INTERFAITH EFFORT HIGHLIGHTS THE INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PEACE AND NON-VIOLENCE
Pittsburgh, PA—(ENEWSPF)—September 17, 2012. The International Day of Peace, observed globally every year on September 21st, has a history of positive influences and peaceful gatherings throughout the world. This year, the Pittsburgh observance will highlight the need to curb violence especially among youth and to initiate programs and events that stress justice, non-violence and peace as everyday actions. The day will follow the United Nations’ theme of “Sustainable Peace for a Sustainable Future” and the UN’s call for a global ceasefire.
On Friday, September 21st, there will be a noon-time rally against violence in the Allegheny County Courthouse Courtyard. This will feature remarks from Pittsburgh Chief of Police, Nate Harper, and local anti-violence activists.
There will also be a reading of names and lighting of candles for each victim of violence in this past year. A release of doves to honor the families and victims of violence is to symbolize an expression of hope over our city for an end of all violence.
At East Liberty Presbyterian Church, Penn and So. Highland Ave., beginning at 7:00 PM, there will be an international flag ceremony with 195 nation flags, a blessing of the Peace Pole inscribed with the universal invocation, “May Peace Prevail on Earth” and an intrafaith service featuring various religious traditions.
As well, East Liberty Presbyterian Church (ELPC) will be open the entire day for a 24-Hour Peace Vigil between the hours of 12:01AM Friday through midnight Friday in the ELPC Chapel. Individuals, families and groups are welcome to walk the Labyrinth and share in this celebration through meditation, peaceful contemplation or peace celebration. All are invited to attend.
There are more than 1200 centers for spiritual worship in Pittsburgh. The International Day of Peace offers an excellent opportunity to stress peace, justice and non-violence as well as interfaith cooperation. Submit your peace related events during the 10 day celebration of International Day Of Peace: September 21-30. Have a peace party; organize a dialogue, invite a speaker. Have a peace workshop. Conduct a vigil. Observe a minute of silence at noon on Peace Day. We will assist you and help promote your event in any way possible. Send your events to [email protected].
For further information, please visit the International Day of Peace website at http://www.internationaldayofpeace.org/ or contact Sister Barbara Finch at 412-716-9750 or George D’Angelo at 412 849-3600.
