Religious Youth Service 2013
•Download as PPTX, PDF•
1 like•2,976 views
Service-learning projects of the Universal Peace Federation in 2013 in Estonia, Georgia, India, Israel, Nepal, Pakistan, Russia, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, Thailand, and the US. Through living together and providing altruistic service in a community, participants demonstrate that it is possible for our global human family to come together in peace for our mutual well being.
Report
Share
Report
Share
Recommended
Activities of The Young Explorers' Institute for Social Service
A civil society of Kolkata, India for the development of youths.
Holy Family Ex-Students Association - Annual Report January - December 2007
Holy Family Ex-Students Association - Annual Report January - December 2007
Holy Family Ex-Students Association - Annual Report January - December 2008
Holy Family Ex-Students Association - Annual Report January - December 2008
Recommended
Activities of The Young Explorers' Institute for Social Service
A civil society of Kolkata, India for the development of youths.
Holy Family Ex-Students Association - Annual Report January - December 2007
Holy Family Ex-Students Association - Annual Report January - December 2007
Holy Family Ex-Students Association - Annual Report January - December 2008
Holy Family Ex-Students Association - Annual Report January - December 2008
Bering Strait Crossing Proposal
An overview of the vision in the US and Russia for a Bering Strait Crossing going back more than 100 years, including adventurous swimmers and kiteboarders, engineering challenges, architectural concept drawings, and comparisons with notable canals, tunnels, and transcontinental railway systems that have transformed commerce, transportation, history and culture.
Family Values and Peace
In order to have citizens capable of creating peace in the world, we need stable families that instill values and capacities for peacebuilding. Marriage and the family serve a unique and essential purpose for optimum human development. Research is showing that straying from that purpose weakens the family, increasing disadvantages for the next generation and the future. Clarifying the value of the family will help us strengthen this essential building block of peace.
UPF Peacebuilding in the Americas
An overview of the work of the Universal Peace Federation, with a special focus on the Americas.
On local, national, and global levels, interreligious councils provide a platform for people of diverse faiths to contribute their wisdom and work effectively for peace alongside representatives of government, business, and civil society.
UPF acknowledges the need for careful and measurable use of enforcement such as political, military, and civil power to sustain lasting peace. At the same time we strongly emphasize the pursuit of internal solutions that are essential to peacebuilding. UPF has been a leading exponent of “track two” diplomacy, with particular emphasis on the role and responsibility of religious and spiritual leaders to transcend historical self-interest and pursue the ideal of “One family under God.”
UPF is an NGO in Special Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations. We support and promote the work of the United Nations and the achievement of sustainable development goals.
Marriage, parenting, and the family are the foundations of sustainable human development and the building blocks of society. Educational programs present the personal and social benefits of marriage, promote a marriage-friendly culture, teach relationship skills, and encourage spiritual growth through relationships.
UPF's leadership conferences and seminars focus on the urgent need for new vision and leadership based on core values and universal principles of peacebuilding.
Service-learning programs bring together youth from different cultures and religions in order to promote mutual understanding and respect. Participants serve a community in need, visit religious and historic sites, and learn communication and team-building skills.
Interfaith Harmony Week 2015
Observances by the Universal Peace Federation and partner organizations of World Interfaith Harmony Week 2013
World peace can be fully accomplished only when the wisdom and efforts of the world’s religious leaders are combined cooperatively and respectfully with the endeavors of national political leaders. Absent the recognition of spiritual principles, the world has drifted increasingly toward analyses and prescriptions that are materialistic and secular in nature. In so doing, we have lost sight of the profound wisdom to be found in humanity’s spiritual heritage.
Global institutions must be built on a foundation that takes into
Introducing Summit 2014
Introduction to UPF's World Summit 2014 on "Peace, Security and Human Development"
2011 UPF Overview
Highlights of Universal Peace Federation's work around the world in 2011, including seminars, forums, service projects, and observances of UN days such as the International Day of Peace, International Day of Families, Women's Day, and World Interfaith Harmony Week.
