Patrick Forrester ’27

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Though a large majority of our students are Catholic, Strake Jesuit welcomes students of all faiths. An example is Sahib Singh ’26, who spoke to us about his religion, Sikhism.

When and how was the Sikh faith founded?
Sikhism was founded in 1469, when Guru Nanak was born in the Punjab region. He began teaching that there is one God and that all people are equal, and his teachings were later continued by nine Gurus.

What are the most important principles that guide those who follow the faith?
The most important principles of Sikhism include believing in one God and treating everyone as equal, no matter their background. Sikhs are taught to live honestly, work hard, help others through service (seva), and stand up for justice, while rejecting systems like caste discrimination. They also focus on remembering God in daily life through prayer and reflection. Many Sikhs keep uncut hair (kesh) and wear a turban as a sign of respect, discipline, and commitment to their faith.

What rituals or other activities distinguish the Sikh faith?
One important part of Sikhism, though I would not really call it a ritual, is Amrit, the initiation ceremony where someone formally commits to the faith, essentially a type of baptism. During this, they join the Khalsa and choose to live by Sikh values and discipline. Afterward, they follow stricter guidelines like wearing the Five Ks (Kesh uncut hair, Kara steel bracelet, Kanga comb, Kachera special shorts, and Kirpan ceremonial sword) and living a life focused on honesty, equality, and service to others.

Where does community worship take place for the Sikh faith? What happens during worship services?
Community worship in Sikhism takes place in a Gurdwara. People listen to readings from the Guru Granth Sahib and sing hymns together. Everyone sits on the floor as equals, and the service usually ends with a prayer and a shared meal called langar.

How has practicing the Sikh faith enriched your life?
Sikhism has allowed me to embody positive virtues and live them out. It reminds me that I look distinctive with my turban, which encourages me to always put my best foot forward and do my best, since I not only represent myself but also everyone who looks like me.

Has Strake Jesuit offered a good environment for building your personal faith? If so, how?
I think Strake Jesuit has been a good environment for building any faith. It teaches you to stay connected through prayer and to apply religious teachings to your daily life. The Examen, especially, is a great way to reflect on your day, be grateful, and practice introspection.

What else should our readers know about Sikhism?
Langar, the free community meal served in every Gurdwara (temple) across the world, feeds an estimated tens of millions of people each month worldwide, regardless of religion or background. At major Gurduwaras like the Golden Temple in Amritsar, India, it is reported that up to 100,000 free hot meals can be served in a single day, everyone is served regardless of religion, caste, gender, race, etc. 

Sikhism is the fifth-largest religion in the world.

The Sikh Regiment is the most highly decorated regiment in the Indian Army, known for its long history of bravery and numerous awards for valor in both wartime and peacetime operations.

The word “Sikh” means “student” or “learner,” because Sikhs see themselves as lifelong students. 

The Sikh flag, called the Nishan Sahib, is raised outside every Gurdwara and is usually bright orange or deep blue.

Many gurdwaras are open 24/7, welcoming anyone who needs food, shelter, or a place to rest.