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Dearborn Today
By the People, for the People
Reflecting on Holy Week and Religious Freedom
A pastor urges respect for all faiths in a diverse America
Apr. 4, 2026 at 9:06pm
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In a reflection on Holy Week, a pastor contrasts his upbringing in a predominantly Christian small town with the religious diversity of his current community in metropolitan Detroit. He emphasizes the importance of respecting the holy days and freedom of worship for all religions, not just Christianity.
Why it matters
This story highlights the evolving nature of religious pluralism in America and the need to balance public recognition of Christian holidays with respect for the holy days and practices of other faiths. It encourages interfaith understanding and tolerance in an increasingly diverse society.
The details
The pastor recounts how his small hometown in western Pennsylvania used to close businesses during Good Friday to honor the Christian observance, something he once took for granted. In contrast, his current community in metropolitan Detroit is home to a wide range of religious groups, including Jews, Muslims, Hindus, Chaldeans, and those with no religious affiliation. This diversity has led him to reflect on the significance of holy days beyond just Christianity, such as Jewish Passover and Ramadan.
- This week is known around the world as 'Holy Week,' marking the final days of Jesus' life from Palm Sunday to Good Friday and Easter.
- Across many nations, Palm Sunday is celebrated with grand parades, and Good Friday is commemorated by solemn pilgrimages.
The players
John Harnish
A pastor currently serving in metropolitan Detroit.
What they’re saying
“While I appreciated the recognition of Holy Week in my hometown, today I think about the significance of other holy weeks as well. What about Jewish Passover and the High Holy Days or Ramadan and Eid-al-Fitr?”
— John Harnish, Pastor
“When a politician says Christian values should be 'imposed' on American society, I have to wonder exactly what Christian values he is espousing and how he would feel if the Moslem community said the same thing.”
— John Harnish, Pastor
The takeaway
This story emphasizes the importance of respecting religious diversity and freedom of worship in a pluralistic society. It encourages interfaith understanding and tolerance, reminding readers that the freedom to practice one's own faith is intertwined with the freedom of others to do the same.
