Accra, Ghana—Commemorating the UN International Day of Families on this 15th day of May 2015, the Universal Peace Federation of Ghana congratulates all families of its members and Ambassadors for Peace in Ghana and elsewhere.
UPF teaches that marriage and family are the cornerstone of peace, and, as we know, family decline and breakdown lead to social and national decline.
To renew our minds once again on our stand concerning families, let us review the following statement by UPF:
First, Universal Peace Federation acknowledges that the family is a microcosm of the global community. If the world is to finally come to an era of sustainable peace and harmony among civilizations, that peace must be founded on this basic, most intimate social unit of humankind. In other words, the family is the central building block of society, as well as being an instrument for peace and reconciliation.
Second, the family is universal. Regardless of race, ethnicity, nationality and religious affiliations, we are all members of families. Most importantly, the family is the school of love and ethics. Through experiences in our families we learn to embrace and value all relationships in our wider human family: with friends, neighbors, coworkers, colleagues and strangers.
Third, marriage, parenting and the family are the basis of human development and the core institutions for education in character, ethics, social relationships and citizenship. Strong, healthy, loving parents and families help protect society from the moral decline of its youth, the increase in crime, drug abuse and corruption, as well as the spread of diseases such as AIDS. In addition, they can help break down the age-old resentments that have fueled religious, tribal and civil conflict.
Fourth, throughout history the family has experienced economic and social unrest, and its adaptability is now being threatened by a wide range of social, economic, cultural and political developments. UPF chapters around the world are focusing on projects to overcome poverty and social exclusion within families, and has been mindful to include underprivileged or marginalized groups in its programs. UPF includes a wide representation of the various faith groups in its policies and projects.
Fifth, lasting peace is secured not merely through laws, backed by the power of government enforcement, but by a rising awareness of our universal solidarity as one human family, brothers and sisters who share a common spiritual and moral heritage. “We are one family under God.”
In this noble mission, let us all be more committed and dedicated to making our families a God-centered home.