Baby Steps Towards Change

People around the world have a strong belief that there is little to no hope for a resolution on the conflict between the Jews and the Muslims. This problem between the Jews and the Muslims seems to be exemplified as many seem to belief that the Muslims simply wish to have no communication with other religions. Nevertheless, my visit to the ancient Church of the Holy Sepulchre home to the tomb, crucifixion spot, and slab on which Jesus was laid on, showed otherwise.

                                  

             Coming from a Catholic background, arriving at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre was an overwhelming experience. Soon enough, I was shocked to see about 40 Muslims in line to visit what many Christians believe to be Jesus tomb.  I was curious as to what brought them to a church. Upon asking these Muslims followers what brought them to a church as this one, one of the men stated, “we are here to pay our respects.” Hearing this phrase changed the perspective I had towards Muslims. For members of a religion to go into another religious place to simply “pay respects” is a sign that there are those fighting for peace amongst various religions. Not all members of a certain religion have to simply abide by their beliefs rules. Seeing Muslims in a church, (although not a Jewish synagogue) shows that there still is some hope to achieve peace with various religions. Ultimately, by showing respect to a religion, these Muslims might have created an influence that will not only affect some followers of their religion, but other people as well. Eventually, respecting various religions in the church of the Holy Sepulchre can be seen as a stepping stone towards Muslims maybe even respecting Jews as well.  Although, showing respect to a religion can be seen as a simply baby step towards achieving peace among religions, it is a damn good start.

-R.S.