On local, national, and global levels, interreligious councils provide a platform for people of diverse faiths to contribute their wisdom and work effectively for peace alongside representatives of government, business, and civil society.
UPF acknowledges the need for careful and measurable use of enforcement such as political, military, and civil power to sustain lasting peace. At the same time we strongly emphasize the pursuit of internal solutions that are essential to peacebuilding. UPF has been a leading exponent of “track two” diplomacy, with particular emphasis on the role and responsibility of religious and spiritual leaders to transcend historical self-interest and pursue the ideal of “One family under God.”
UPF is an NGO in Special Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations. We support and promote the work of the United Nations and the achievement of sustainable development goals.
Marriage, parenting, and the family are the foundations of sustainable human development and the building blocks of society. Educational programs present the personal and social benefits of marriage, promote a marriage-friendly culture, teach relationship skills, and encourage spiritual growth through relationships.
UPF's leadership conferences and seminars focus on the urgent need for new vision and leadership based on core values and universal principles of peacebuilding.
Service-learning programs bring together youth from different cultures and religions in order to promote mutual understanding and respect. Participants serve a community in need, visit religious and historic sites, and learn communication and team-building skills.
UPF Annual Report 2012
Draft annual report of activities by UPF chapters in 103 nations, including leadership conferences, peace and security forums, UN-related activities, and service-learning and humanitarian work.
On local, national, and global levels, interreligious councils provide a platform for people of diverse faiths to contribute their wisdom and work effectively for peace alongside representatives of government, business, and civil society.
UPF acknowledges the need for careful and measurable use of enforcement such as political, military, and civil power to sustain lasting peace. At the same time we strongly emphasize the pursuit of internal solutions that are essential to peacebuilding. UPF has been a leading exponent of “track two” diplomacy, with particular emphasis on the role and responsibility of religious and spiritual leaders to transcend historical self-interest and pursue the ideal of “One family under God.”
UPF is an NGO in Special Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations. We support and promote the work of the United Nations and the achievement of sustainable development goals.
Marriage, parenting, and the family are the foundations of sustainable human development and the building blocks of society. Educational programs present the personal and social benefits of marriage, promote a marriage-friendly culture, teach relationship skills, and encourage spiritual growth through relationships.
UPF's leadership conferences and seminars focus on the urgent need for new vision and leadership based on core values and universal principles of peacebuilding.
Service-learning programs bring together youth from different cultures and religions in order to promote mutual understanding and respect. Participants serve a community in need, visit religious and historic sites, and learn communication and team-building skills.
UN Day of Families 2012
Observances of the UN International Day of Families organized by chapters of the Universal Peace Federation, May 2012. Theme: "Ensuring Work Family Balance." Affirmed by civilizations and religions for millennia, the family forms the basis of natural procreation, lineage, the honoring of parents and grandparents, and our development as spiritual and rational beings.
UPF regards the family as the school of love and the foundation for a stable society. Marriage between husband and wife lays the foundation for the family. The father and the mother complement one another biologically and psychologically as they raise their children. The family has both private and public functions, promoting both social cohesion and intergenerational solidarity. The love we receive at home provides the framework for fulfilling our potential as human beings.
Social cohesion is learned in the family where members attend to the well-being of one another. Likewise, when families contribute to the well-being of their community, the community prospers, offering benefit and protection for families in return.
The importance of grandparents in promoting intergenerational solidarity cannot be underestimated. They are the repositories of information about the ancestors and the conveyers of tradition and culture. The bond between grandparents and grandchildren is second in emotional power only to that between parents and children. Together, the grandparents, parents, and children form a link between the past, the present and the future.
Every culture throughout the world affirms the central role of the family in promoting social integration, intergenerational solidarity, and a healthy society. Religious traditions such as Confucianism, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity, Islam, and Hinduism emphasize the sacred and social significance of the family.
