Quito, Ecuador - Young people from various religious backgrounds talked about their experiences and activities promoting peace at a round-table discussion on September 18 in commemoration of the International Day of Peace.
Young people shared their insights about how to draw upon the essential character of each religion to promote peace in a discussion moderated by Sor. Lucila Lema, a Catholic nun:
- Mr. Edison Reatiqui, Catholic Church
- Miss Mónica Mena, Anglican Church
- Mr. Javier Cuchipe Díaz, Protestant Church
- Mr. Galo Jacho, Taoism
- Econ. Elsa Simba, Brahma Kumaris (Hinduism)
Each participant made an impassioned appeal for peace, along with a brief explanation of their religious teaching on topics such as the reality of God's existence, the necessity of dialogue and unity among religions, inner peace as the foundation for peace on all levels, and how to counter tendencies toward selfishness.
Representatives of each religion answered penetrating questions from the audience. For example, one person asked the panelists their opinion about why many religions exist if there is only one God.
Other speakers included a delegate of the United Nations Development Fund for Women, Miss Gaia Pallecchi, who described the fund's work to promote a peaceful environment by empowering women and promoting gender equality. An official from the Ministry for the Environment explained the government's plan for promoting a culture of peace among young people.
The event at the Ecuador Municipal Association Hall began with one minute of silence followed by a solemn trumpet fanfare by soldiers from the Presidential Escort. Dr. Manuel Muños and Prof. Gladys Trujillo served as emcees, and Gen. Holger Santana gave the welcome address. Many positive congratulatory messages were received for the occasion. The UN Secretary-General's message was read by Pastor Cástulo Leiton and UPF's Statement by Miss Luz Sierra. Young musicians from different religions expressed their heart of peace with excellent performances.
The audience included an advisor to the Minister of Agriculture and delegates from the ministries of Justice, Sports, and the Environment. There were also people from political and academic fields as well as representatives of UN peacekeepers.
We truly appreciate all participants and supporters of this celebration who are working hard each day to promote world peace.