Yamoussoukro, Cote d'Ivoire - On January 22 the peace campaign in Côte d’Ivoire reached a second step in Yamoussoukro, the political capital of Côte d’Ivoire. It happened in a very delicate occasion, as the country is passing through a very serious crisis after the presidential elections on November 28, 2010. The country has two proclaimed presidents, one of which is backed by the international community — the one who was actually elected and the former president, who lost but continues in his position supported by the armed forces.
Yamoussoukro was chosen to hold a round of the campaign because some years ago the speaking tour by US clergy was very successful there.
Despite all difficulties including lack of transportation days before, due a call for a strike by the opposition, the ceremony took place in an evangelical church, the temple of the Soon Returning Jesus Christ.
In the afternoon five Christian leaders who answered positively joined the conference with members of their communities, a total of 75 people. After the welcoming address given by the main pastor, each pastor introduced himself. The Secretary General of the local UPF chapter presented a lecture about “The Need for an Interfaith Council at the UN.” The lecture was very well received by the pastors and the audience. At the end of the ceremony, some mentioned that it was the first time they heard such a message.
The evangelical churches have been very critical about UPF’s founder, Rev. Sun Myung Moon; they have refused to work with his organizations for a long time. But with the current trend toward interfaith harmony, the glass has been broken and the five clergymen will be trained to participate in future campaigns.
Their interest was increased when all of them were appointed as Ambassadors for Peace. It was with pride that they received their Ambassador for Peace Certificate.
At the close of the ceremony, an interfaith prayer was offered by all attendees for peace in the world and in Côte d’Ivoire.