The purpose and ideal of marriage and the family center on procreation, raising children within a committed and faithful relationship of the natural parents, and the development of love and spiritual well-being. However, UPF also acknowledges that no one attains this ideal without education and a supportive social, ethical, political, and cultural environment. For this reason, UPF advocates the development of educational programs that help individuals gain a better understanding of the virtues and skills necessary for the most fulfilling relationships and happy, thriving marriages and families.
Africa Day 2014 events
Programs commemorating Africa Day, May 25, 2014, organized by the Universal Peace Federation and partners.
World Summit 2014
Universal Peace Federation's World Summit 2014, Seoul, Korea, August 9-13, 2014 on "Peace, Security and Development" with sessions on the Americas, Europe and Eurasia, the Middle East and Africa, the Asia-Pacific region, and the relevance of religion for peace and development.
UPF Annual Report 2014
Highlights of the Universal Peace Federation's activities around the world in 2014.
On local, national, and global levels, interreligious councils provide a platform for people of diverse faiths to contribute their wisdom and work effectively for peace alongside representatives of government, business, and civil society.
UPF acknowledges the need for careful and measurable use of enforcement such as political, military, and civil power to sustain lasting peace. At the same time we strongly emphasize the pursuit of internal solutions that are essential to peacebuilding. UPF has been a leading exponent of “track two” diplomacy, with particular emphasis on the role and responsibility of religious and spiritual leaders to transcend historical self-interest and pursue the ideal of “One family under God.”
UPF is an NGO in Special Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations. We support and promote the work of the United Nations and the achievement of sustainable development goals.
Marriage, parenting, and the family are the foundations of sustainable human development and the building blocks of society. Educational programs present the personal and social benefits of marriage, promote a marriage-friendly culture, teach relationship skills, and encourage spiritual growth through relationships.
UPF's leadership conferences and seminars focus on the urgent need for new vision and leadership based on core values and universal principles of peacebuilding.
Service-learning programs bring together youth from different cultures and religions in order to promote mutual understanding and respect. Participants serve a community in need, visit religious and historic sites, and learn communication and team-building skills.
International Day of Peace - UPF 2015 Highlights
United Nations International Day of Peace
UPF Highlights of 2015
16:9
International Women's Day 2014
The Universal Peace Federation upholds the essential value and central role of women in peacebuilding and human development.
UPF affirms the need for women to serve in leadership positions throughout the world in all sectors of society.
UPF recognizes the equal value of men and women. Their absolute value derives from a common origin, God. God is the origin of both men and women, and all of God’s creation manifests complementary masculine and feminine aspects.
Men and women are extensions and manifestations of God’s harmonious masculinity and femininity. The complementary relationship between men and women expresses the wholeness of human experience. Thus, there should be no gender discrimination but rather harmony of the sexes through love.
Throughout history, women have taken the leading role in cultivating families as the dwelling places of peace, love, and health in shaping the individual character of children, and in fostering harmonious social relationships. In the family, both father and mother are equally entitled to reverence and honor. The path toward establishing global peace begins with strengthening families.
The ideal of peace is at the core of all religions. Through dialogue and mutual understanding, there can be peace among religions, and peace among religions is a necessary prerequisite for world peace. Women can and should play a central role in promoting interfaith understanding and cooperation.
UPF emphasizes the essential importance of women in addressing issues of peace and development in all sectors, including politics, business, culture, and religion. Women must be encouraged and empowered to assume leadership roles in the resolution of conflict, peacebuilding, and sustainable development.
UPF supports the achievement of the United Nations' Millennium Development Goals, which include improved status, education, health, and physical well-being of women. Six of these eight goals are related to women; therefore, by uplifting the condition of women, the Millennium Development Goals will be advanced.
UPF World Summit 2013 Speakers
Excerpts of speeches at the World Summit 2013 of the Universal Peace Federation in Seoul, Korea, February 22-25, 2013
Interfaith Harmony Week 2013
Observances by the Universal Peace Federation and partner organizations of World Interfaith Harmony Week 2013
World peace can be fully accomplished only when the wisdom and efforts of the world’s religious leaders are combined cooperatively and respectfully with the endeavors of national political leaders. Absent the recognition of spiritual principles, the world has drifted increasingly toward analyses and prescriptions that are materialistic and secular in nature. In so doing, we have lost sight of the profound wisdom to be found in humanity’s spiritual heritage.
