Lusaka, Zambia - UPF-Zambia observed the UN International Day of Peace, September 21, with prayers for peace, reading peace messages, and offering a toast for peace. The event took place at the Peace Embassy in Lusaka.
Approximately 50 people attended in the celebration, including students, teachers, members of the clergy, business people, and Ambassadors for Peace. Speakers included the Chairman of UPF-Zambia Rt. Hon. Gen. Malimba N. Masheke, Patriarch Emmanuel Milingo, Secretary General of UPF-Zambia Rev. Rudolf Faerber, and Mr. Lawrence Banda, Director of Education of UPF-Zambia.
In his opening remarks, Gen. Masheke emphasized the importance of recognizing fallen heroes who fought to liberate their countries from unprecedented justice with the hopes of achieving peace. “They fought for the sake of others,” he said, urging the youth to jealously guard the peace they enjoy and participate in activities that mitigate violence. Calling attention to the theme of this year's Day of Peace, “Youth, Peace and Development,” he said that young people play crucial roles in promoting a stable environment, development, and nonviolence.
Gen. Malimba emphasized the importance of practicing of the ideals of peace, respect for human rights, and solidarity across the boundaries of nationality, culture, religion, and civilization. He described these as fundamental to a sustainable peace in communities, nations, and the world.
Then Patriarch Milingo referred to the youth as leaders of today and tomorrow. He urged them to conduct themselves morally in line with the will of God and refrain from sex before marriage, drinking, and smoking. He stressed that self-control is the first task of those who want to lead their nation to peace.
Rev. Faerber read an excerpt from the Peace Messages of UPF Founder Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon and showed a video entitled “You Are Not Forgotten,” which is about the Little Angels Children's Folk Ballet from South Korea. Their mission is to dance and sing for peace, and they are giving performances in the 16 nations that sent peacekeeping troops to defend their country during the Korean War.
Following a toast to peace, Rev. Faerber led everyone in three cheers: for world peace, peace in Zambia, and peace in society.