Despite the ideological gap existing among religions, an Abbotsford Anglican Missioner is suggesting how to bridge the gap locally: interfaith cooperation.

In this second part of an interview by CIVL, Allan Doerksen discusses his hope that Muslim, Sikh and Christian communities look for common avenues of unity. Recently, he participated in an event hosted by Columbia Bible College and organized by the Muslim Community. At this venue, Muslims, Sikhs and Christians came together to speak on unity and justice, but from the viewpoint of their respective religions.

Doerksen’s small parish community identifies with an interfaith group that sponsors two Syrian refugee families. He is convinced that interfaith groups need to cooperate with each other to help, not only in this community, but also the one at large.

"It's cool to be able to recognize our need of each other, that we can't do it without other faith groups, and they are kind of in in the same place," Doerksen said.

Doerksen said he is empathetic towards the LGBTQ community and is a strong advocate for it. Doerksen conducted a seminar at the University of the Fraser Valley on the bible and LGBTQ rights, even though the Christian community is divided on the issue. He discussed the bible and the Christian faith on this topic and why people from the Christian Community are divided on the subject. Also, He opinions that some Sikh members may be struggling with such issues and, if so, he would be supportive of them.

"I know that there's different perspectives, within every religious community, about this issue. So I respect those different positions but I do like to work on important issues with different faith groups and at least have a dialogue about what might be possible," Doerksen said.

As difficult as it may be, the Anglican Missioner said we must make every effort to build cooperation and bridge the religious ideological gap between, and among, religious communities. Doerksen believes there are two questions common to humanity that must be addressed: “Are you okay?” and “How can I help you?” He said that by asking such questions, it helps bridge the gap.