Temple President Her Grace Visakha dasi was invited to join a panel of representatives at a Hertsmere Community Conference, in the Wyllyotts Theatre, Potters Bar.

The Community Conference brought together a wide range of delegates, from all sections of Hertsmere’s community to collectively learn, network and explore opportunities for collaboration. They discussed how to collectively come together to build a more cohesive community. It was chaired by the Leader of Hertsmere Council, Cllr Jeremy Newmark.

Commenting on local faith issues, Visakha dasi quoted the Gaudiya Vaishnava Acharya, Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakur:

“When I see the churches, mosques and temples of other faiths, I think: ‘They are also worshiping my Lord — but in a different way.’ Because of this, I feel great love and reverence for them.”

Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakur also expressed a broader principle in his writings, that a sincere devotee should honour all genuine religious paths that cultivate love of God, while remaining firmly devoted to their own tradition.

Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakur (1838 – 1914)