Is there one true religion as many faiths claim to be?

Religious leaders in the Kansas city, mo., area answer this question.

RELIGIONS TRANSFORM
Lama Chuck Stanford, Rime Buddhist Center & Monastery: It does seem paradoxical that so many religions claim to be the one true religion. However, Buddhism is unique in that it does not make such a claim. In fact, Buddhism believes that truth can be found in many spiritual traditions.

In the Buddhist teachings, it is said that the Buddha gave 84,000 types of teachings for different kinds of minds. Likewise, different minds or personalities respond more positively to one religion more than another.

Our Hindu brothers and sisters have a wonderful saying that "all rivers lead to the same ocean." Likewise, all religions encourage good actions, moral virtues, personal responsibility, and see the world and our lives as sacred and meaningful.

But what is the sacred? The sacred is contrasted with the profane, the secular and the incomplete. The sacred is that which is seen as whole, perfect, of supreme value and of utmost concern.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama has said on many occasions that he believes all major religions have the same potential to transform us into better human beings. Therefore, if a particular religion is accomplishing this objective by helping its practitioners to become better, kinder, more compassionate beings, then why should it matter which religion one practices? What is most important is that we are making this world we live in a better place for everyone.

IT IS YOUR DECISION
The Rev. R.L. Baynham, pastor of Metropolitan Baptist Church, Kansas City, Kan.: The profoundness of this question raises a multitude of responses, more than this writer would have time to embrace.

Every facet of mankind has tried to answer the question of where we came from, where are we and where are we going. Man has had an insatiable desire to be in touch with his creator.

Many times he creates images that help support his inter-cravings with the supernatural. We call these creations idol gods. Idol gods have for centuries ruled the thought and actions of many.

Having tried in the simplest manner possible to explain a world view of many gods and, therefore, many religions, please allow me to express my view as a Christian. I believe in the basic teachings of the Bible and how God expects man to respond to him. We are taught that God is the one and true God. We are taught that God is the provider of every good and perfect gift. We are taught that life is sustained by his unveiling grace and mercy.

So is there one true religion? Depending on who's doing the preaching? All claims will be made for one or the other; however, you will have to make that decision based upon your cultural and social impacts.