IOWANS REACT: Temple Shooting Brings Changes

News of Sunday’s shooting at a Sikh Temple in Wisconsin is having an effect on people nationwide, including right here in Iowa.

Members of Sikh temple of Iowa in West Des Moines are not only in mourning, they are also taking precautions.

In the Sikh religion, the Temple is a place of worship, prayer and peace- the opposite of what unfolded in Wisconsin.

“We were in the temple at that time, and I came to know that this thing happened, and I was really shocked when I heard about this,” said Baljit Singh.

The Sikh religion teaches equality and respect, and their doors are open 24-7. They never turn anyone away.

“Everybody is welcome in our temple. We do a free food service also on every Sunday,” said Singh. Despite this terrible tragedy, that will never change, but they will be more vigilant now.

“From past experiences, people talked that maybe it could have an effect on other temples also. But the main thing is better to be attentive and cool and calm, and pray and just proceed,” explained Singh.

Temple leaders have asked West Des Moines Police to increase their patrols near the temple, and worshipers are asked to keep their eyes open for the safety of their families, and for the temple. However, they say their ultimate security is in prayer.

The Sikh temple of Iowa in West Des Moines is planning a memorial service next Sunday for the victims of the Oak Creek Wisconsin shooting. Temple leaders hope to have more details soon. Everyone is welcome.