Premier Christy Clark has issued the following message celebrating the centennial anniversary of the Sikh Gurdwara Temple in Abbotsford:

"In 1908, local Sikhs, most of them new to Canada, began work on a temple in Abbotsford. It took them four years and countless hours of physical and emotional effort before it was completed. Now, 100 years later, Sikhs and non-Sikhs continue to gather to celebrate the beautiful Sikh Gurdwara Temple.

"Today, the Temple is more than just a building. It's a sacred place with a long history of holiness, community and family. The Temple and the people who continue to care for it are a significant part of the cultural mosaic that makes our province great.

"Every year, we build on the heritage established by your ancestors as we welcome new neighbours, co-workers and friends as they immigrate to Canada. Your community and this temple are key parts of the rich cultural tapestry that not only helps define us, but makes us who we are.

"I offer my sincere congratulations on this important milestone in British Columbia's and the Sikh community's history."

Christy Clark
Premier of British Columbia

Contact:
Chris Olsen
Press Secretary
Office of the Premier
604 220-1640