Global institutions must be built on a foundation that takes into account the full potential of the human being, not only as a political, economic, and social being, but also as a spiritual being with spiritual needs and a capacity for spiritual wisdom and insight. The legacy of the world’s great saints, prophets, sages, and spiritual leaders cannot be denied or discounted without ignoring what is most fundamental about the human being.
In too many ways the history of religion has been marked by narrow sectarianism, strife, and competitive struggle with other faiths, all to the detriment of the cherished goals and teachings of the founders and scriptures. This cannot continue. The need to eliminate corruption, selfishness, and bad governance applies not only to all nations but also to all of the world’s religions.
Lasting peace depends on cooperative partnerships between governments and religions, as well as NGOs and representatives of the private sector. The United Nations can benefit from a council of religious and spiritual leaders to bring broad vision and wisdom to the effort to address critical global problems. International conferences, publications, networking, and on-the-ground activism are mechanisms for interfaith cooperation and lay a foundation for spiritual renewal at the United Nations.
Women's Day 2011
Observances of UN International Women's Day 2011
The Universal Peace Federation upholds the essential value and central role of women in peacebuilding and human development.
UPF affirms the need for women to serve in leadership positions throughout the world in all sectors of society.
UPF recognizes the equal value of men and women. Their absolute value derives from a common origin, God. God is the origin of both men and women, and all of God’s creation manifests complementary masculine and feminine aspects.
Men and women are extensions and manifestations of God’s harmonious masculinity and femininity. The complementary relationship between men and women expresses the wholeness of human experience. Thus, there should be no gender discrimination but rather harmony of the sexes through love.
Throughout history, women have taken the leading role in cultivating families as the dwelling places of peace, love, and health in shaping the individual character of children, and in fostering harmonious social relationships. In the family, both father and mother are equally entitled to reverence and honor. The path toward establishing global peace begins with strengthening families.
The ideal of peace is at the core of all religions. Through dialogue and mutual understanding, there can be peace among religions, and peace among religions is a necessary prerequisite for world peace. Women can and should play a central role in promoting interfaith understanding and cooperation.
UPF emphasizes the essential importance of women in addressing issues of peace and development in all sectors, including politics, business, culture, and religion. Women must be encouraged and empowered to assume leadership roles in the resolution of conflict, peacebuilding, and sustainable development.
UPF supports the achievement of the United Nations' Millennium Development Goals, which include improved status, education, health, and physical well-being of women. Six of these eight goals are related to women; therefore, by uplifting the condition of women, the Millennium Development Goals will be advanced.
UN Day of Families 2014
Observances of the UN International Day of Families, May 15, 2014, with the theme "Families Matter for the Achievement of Development Goals."
The Universal Peace Federation affirms the value of the family as the core unit of society. The family has formed the basis for communities, societies and civilizations throughout the ages. Virtually all the world’s religions teach the sacred value of marriage and family. The family is the school of love. It is also the school of virtue, ethics and citizenship.
The cohesion and stability of the family are prerequisites for a healthy and stable society. Conversely, the breakdown of the family contributes to a wide range of social problems. By strengthening the family, we can build a stronger base of social capital that will enhance the overall quality of life for everyone.
The natural family is grounded in marriage, the cornerstone of the family. Children benefit from having loving parents, a mother and father, who are committed to the well-being of their sons and daughters. There is no greater joy and no greater responsibility than that of raising boys and girls to become mature, socially-engaged and successful men and women. This is the role and responsibility of parents and grandparents.
Traditional marriage and family are being challenged in a variety of ways at this time in history, by poverty, migration, displacement, urbanization, conflict, disease, etc. In addition, some question the value of traditional marriage and family. Others seek to redefine them. Despite these challenges, men and women the world over still aspire to build strong, loving, lasting marriages and, as parents, to raise children who prosper and flourish.
