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OTHER NEWS STORIES - Adrenaline! rushed to recognition - Film demonstrates race relations are still relevant - This week in history - News Briefs Religious forum strives to reach understanding Mbedha Kiboigo Ebbtide Reporter To coincide with its campaign, "Stop, Reflect, Respect," Student Government held "Many Paths" on Feb. 6. It was the second forum of this year to discuss religion. It was designed to provide an arena in which students can gain a better understanding of other religions beliefs. In the context of politics and mainstream societal beliefs, the significance of each religion is often misunderstood or misrepresented. For example, Islam has been misrepresented after the attacks on the World Trade Center. "Islam is well-known by name, but unknown by beliefs," Mohammad Sarhan, president of the Muslim Student Association, said. Sarhan was one of the speakers on the all-student panel for the forum. Those who were at the first of two sections thought that as some people have used religion to justify violence against certain groups, it is often difficult to understand differing religions. Scott stated that despite this fact, additional harm has been done to targeted religions because societies have overlooked the ideals of each specific religion. While religions may differ in their practices and celebrations, all religions involve the principles of a higher power, family values, integrity and responsibilities to the environment and other human beings. As the forum ended many words were left unsaid due to time restraints. An important discussion has begun. Grace Kimm said it well when she said that religion should be about a personal relationship; and as a Christian she feels that although some religions work to convert others, it is her relationship with God that she values. One thing everyone agrees on is that the debate will go on for years to come. © 2003 Shoreline Community College™