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Ritual Daggers Bar Sikhs From Meeting Pope

Religion, Secret Service at impasse for April interfaith US gathering

By Matt Cantor,  Newser Staff

Posted Mar 6, 2008 12:00 PM CST
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(Newser) – Sikh leaders won’t attend a US interfaith meeting with Pope Benedict XVI next month because the Secret Service won’t let them wear ceremonial daggers, the AP reports. Kirpaans are required attire for the Eastern religion. “We cannot undermine the rights and freedoms of religion in the name of security,” said a Sikh official. But the Secret Service won’t bend the rules.

“We understand the kirpaan is a sanctified religious object. But by definition, it's still a weapon,” said a Secret Service rep. A conference spokeswoman said bishops involved in the meeting would be “very sad” to miss the Sikhs. The gathering of leaders of several religions, intended to show a commitment to peace, is scheduled for April 17.

The Sikh ceremonial kirpaan is banned from a meeting with the Pope in the US.
The Sikh ceremonial kirpaan is banned from a meeting with the Pope in the US.   ((c) TeraRoop11)
The kirpaan, a dagger-like item worn by Sikhs, will not be allowed at a US meeting with the Pope.
The kirpaan, a dagger-like item worn by Sikhs, will not be allowed at a US meeting with the Pope.   ((c) TeraRoop11)
Pope Benedict XVI blesses the faithful during the traditional Sunday noon Angelus prayer he celebrated from the balcony of his studio overlooking St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, March 2, 2008. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)
Pope Benedict XVI blesses the faithful during the traditional Sunday noon Angelus prayer he celebrated from the balcony of his studio overlooking St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, March 2, 2008....   (Associated Press)
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The history of the kirpaan
SikhiWiki

More on the decision
NDTV.com

 
Pope Benedict XVI • Secret Service • Catholic • Sikh • bishop • kirpaan • dagger • sword

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