International Day of Peace 2012
Celebrations of the UN International Day of Peace, September 21, 2012, organized by chapters of the Universal Peace Federation. Theme: "Sustainable Peace for a Sustainable Future." Sustainable Peace...
This year, world leaders, together with civil society, local authorities and the private sector, met in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil for the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development to renew political commitment to long term sustainable development.
It is in the context of the Rio+20 Conference that “Sustainable Peace for a Sustainable Future” is the theme chosen for this year's observance of the International day of Peace.
There can be no sustainable future without a sustainable peace. Sustainable peace must be built on sustainable development.
...From Sustainable Development...
The root causes of many conflicts are directly related to or fuelled by valuable natural resources, such as diamonds, gold, oil, timber or water. Addressing the ownership, control and management of natural resources is crucial to maintaining security and restoring the economy in post-conflict countries.
Good natural resource management can play a central role in building sustainable peace in post-conflict societies.
...For a Sustainable Future
The International Day of Peace offers people globally a shared date to think about how, individually, they can contribute to ensuring that natural resources are managed in a sustainable manner, thus reducing potential for disputes, and paving the road to a sustainable future, the "Future We Want." The United Nations set the theme for this year's observance as Sustainable Peace for a Sustainable Future. Peace has its foundation in the quality of human character and human relationships. And it has been our shared moral and spiritual traditions that, throughout millennia, have taught us of our common origins, purpose and destiny. Lasting peace and the growth in solidarity among the whole human family comes from the recognition that we are all brothers and sisters. We are to live as one family under God. UPF calls upon the United Nations community, governments, and civil society to consider that the need for sustainable development, environmental stewardship, and social justice are but symptoms of a deeper human problem: we have not learned to live as one family, sharing this planet and caring for the natural world placed at our disposal by a loving Creator;
UPF affirms the value of democracy and free market economies. Corporations have a strong interest in promoting sustainable development and the development of a green economy because this is in everyone’s best interest.
UPF affirms that the family is the primary unit of society, the foundation of moral, spiritual, social, and political education. Families may be great allies in the effort to achieve sustainable development.
International Day of Peace - UPF 2008-2015 Highlights
United Nations International Day of Peace
UPF Highlights of 2008-2015
16:9
International Day of Peace 2014
Observances of the UN International Day of Peace, September 21, 2014 organized by the Universal Peace Federation in Albania, Argentina, Australia, Azerbaijan, Benin, Bolivia, Cambodia, Canada, Central African Republic, Colombia, Costa Rica, Denmark, DR Congo, Ecuador, Estonia, France, Gabon, Germany, Iceland, Indonesia, Israel, Italy, Japan, LIthuania, Malaysia, Marshall Islands, Moldova, Nepal, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Nigeria, Norway, Peru, Russia, San Marino, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, Trinidad & Tobago, and the US.
The theme for the International Day of Peace 2014 was "The Rights of Peoples to Peace."
Along with human rights, there are human responsibilities. In order for human rights to be honored, respected and practiced, each individual should appreciate and practice his or her own portion of responsibilities. Likewise, in order for "we the peoples" to enjoy the "right of peace" it is necessary for each of us to work to build a world of peace, that is, a world of mutual respect and cooperation that goes beyond barriers of religion, ethnicity, culture and nationality.
Marriage and family are the fundamental building blocks of society. When the family is healthy and stable, society becomes healthy and stable. When husband and wife love and respect one another, fully appreciative each one's value and each one's dignity, then respect for rights naturally follow. The family is the school of ethics and, in this capacity, the school of human rights. Through good parenting practices that underscore the value, dignity and rights of each and every human being, we move the world toward peace, one family at a time.
For many people of faith, human rights have their root and origin in our Creator. There are compelling arguments to suggest that the largely secularized understanding of human rights has its foundation in spiritual and religious understandings of human beings as inherently sacred, and each one equally valuable.
