Panevezys, Lithuania - UPF-Lithuania in partnership with the local NGO “The Brotherhood of January 13th” convened a meeting in Panevezys, on November 25 on the theme “The Significance of the Family for Individuals and Society.”
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The meeting opened with an invocation given by a local bishop who respects the brotherhood for their dedication to the country and the local people in this part of north-central Lithuania. A member of the city council, Mrs. Gema Umbrasiene, introduced the topic. She is active in the field of education and solving issues of adolescents who have difficulties adjusting to society. An NGO leader who is working with children from troubled families spoke about their work.
Then a local Jewish community leader, the chairwoman of a national minorities association, talked about family traditions in their communities. They were followed by the UPF presentation on "The Family as the School of Love."
The event ended with a concert by a local ensemble. The program set the stage for future cooperation with those organizations.
Note: January 13, 1991 was a landmark date in Lithuania's achieving independence from the Soviet Union.