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American Clergy Bring Peace Message to Togo
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
Eight American Christian leaders arrived from Benin at Hila Condji, on the Benin-Togo border on November 13, to deliver the UPF peace message in eight locations around the country. They were accompanied by the Sub-Region West Africa 1 leader, Rev. Zinsou Paterne.
After a welcome ceremony at the border organized by the traditional chiefs, the prefect of the region, the mayor, and some Ambassadors for Peace, the delegation left for the capital, Lomé, where they had dinner. Those who were scheduled to speak at events in the interior of the country left for their different cities after dinner.
On November 14, a rally took place in each city as arranged. After the rallies, the participants and visiting clergymen and women did not want to separate. Everybody was very happy and expressed great joy. In each city, the government was represented by the prefect, with the authorization of the Minister of Territorial Administration at the national level. Many political and religious leaders attended the events.
Afterwards, those who had gone to other parts of Togo returned to Lomé. The following morning, the Americans Rev. Paterne, some traditional chiefs, Ambassadors for Peace, and the President of UPF-Togo were received by the Prime Minister of Togo. The meeting was very warm with a friendly atmosphere and lasted for 90 minutes.
Here are some impressions the American clergy:
Rev. Ellis May III: "Togo is a fascinating country with warm and vibrant people. If I was doing a movie about culture with its many variations, Togo would be one of the first to be presented."
Rev. William Revely: "The people were wonderful, very friendly, courteous and kind. The reception was great, and I was made to feel special."
Minister Ahmon Mann: "Togo is a good place to start healing, with the wonderful partnership that started between UPF and Africa."
Bishop C. Phillip Johnson: "The participation by the religious and political communities was outstanding."
Bishop Donovan Rivers: "Togo is a country that I would like to help. The problems are many; people deserve to have health care, running water and drinking water. My goal is to help the people of Togo."
Bishop Rufus Okunubi: "The trips to the conference locations were exhausting, but it was impressive because I had the opportunity to deal with Muslim leaders. That was a special experience."
Pastor Cabbagestalk Jr.: "I was really impressed by the many people that I preached to when I was there."
Rev. Emma Lofting: "The sisters and brothers expressed their hearts to us, especially brother Raphael, who shared his home with us. Since our travel had been lengthy, what could be a better expression of love than that! Peace and blessings to all. I will remember the faces of people as they listened to the speech, particularly one of the attendees who wept."
To read a message delivered at UPF peace rallies, click here.