More Related Content
Viewers also liked
Bering Strait Crossing Proposal
An overview of the vision in the US and Russia for a Bering Strait Crossing going back more than 100 years, including adventurous swimmers and kiteboarders, engineering challenges, architectural concept drawings, and comparisons with notable canals, tunnels, and transcontinental railway systems that have transformed commerce, transportation, history and culture.
Family Values and Peace
In order to have citizens capable of creating peace in the world, we need stable families that instill values and capacities for peacebuilding. Marriage and the family serve a unique and essential purpose for optimum human development. Research is showing that straying from that purpose weakens the family, increasing disadvantages for the next generation and the future. Clarifying the value of the family will help us strengthen this essential building block of peace.
UPF Peacebuilding in the Americas
An overview of the work of the Universal Peace Federation, with a special focus on the Americas.
On local, national, and global levels, interreligious councils provide a platform for people of diverse faiths to contribute their wisdom and work effectively for peace alongside representatives of government, business, and civil society.
UPF acknowledges the need for careful and measurable use of enforcement such as political, military, and civil power to sustain lasting peace. At the same time we strongly emphasize the pursuit of internal solutions that are essential to peacebuilding. UPF has been a leading exponent of “track two” diplomacy, with particular emphasis on the role and responsibility of religious and spiritual leaders to transcend historical self-interest and pursue the ideal of “One family under God.”
UPF is an NGO in Special Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations. We support and promote the work of the United Nations and the achievement of sustainable development goals.
Marriage, parenting, and the family are the foundations of sustainable human development and the building blocks of society. Educational programs present the personal and social benefits of marriage, promote a marriage-friendly culture, teach relationship skills, and encourage spiritual growth through relationships.
UPF's leadership conferences and seminars focus on the urgent need for new vision and leadership based on core values and universal principles of peacebuilding.
Service-learning programs bring together youth from different cultures and religions in order to promote mutual understanding and respect. Participants serve a community in need, visit religious and historic sites, and learn communication and team-building skills.
Interfaith Harmony Week 2015
Observances by the Universal Peace Federation and partner organizations of World Interfaith Harmony Week 2013
World peace can be fully accomplished only when the wisdom and efforts of the world’s religious leaders are combined cooperatively and respectfully with the endeavors of national political leaders. Absent the recognition of spiritual principles, the world has drifted increasingly toward analyses and prescriptions that are materialistic and secular in nature. In so doing, we have lost sight of the profound wisdom to be found in humanity’s spiritual heritage.
Global institutions must be built on a foundation that takes into
Introducing Summit 2014
Introduction to UPF's World Summit 2014 on "Peace, Security and Human Development"
2011 UPF Overview
Highlights of Universal Peace Federation's work around the world in 2011, including seminars, forums, service projects, and observances of UN days such as the International Day of Peace, International Day of Families, Women's Day, and World Interfaith Harmony Week.
On local, national, and global levels, interreligious councils provide a platform for people of diverse faiths to contribute their wisdom and work effectively for peace alongside representatives of government, business, and civil society.
UPF acknowledges the need for careful and measurable use of enforcement such as political, military, and civil power to sustain lasting peace. At the same time we strongly emphasize the pursuit of internal solutions that are essential to peacebuilding. UPF has been a leading exponent of “track two” diplomacy, with particular emphasis on the role and responsibility of religious and spiritual leaders to transcend historical self-interest and pursue the ideal of “One family under God.”
UPF is an NGO in Special Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations. We support and promote the work of the United Nations and the achievement of sustainable development goals.
Marriage, parenting, and the family are the foundations of sustainable human development and the building blocks of society. Educational programs present the personal and social benefits of marriage, promote a marriage-friendly culture, teach relationship skills, and encourage spiritual growth through relationships.
UPF's leadership conferences and seminars focus on the urgent need for new vision and leadership based on core values and universal principles of peacebuilding.
Service-learning programs bring together youth from different cultures and religions in order to promote mutual understanding and respect. Participants serve a community in need, visit religious and historic sites, and learn communication and team-building skills.
