NRI PULSE STAFF REPORT
Reno, NV, March 3, 2025: Religious leaders from diverse traditions gathered at the Unity Center of Reno on Sunday to hold a candlelight vigil and offer prayers for the swift recovery of Pope Francis, who is currently hospitalized in Rome.
The event, organized by Hindu statesman Rajan Zed and hosted by Unity Minister Toni King, brought together representatives from Christian denominations, Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Baha’i, Native American, and Pagan traditions. Prayers were recited in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, Arabic, Sanskrit, Pali, Hebrew, and Paiute.
“We, the leaders of various religions and denominations, are standing together as a single united spiritual family, praying for the protection of the physical, mental, and spiritual health of Pope Francis,” said Zed, who serves as President of the Universal Society of Hinduism. He emphasized the Pope’s global role in fostering peace, interfaith dialogue, and social justice.
The vigil featured a mix of spiritual and artistic expressions. Oscar Dallas Smith, a world-renowned musician, played the raga Misra Shivarangini on the bansuri, an ancient bamboo flute, moving the audience with its meditative tones. Indigenous spirituality exponent and Sundancer Savina V. Zuniga led the traditional ritual of burning sage, a practice believed to cleanse and purify. Participants also lit candles on a traditional Hindu temple lamp.
The gathering included Rabbi Benjamin Zober of Temple Sinai, Ethnic Ministry Director of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Reno Maripaz Ramos, Micheal L. Peterson of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Mona Sargent of Sparks United Methodist Church, Buddhist leader M. Edward Goddard, Baha’i teacher Roya Alizadeh Galata, and Pagan leader Excolas Danae M. Miller. Music was also provided by Cherie Shipley, her band, and harpist Kirsten Gleissner.
An atheist thinker, Anthony Shafton, also shared his thoughts, reflecting on the universal values of compassion and humanity that transcend religious boundaries.
Zed urged religious leaders worldwide to continue keeping Pope Francis in their prayers, recognizing his efforts to promote peace, bridge religious divides, and advocate for the marginalized.
