HARMONY IN SAMOA: INTERFAITH VIGIL ILLUMINATES HOPE FOR PEACE IN ISRAEL AND PALESTINE
Attendees of the Candlelight Vigil for Israel and Palestine (Photo: Youth & Students For Peace Samoa)
In a moving demonstration of solidarity and a call for peace, the Universal Peace Federation (UPF) and the International Association of Youth and Students for Peace (IAYSP) organized the "Pacific Peoples Prayer for Peace—Candlelight Vigil for Israel and Palestine" in Samoa. The event, held at the Government Prayer House in Palisi, brought together individuals from diverse religious backgrounds, united by a common goal of promoting peace in the conflict-ridden regions of Israel and Palestine.
Against the backdrop of the profound trauma caused by the conflict, religious leaders and advocates from Christianity, Islam, Bahai, and other faiths convened to share their perspectives on achieving lasting peace. Emphasizing that peace starts from within, speakers reflected on the devastating impact of the loss of innocent lives, urging a collective commitment to renounce violence and actions that perpetuate hate and revenge.
The founders of the UPF, Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon and Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon, highlighted the crucial role of faith leaders in promoting global peace during a United Nations forum in 2000. In October 2023, UPF International released an official statement, reinforcing the call for leaders of every faith to work towards a world free from violence and suffering.
The event commenced with a touching gesture as participants penned messages of hope and condolences on a large paper for the victims in Gaza, the West Bank, and Israel. A symbolic "water ceremony" further emphasized the harmony of religions, acknowledging both their uniqueness and common destiny. Two youth members recited powerful poems—one from a young war victim sharing a painful experience, and the other written by Dr. Sun Myung Moon at the age of 15, underscoring the importance of forgiveness and love, even in the face of adversity.
The climax of the evening was a candlelit prayer vigil, where attendees from different faiths prayed in unison, seeking divine guidance during these challenging times. Lani Alo's song, 'Tua i manu,' resonated in the air as the president of IAYSP-Oceania led the attendees in prayer, creating a poignant atmosphere of hope and unity.
Initiated by Tooa Brown, the "Pacific Prayer for Peace: Candlelight Vigil for Israel and Palestine'' received support from the IAYSP and UPF. Gratitude was extended to all attendees and religious leaders who, even if unable to be physically present, sent messages of unwavering support for the cause of peace. UPF International concluded on an optimistic note, expressing hope that, with the help of God, faith leaders can offer a glimmer of hope for an end to violence and suffering, paving the way for lasting peace in Israel and Palestine.