GPF Stirs New York / New Jersey
Written by GPF Staff   
Thursday, 23 October 2008 00:00

A very colorful performance of the African dance-Aju Dance Group preceded the emotional testimonies of two young men from the Middle East-Elik El Hanan of Israel and Aziz Abu Sarah of Palestine, who represent the "Bereaved Family Forum" which calls for peace and reconciliation. Both men have lost close family members during the Middle East conflict, yet now see each other as brothers. Rev. Mark Farr, Director of Interfaith Initiatives for the Points of Light Foundation, challenged the audience to participate in GPF-USA's Million Acts of Kindness. Dr. Michael Jenkins, Chairman of UPF-USA, led the inspirational Interfaith Unity Ceremony with representatives of all the major religions participating. In this beautiful ceremony, the faith representatives poured water from their small bowls that represented the cherished traditions of their faith, into one large bowl that represented "One Family Under God".

The audience was then inspired by the remarks of His Excellency Anwarul K. Chowdhury, Former United Nations Under-Secretary General, who accentuated the international aspect of the peace effort. A sensational video presentation of recent international Global Peace Festivals in Paraguay, Washington, DC, Kenya and Mongolia preceded the Keynote Address given by GPF International Chairman, Dr. Hyun Jin Moon. Stressing the theme of "One Family Under God", Dr. Moon created a charged atmosphere of hope and expectation among the audience members, which, in turn, produced a standing and prolonged ovation at the address's conclusion.

Dr. Thomas Walsh, UPF International Secretary-General, then coordinated the presentation of special Universal Peace Federation Awards to several dignitaries. A grand finale with all performers and speakers on stage singing the Global Peace Festival anthem, "Where Peace Begins" concluded the NY/NJ Peace Festival.

 

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What is GPF?

The Global Peace Festival promotes and celebrates persons and programs that contribute to reconciliation, mutual respect, harmony and cooperation among the members of the whole human family, as "One Family Under God". In partnership with a variety of faith-based organizations, NGOs, government agencies, educational institutions, and members of the private sector, GPF encourages programs that strengthen God-centered marriages and families, facilitate intercultural and interreligious cooperation, and foster a culture of peace and service. Ongoing programs are carried out throughout the year, and culminate in a biennial Global Peace Festival that consists of an international leadership conference, a social impact program, and a public celebration.

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