Peace Education
UPF-Zambia Holds Workshop for IAPD Members
Written by Fabrice Djimadoum, UPF-Zambia
Wednesday, June 27, 2018
Lusaka, Zambia—UPF-Zambia held a one-day orientation workshop for committee members of the Interreligious Association for Peace and Development (IAPD) on June 27, 2018. More than 30 religious leaders from different faiths attended the workshop. The distinguished guest at the meeting was Gen. Malimba Masheke, former prime minister of Zambia and chair of UPF-Zambia.
Before the opening of the workshop, a video introducing UPF was shown, followed by an explanation on current affairs and UPF functions given by Rev. Rudolf Faerber, UPF-Zambia secretary general. In his explanation, he highlighted the endeavors of religions during the course of history to foster peace and salvation for humanity. Religions need to unite to complement their efforts to fulfill their common goal, he said. He further explained that the vision of the founders of UPF is that to be successful, the United Nations needs to embrace God.
The workshop started with an opening prayer given by Father Peter Chanda from Married Priests Now, followed by an introduction of some IAPD committee members present.
In his welcoming remarks, General Masheke told the religious leaders that we have an opportunity to contribute to the peace of our nation. He reminded them that they are carrying a huge responsibility upon their shoulders in helping the continent of Africa to become better. General Masheke urged all participants to make a great impact by spreading the news of peace across the country. Finally, he ended his brief welcoming remarks by encouraging all to be serious and sincere during the workshop.
The welcome was followed up by some remarks from the president of the Zambia chapter of the Family Federation for Peace and Unification, Rev. David Isaac Phiri. He spoke about why some religious leaders feel tension in their hearts when they gather together with leaders of other faiths and reminded the audience that there is no development without peace in the nation or society. Therefore, he said, everyone must learn to practice tolerance: understanding one another and also loving one another in order for religion to bring peace and development.
During the workshop, the chairman of IAPD, Bishop David Masupa, announced the grand mufti as the appointed secretary general of IAPD. Ample time was used to review the proposed draft of the IAPD constitution. All participants were allowed to air their views and give contributions pertaining to the articles in the constitution. The final draft of the constitution was reached by unanimous consensus and will be ready to be tendered for registration.
UPF-Zambia sponsored the lunch and refreshments. At the end of the workshop a group photo was taken.
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