The International Day of Peace was celebrated at Peace Center, Lahore on 28th of September, 2015 ( We postponed it from 21st September due to heavy rains). There were around 100 participants from Muslim, Christian, Hindu and Baha'i communities.
The program started with releasing of doves and balloons in the air.
The video message of Ban Ki-moon, UN Secretary General was read, speeches were made on the challenges of violence, armed race and lack on interreligious harmony. The speakers admired the message of Ban Ki-moon, peace songs and Video presentations were done. Ther was also launching ceremony of the book of Rev. Dr. Marcus Fida called "Shehr-e-Amn" (City of Peace), there was distribution of Peace Awards for the outstanding promoters of peace and harmony from different religions and organizations. There was also a candle light ceremony.
All committed to carry the mission of interfaith dialogue and peace with the youth, women groups, religious leaders and especially at grass roots levels.
This IDP was presided over by: His Grace, Sebastian Shaw, Archbishop of Lahore.
Chief Guest, Mr. Khalil Tahir Sandhu, Provincial Minister for Human Rights and Minorities Affairs.
Guest of Honor included:
Mualana Abdul Khabir Azad, Grand Imam of Badshahi Mosque Lahore.
Allama Zubair Abid, Bishop Alwin Samuel, Pir Shafaat Rasoo, Syed Nao Bahar Shah, Dr. Knwal Feroze, Mr. Sohail Ahmed Raza.
This program was jointly organized by the Peace Center, URI Pakistan, Global Mission Awareness and Catholic Commission for Interreligious Dialogue and Ecumenism.
The hosts were: Fr James Channan OP, Rev. Dr. Marqus Fida and Mr. Javaid William.
There was a good number of both electronic and press media.
The program ended with supper.
I am pasting some photos of the program. Hope you will be able to open these attachments.
May Peace Prevail On Earth!
In peace,
fr James Channan OP
URI Regional Coordinator Pakistan
Director, Peace Center, Lahore