Bogor, Indonesia—More than 50 people gathered at the Hotel Pesona Anggraini on November 6, 2015 for a family education seminar on the theme, “Building Harmonious Families–Our Shared Responsibility,” organized by UPF-Indonesia. Among the participants were Ambassadors for Peace and representatives of different religious organizations.
Dr. Payaman Simanjuntak, a senior adviser of UPF-Indonesia and vice-chairman of the Indonesia Peace Council, opened the seminar with welcoming remarks. Mrs. Ursula McLackland, secretary general of UPF-Asia gave presentations on UPF’s principles of peace and philosophy on the family. The participants engaged in a stimulating question and answer session that followed. Mr. Alfred Forno, who was recently appointed as the new secretary general of UPF-Indonesia, served as emcee.
The program also included ice-breakers, group discussions, games, and cultural performances, prepared by the participants.
The three-day seminar concluded with a Pure Love Pledge, in which the married couples promised to keep fidelity within marriage, and the unmarried participants remain abstinent until marriage.
In their reflections, many of the participants expressed their desire to work with UPF on raising awareness about and strengthening family values in their communities and Indonesia. Several participants offered to arrange similar programs at their organizations in the future.
Reflections from participants:
“This content is so amazing, as it helps develop my knowledge and give [me] new insight into the importance of family values.”
Harry Sutanto, entrepreneur
“UPF should continuously conduct this kind of seminar until the goal of world peace is achieved.”
Ir. Rr. Herawaty Rinto Paeran, peace activist
“All leaders and decision makers should attend [this seminar]. We,[participants], should practically implement the contents taught in this seminar in society.”
Budi Totoraharjo, entrepreneur