, Hindu, Jewish, and Episcopal clergy of the region prayed together here for "our world".

This joint prayer, organized by Catholic Diocese of Reno, was read by Father Charles T. Durante, Pastor of Saint Teresa of Avila Catholic Community of Carson City; Imam Abdul Rahim Barghouthi of Northern Nevada Muslim Community; prominent Hindu chaplain and Indo-American leader Rajan Zed; Rabbi Myra Soifer of Temple Sinai-Reform; and Reverend V. James Jeffrey, Rector Emeritus of Trinity Episcopal Church of Reno.

"We pray for the forgiveness of all people of faith, that we may remove any barriers of prejudice or intolerance so that the world's religions may recognize the similarities and beliefs we share," it was prayed.

"We pray for the councils of churches, synagogues, mosques and temples throughout the world at national and local levels, that the work which they accomplish together might be a witness to peace and justice, to love and understanding for all the world to see," the joint prayer went on.

Hindu chaplain Rajan Zed warmly welcomed the efforts towards interfaith cooperation by Catholic Diocese and added that a broader and more inclusive understanding of religion was necessary for all of us.