Different Faiths Gather for World Religion Day

January 28, 2007

Author: Lisa Bolivar

Source: The Miami Herald

http://www.miami.com/mld/miamiherald/news/local/states/florida/counties/broward_county/cities_neighborhoods/pembroke_pines/16548547.htm

World Religion Day at the Southwest Regional Library in Pembroke Pines was a mosaic of faces in a packed auditorium.

About a dozen faiths and nine languages were represented during the Jan. 21 presentation on world religions sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of Pembroke Pines, the United Nations Association-USA Chapter of Broward County and the library.

''History says people have been killed more in the name of religion than any other reason, while the real message of religion is unity and helping everyone and the golden rule,'' said event coordinator Nosrat Scott, president of UNA-USA Broward and chairwoman of the Baha'i Assembly. "It's time now to accept one another and to have respect.''

Library event coordinator Pat Ventura told the crowd that next year she will move the event to larger quarters. Pembroke Pines Vice Mayor Iris Siple read a proclamation declaring the day World Religion Day in the city.

Many of the religions represented brought children who illustrated themes of their faith. Kathy Fernandez, 50, of Miami, and her son, Standing Eagle, 24, were among a handful of Native Americans who attended.