The Sikh Faith

The principles of Sikhism are based on the teachings of the Ten Sikh Gurus (1469 AD-1708 AD).  Guru Nanak Devji, the first Guru laid down the fundamentals of a Universal God and Brotherhood of man. Guru Nanak emphasised the need for man’s devotion to the Timeless Almighty. The Guru also gave his followers the concept of a free kitchen (Langar) to break the caste system. Each of the succeeding nine Gurus added something definitive or dynamic to enable it to meet the needs of changing times and new problems. The word ‘Sikh’ means a Seeker of Truth and a learner of disciple. A Sikh is any person who believes in one God, The Ten Sikh Gurus and the Sikh Scripture, The Guru Granth Sahib.

Sikhism believes in a casteless egalitarian society which gives equal rights to men and women. It believes in universal love and peace and leads one to the path of God's realisation.  Sikh ethics are: earning an honest living, leading a disciplined life, sharing with others and meditating on God’s name.

Sikhs in York

There are several Sikh families living in York and most of the Sikh community activities have taken place at York St John.  In addition, families meet together in their homes to celebrate festivals and to observe Sikh customs and practice.  It has recently been agreed that regular prayer (Darbar) will happen once a month at York St John.  Other events that have taken place include: Gurdwara day celebrations where staff and students at YSJ were given the flavour of readings from the holy book, and an open forum was held on Sikhism; Diwali celebrations where 200 people from the local community gathered for story telling of Diwali, prayers, hymn singing, dancing and fireworks followed by a meal; and lectures and exhibitions on Sikhism and its holy book have also been held on the campus.

The Sikh Advisers

Darminder Singh and Gurdeep Kaur Chadha have been faith advisers for York St John for three years. They have been married for 32 years and have lived in York for 29 years where they have both worked and raised their two daughters. Their faith has always played a very important part in their lives. In addition to their involvement in the local community, they play their role in the Sikh community of Leeds. 

They are now both retired and are involved in various voluntary and charitable organisations. As part of their role as Sikh advisers they take an active part in the ‘Sikh Module’ for students, organised by the Theology Department.

There are two Sikh community centres and a Gurdwara in Leeds. The Ramgarhia Gurdwara is located on Chapeltown Road, Chapeltown, Leeds.
Tel. (0113) 262 9073 or (0113) 262 5427.