R. Skyler Oberst

In the wake of such incredible heartache and tragedy, Sikhs have unquestionably handled the situation with dignity and resolve. In a time where anger and outrage spill across TV screens, editorial columns, airways and phone lines, it would have been no surprise to hear that the Sikh community was violently outraged about what happened.

Some weeks ago, I was asked to speak at the Eastern Washington University Baccalaureate ceremony. I said I would, on the condition that I would wear my robe. I figured I had to pay for it, and the honors cords as well, so I’m going to wear it as much as possible.

To me, the church exists because we are all sinners. No one — no matter how dramatic their frocks, how imprinted Scripture is on their mind, or how tall their hat is — is worthy of judging others.

Photo from Yom HaShoah service at Temple Beth Shalom