Forum Monday Explores Sikh, Other Faiths

People of several different faiths will come together Monday to talk about their religions in an effort to increase understanding following the shootings at the Sikh Temple of Wisconsin.

Representatives from the Sikh, Hindu, Muslim, Jewish and Buddhist traditions will speak at "Know Your Neighbors: Exploring Our Diverse Faiths." The event will be held from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Oak Creek Community United Methodist Church, 8675 S. 13th St.

The evening will begin with an emphasis on the Sikh faith, followed by overviews on the other religions.

The Sikh Temple of Wisconsin was rocked Aug. 5 when a gunman with white supremacist ties killed six members and wounded four others, including an Oak Creek police officer.

Organizers say religious diversity is increasing in the southeastern Wisconsin area, but hate groups are on the rise nationwide.

"The goal is to move into and beyond tolerance to understanding and friendship, recognizing the many things that we all have in common as people of faith and as Americans," according to an event flier.

Refreshments and informal conversation will follow the event, which is free and open to the public.

The Milwaukee Association for Interfaith Relations, a program of the Interfaith Conference, is organizing the gathering.