Anger over religious pamphlet -
THE man behind a pamphlet questioning whether Christianity or Hinduism “made the most sense” has apologised, describing himself as an “overzealous American who made a mistake”.
John Robinson, the international member of Potter’s House in Verulam, penned the pamphlet to announce a visit by an Indian pastor, Marcus Samuel.
I can tell from the reaction that this is a very tender issue, and that is not what I came here for
It read: “Christianity or Hinduism: Which makes more sense? Come find your answers. Teachings on the differences between Christianity and Hinduism.”
Distributed ahead of a church meeting scheduled for July 18, it made waves on social media networks.
On Thursday, the South African Hindu Maha Sabha threatened the church with legal action if the event took place.
In a letter to Robinson, Maha Sabha president Ashwin Trikamjee demanded that the event be cancelled or “we will be compelled (much against our wishes) to seek the assistance of the South African Police Service and the high court to restrain you from your unlawful attempts”.
Robinson said it was not his intention to harm anyone or their beliefs. He hoped the issue “would blow over”.
“I apologise for the misunderstanding. Samuelwas invited over by us to share his testimony of how he was converted.
“We cancelled the event out of respect for the Hindu community and apologised, and hope that is the end of it.
“I can tell from the reaction that this is a very tender issue and that is not what I came here for.” He has been in South Africa for a few months.
In his response to the Maha Sabha, he said he took full responsibility for his actions, attributing the error to his “ignorance and lack of discretion”.
The Maha Sabha’s Kribbs Naidu said the organisation had accepted Robinson’s apology and would not be taking the matter further.
However, an upset Facebook user, Sanjay Pandya Astroforu, posted a picture of the pamphlet and commented: “I’m challenging this pastor to meet me. I will teach you differences between religions. Stop your propaganda, Mr Pastor. . . I’ve got thousands of Christian friends, but I never told anyone to convert, but they are all coming with love to me and my temple. Share this, all KwaZulu-Natal. This person is anti-Hindu.”