The Universal Peace Federation-Canada re-launched its series of monthly forums in Toronto with a special gathering on April 12. The purpose of the gathering was to emphasize the core purpose of UPF, broaden attendance at meetings, and introduce the Global Peace Festival to be held in Ottawa in October.
The meeting was well attended. There were more than thirty guests representing many faiths.
Dr. Hoosein Auckbaraullee, UPF Canada Central District Co-Director, gave some welcoming remarks and introduced everyone present. Several of the participants present also gave greetings at various points during the proceedings.
Mr. Qamrul Khanson gave the keynote speech entitled “What the Universal Peace Federation means to me.” He spoke about the importance of achieving internal peace and uniting with others, and acknowledged that the UPF offers a forum for interreligious dialogue and cooperation. Mr. Khanson is one of the UPF’s most consistent and active members. His comments were very well received.
Rev. Mitch Dixon gave a presentation on the purpose and objectives of the Universal Peace Federation.
A video introducing the Global Peace Festival was shown, and Rev. Katsumi Kambashi spoke about plans for the upcoming program. The participants then broke up into three groups to discuss what each group could do to help make it a success. At the end of the group meetings, a reporter from each group summarized the discussion.
Mr. Nablus from the Filipino community stated that the community would organize at least two buses of participants to attend the event in Ottawa. The community could also organize one or two sports teams as well as cultural performers. The Muslim community offered to participate in sports and cultural events. The women’s group also offered to participate.
Rev. Stoyan Tadin gave a call to action. He encouraged each group intending to participate broaden their thinking about opportunities for outreach and fundraising. Lilly Tadin closed with a message of encouragement and offered the full support of the Women’s Federation for World Peace.
The event closed with a prayer and a group photo. Everyone shared a meal after the meeting.