February 1 , 2005

by Larry Pena

La Sierra University’s Stahl Center Museum of Culture opened a new exhibit, entitled “Festivals of Faith:  Exploring Belief Around the World,” featuring sacred objects, traditions, and history of the world’s religions, Saturday, January 29.

The opening ceremony, which began at 2 p.m. in the foyer of La Sierra Hall, drew a large gathering of students, local church members, and people from the community. Dan Smith, pastor of the La Sierra University Church, and Dr. Lawrence T. Geraty, President of La Sierra University, spoke of their experiences growing up in areas of great religious and cultural diversity.  Guests were then given a chance to browse the various displays, which were arranged by theme rather than religious tradition—for example, a display on objects of devotion or religious ceremonies rather than Hinduism or Christianity.

The opening ceremony was accompanied by a live re-enactment of Haaj, the Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca, the birthplace of Islam.  A group of children from the Al Farouk Learning Center in Anaheim performed and explained the sacred rite, which included group prayers, traditional dress, and a replica of the Kaaba, the most revered shrine of Islam.

“We felt the ceremony was beautifully done,” said Shabnoum Husain, principal of the Al Farouk Learning Center.  “We felt so welcomed at the University.  The harmony we felt on campus is really what made the event so wonderful.”

“I’m just so pleased with how the opening turned out,” said Kay Clayton, the curator of the Stahl Center Museum and principle organizer of the ceremony.  With over 100 people in attendance, including representatives from other local universities and religious institutions of various faiths, Clayton hopes that the event will draw greater involvement from the community to the Stahl Center. 

The Stahl Center is open Saturday afternoons from 2-5 p.m. and Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.  Docent-led tours are available by appointment.  For more information on the Stahl Center or “Festivals of Faith,” or to schedule a tour, contact Kay Clayton at (951) 785-2999.