Take some time today to reflect on how we can build peace in our communities.

Did you know that the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution in 2001 declaring September 21 of each year as the International Day of Peace?  Their mission:

To encourage the observation of a worldwide, grassroots 24-hour vigil for peace and nonviolence on the International Day of Peace, 21 September, in every house of worship and place of spiritual practice, by all religious and spiritually based groups and individuals, and by all men, women and children who seek peace in the world.

Here are a few exciting Peace Day initiatives!

Global Minute of Silence at Noon: Since its inception, the minute of silence has been the universal observance that allows all of humanity to participate on this special day.  An inspirational musical slide show is also available that will help inspire the global community.  Please invite your community to the minute of silence.

Peace Concert in Cuba: Colombian superstar Juanes will bring the “Peace Without Borders” concert to Havana’s Plaza de la Revolucion, joined by Spanish singer-songwriter Miguel Bose and Puerto Rican merengue artist Olga Tañon! Cubans such as singer-songwriter Silvio Rodriguez and salsa stars Los Van Van also are scheduled to perform.

“Million Minutes for Peace” Campaign Online and on Hallmark Channel
Odyssey Networks, the nation’s largest interfaith coalition of groups dedicated to building bridges of understanding through media, has created a multimedia campaign in support of the International Day of Peace, Sept 21.

The centerpiece of the campaign — “A Million Minutes for Peace” — is an online invitation to pause for one minute at noon on September 21 and pray for peace. Odyssey intends to collect a million pledges and to present a list of the signatories to the UN. Please take the pledge and inform people and organizations on your email list about the campaign. Encourage them to take the pledge at (www.odysseynetworks.org)—it requires only a few minutes.