By Daphne Machiri
There is need to create a world where people communicate, cooperate, and help each other regardless of religion.
Chairman Man-hee Lee of Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light( HWPL) said this during HWPL’s 8th Annual Commemoration of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW) where about 12,500 notable international experts from diverse fields, political, legal, religious, educational, media, representatives from women, youth sectors both online and in person gathered to discuss institutionalizing peace at a peace training institute in Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea under the theme “Building the Minds of Peace: Promoting Institutional Peace via Intercultural Dialogue and Understanding”
He pointed out that conflicts caused by religion have threatened global peace hence they should join hand in achieving universal harmony.
“Different religions should come together, learn each other’s values and become one by comparative study on scriptures. Religious communities should practice faith based on scriptures, so they can live with humanity on this earth.”
More so in light of amidst ongoing global conflicts 2023 alone; conflicts like the Russia-Ukraine war, the Israel-Hamas war, and numerous international disputes tragically claimed the lives of over 33,000 civilians and displaced millions. Recognizing this dire reality, Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL).
HWPL has consistently held annual commemorative ceremonies to advocate for the institutionalization of peace since its proclamation in March 14, 2016.
Speaking at the same event in his congratulatory speech, H.E. Vidura Wickramanayaka, Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, said the commitment and dedication shown in the pursuit of peace projects have not only been commendable.
“They have also laid the foundation for a more harmonious world. The tireless efforts of individuals and organizations working towards the common goal of ending war and fostering understanding among nations are truly inspiring,” he said.
President of the Daegak Buddhism Jogye Order in South Korea, Ven. Beopsan who has been participating in interreligious dialogue for nine years, emphasized the importance of religious leaders’ participation in peace-building efforts including comparative study of scriptures.
“Intercultural dialogue and understanding can be found at HWPL’s World Alliance of Religions’ Peace Office. The root of religion is one and its meaning is a truly noble value,” he noted.
Nonetheless drafted in collaboration with international legal specialists from 15 countries, the DPCW comprises 10 articles and 38 clauses. It outlines the principles and tools necessary to prevent and resolve conflicts, cultivates a peaceful global society, and defines clear roles for individuals, communities, and nations in achieving lasting peace.
The ceremony concluded with a variety of performances depicting the journey of peace. During the performance, there was a session where the contents of Article 10, 38 clauses of the DPCW were explained through performance, and expressed an image of a paradise filled with flowers where peace was achieved.
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