The Silicon Valley Interreligious Council wishes to once again say how very sorry we are for our religious friends who suffered losses during this holiday season. It is passed time for everyone to condemn these horrific crimes by people who should be in treatment rather than taking the lives of others. May we find the courage in 2020 to change the pattern.

From the invocation at the Pacifica Institute Silicon Valley’s Interfaith Thanksgiving and Forum

Mother Teresa said “Spread love everywhere you go. Let no one ever come to you without leaving happier.” What a world it would be if we all followed that direction! Imagine if we each sent blessings to one another and gave thanks for all the diversity and variety there is. Each of us is a miracle and we all deserve to be loved and cherished. There should be no room for hote or prejudice directed at any person or group. Instead, let us ensure through our words and deeds that we are on the side of love. May peace, love and joy surround us and may we be thankful this year and every year for what we have been given.

Amen, Blessed Be, Namaste, Ameen

Ar the end of a fun day, at a local festival, the annual Gilroy Garlic Festival, tragedy struck by the hands of a gunman. This was not in some far away place, but in our own backyard. How do we once again mourn the loss of children, young people, along with a multitude of wounded? Sending thoughts and prayers is good, but not enough. Not enough to truly assuage the grief of the loved ones. May we find a way for people of all stripes, all beliefs, to come together to help prevent another such tragedy.