Montevideo, Uruguay - For the Global Peace Tour, UPF organized three events to communicate a new vision of leadership based on universal values and to share best practices for creating a world in which the people of each region, race, nationality, culture, and religion can live together in peace. After an explanation of the original causes of conflict, speakers discussed working together for peace transcending inequalities and divisions, promoting prosperity as one human family under God. Directly related to these efforts is a dedication to achieve the UN Millennium Development Goals.
The first event was a program on March 20 at the Ex Quinta de Berro National Historical Monument. The invocation was given by Prof. Susana Bastarrica, Founder and President of Feng Shui in the United Nations Staff Recreation Council and organizer of the Peace Vigil. The main message was given by the Rev. Dong Mo Shin, Continental Director of UPF-Latin America and the Caribbean. Performers included the Mariachis in Concert of Antoine, the Air Force Band, the “Blandengues de Artigas” folklore group, the vocalist Mrs. Noelia Méndez, and other distinguished groups.
The admission fee was a package of non-perishable food, all of which was donated to the Red Cross of Uruguay.
The second event consisted of a Leadership Conference on March 21. The theme was "Toward a New Paradigm of Leadership and Good Governance for Peace and Development in the Americas." All the participants had the honor of receiving a certificate as an Ambassador for Peace. The conference placed emphasis on leadership that is innovative, principled, and effective in solving global problems. Guided by the principle of "living for the good of the whole," representatives of governments, intergovernmental organizations, faith-based organizations, the private sector, and civil society need to work together for peace and human development.
The invocation was offered by the Rev. Raivata Das, Director of the Hare Krishna of Uruguay. The principal speakers were Rev. Dong Mo Shin and the former First Lady, Mrs. Graciela Rompani de Pacheco, speaking on Solidarity in Leadership. Col. Alberto Quintana talked about the work of the Red Cross of Uruguay, Lic. Jesús González explained the mission of Ambassadors for Peace, Prof. Solange Vignali Beltrán lectured on the Family as the School of True Love, and Master Raúl Rey Banegas concluded with a presentation on the Principles and Leadership for Good Governance and Peace.
To culminate this cycle, a full day of voluntary service took place on March 22 at the Red Cross of Uruguay. Volunteers painted approximately 200 square meters of the side walls of the atrium, sanded and varnished 40 wooden columns, and cleaned up undergrowth and fallen branches and leaves. Youths of different ages, representing diverse social youth groups, experienced how voluntary altruistic service adds value to society and brings people together in an effective social force for peace.
For the keynote address and more information about the peace tour, click here.
