Charting a Course for Global Harmony: HWPL’s 8th Anniversary Celebration Spotlights Solutions for International Conflict

Chicago, Illinois Mar 20, 2024 (Issuewire.com) – The Heavenly Culture World Peace Restoration of Light (HWPL), represented by Man-hee Lee, held a commemorative event on the 14th at the Peace Training Center located in Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea, under the theme “Building a Spirit of Peace: Cultural Dialogue and Understanding for Institutional Peace” to mark the 8th anniversary of the HWPL Global War Ending Peace Declaration.

Since the drafting and proclamation of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW) on March 14, 2016, HWPL has been holding annual commemorative events to realize the institutionalization of peace. This year, experts from various fields such as politics, law, religion, education, media, women, and youth from around the world participated both online and offline. In particular, the over 10,000 HWPL members in attendance filled the venue in an orderly manner following instructions.

The ceremony proceeded in the following order: (1) a commemorative video, (2) a congratulatory speech,(3) a presentation, and (4) a commemorative speech.

In his commemorative speech, HWPL representative Man-hee Lee stated, “I traveled around the world 31 times, meeting many religious and political figures, and conveyed the importance of peace,” adding, “Although there were differences, most were pure, and I always formed good relationships. I learned a lot from traveling to every country.”

He further emphasized, “It is important for us to communicate transcending borders, races, and religions,” and urged, “Let us stop disputes and fights, fulfill our duties as human beings, and cooperate with each other.”

In her congratulatory speech, Sri Lanka’s Minister of Religious and Cultural Affairs, Bidura Wickramanayake, said, “HWPL’s dedication to achieving peace has laid the foundation for a more harmonious world,” and added, “People and institutions tirelessly working toward the common goal of ending wars and promoting understanding between nations are truly inspiring.”

As a result of HWPL’s peace efforts, a media training program to enhance public awareness of peace will be conducted in East Timor this year.

Otello Ote, Chairman of the East Timor Press Council, announced, “We have signed an agreement with HWPL to implement peace journalism education. I am proud to share this news,” adding, “This partnership underscores our joint dedication to promoting freedom of press and the independence of media institutions. This year, the East Timor Press Council will continue to support HWPL’s efforts for the sustainable development of institutional peace based on intercultural dialogue and understanding.”

Beopsan, the Head Monk of Jogyejong of Korean Buddhism, who has been participating in interreligious dialogue for nine years, emphasized the importance of peace activities by religious leaders, including comparative studies of scriptures, stating, “Interreligious dialogue and understanding can find answers in the religious alliance office. The roots of religions are one, and we realize that the meaning is truly of noble value.”

The conclusion of the ceremony was adorned with diverse performances depicting the journey of peace. Among the performances was a session interpreting the content of 38 articles of 10 clauses of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW) through performance, along with portraying the paradise with peace adorned with flowers.

Meanwhile, the DPCW, composed of 38 articles and 10 clauses, was drafted by international legal experts from 15 countries. The declaration addresses principles and methods for preventing, resolving, and establishing a peaceful international society, clearly delineating the roles of individuals, societies, and nations to end wars.