Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Santiago de Chile (Fides Service) -September 21, is the annual International Day of Peace established by the United Nations in 1981. In the week 16 - 20 running up to the recurrence the Santiago Spiritual Forum for Peace has organised a nationwide Day of Prayer for Peace in the World withvarious initiatives in Santiago de Chile and other cities with the slogan “On the International Day of Peace Peace…Let’s all make peace!”. The purpose, in keeping with Chile’s national theme of Reconciliation - the organisers say - is to encouarge people to identify situations of conflict with family, friends, superiors, colleagues, settle all differences and make peace.
These event will be celebrated in various places in different ways. Religious communities, groups, assocations of various traditions are encouraged to hold a “Community Prayer for Peace” in keeping with their own customs but aware that all are praying for the same intention: peace in the world. “Prayer or Gesture for Peace in the world of Education Centres” (schools of all grades): Centres with pupils and teachers of different faiths are encouraged to make the event ecumenical or interreligious. These dfifferent events will have in common the unifying element of the reading of a Declaration for Peace in the World.
The central ceremony of Prayer for World Peace will take place on 20 September at the Catholic University of Santiago. Representatives of all the different religions and spiritual traditions present in Chile will form groups and pray in their own manner. The meeting will close with the reading of a Declaration for Peace in the World. (RZ) (Agenzia Fides 15/9/2005 righe 20 parole 288)