UPF Annual Report 2012
Draft annual report of activities by UPF chapters in 103 nations, including leadership conferences, peace and security forums, UN-related activities, and service-learning and humanitarian work.
On local, national, and global levels, interreligious councils provide a platform for people of diverse faiths to contribute their wisdom and work effectively for peace alongside representatives of government, business, and civil society.
UPF acknowledges the need for careful and measurable use of enforcement such as political, military, and civil power to sustain lasting peace. At the same time we strongly emphasize the pursuit of internal solutions that are essential to peacebuilding. UPF has been a leading exponent of “track two” diplomacy, with particular emphasis on the role and responsibility of religious and spiritual leaders to transcend historical self-interest and pursue the ideal of “One family under God.”
UPF is an NGO in Special Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations. We support and promote the work of the United Nations and the achievement of sustainable development goals.
Marriage, parenting, and the family are the foundations of sustainable human development and the building blocks of society. Educational programs present the personal and social benefits of marriage, promote a marriage-friendly culture, teach relationship skills, and encourage spiritual growth through relationships.
UPF's leadership conferences and seminars focus on the urgent need for new vision and leadership based on core values and universal principles of peacebuilding.
Service-learning programs bring together youth from different cultures and religions in order to promote mutual understanding and respect. Participants serve a community in need, visit religious and historic sites, and learn communication and team-building skills.
UN Day of Families 2012
Observances of the UN International Day of Families organized by chapters of the Universal Peace Federation, May 2012. Theme: "Ensuring Work Family Balance." Affirmed by civilizations and religions for millennia, the family forms the basis of natural procreation, lineage, the honoring of parents and grandparents, and our development as spiritual and rational beings.
UPF regards the family as the school of love and the foundation for a stable society. Marriage between husband and wife lays the foundation for the family. The father and the mother complement one another biologically and psychologically as they raise their children. The family has both private and public functions, promoting both social cohesion and intergenerational solidarity. The love we receive at home provides the framework for fulfilling our potential as human beings.
Social cohesion is learned in the family where members attend to the well-being of one another. Likewise, when families contribute to the well-being of their community, the community prospers, offering benefit and protection for families in return.
The importance of grandparents in promoting intergenerational solidarity cannot be underestimated. They are the repositories of information about the ancestors and the conveyers of tradition and culture. The bond between grandparents and grandchildren is second in emotional power only to that between parents and children. Together, the grandparents, parents, and children form a link between the past, the present and the future.
Every culture throughout the world affirms the central role of the family in promoting social integration, intergenerational solidarity, and a healthy society. Religious traditions such as Confucianism, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity, Islam, and Hinduism emphasize the sacred and social significance of the family.
The purpose and ideal of marriage and the family center on procreation, raising children within a committed and faithful relationship of the natural parents, and the development of love and spiritual well-being. However, UPF also acknowledges that no one attains this ideal without education and a supportive social, ethical, political, and cultural environment. For this reason, UPF advocates the development of educational programs that help individuals gain a better understanding of the virtues and skills necessary for the most fulfilling relationships and happy, thriving marriages and families.
Africa Day 2014 events
Programs commemorating Africa Day, May 25, 2014, organized by the Universal Peace Federation and partners.
World Summit 2014
Universal Peace Federation's World Summit 2014, Seoul, Korea, August 9-13, 2014 on "Peace, Security and Development" with sessions on the Americas, Europe and Eurasia, the Middle East and Africa, the Asia-Pacific region, and the relevance of religion for peace and development.
UPF Annual Report 2014
Highlights of the Universal Peace Federation's activities around the world in 2014.
On local, national, and global levels, interreligious councils provide a platform for people of diverse faiths to contribute their wisdom and work effectively for peace alongside representatives of government, business, and civil society.
UPF acknowledges the need for careful and measurable use of enforcement such as political, military, and civil power to sustain lasting peace. At the same time we strongly emphasize the pursuit of internal solutions that are essential to peacebuilding. UPF has been a leading exponent of “track two” diplomacy, with particular emphasis on the role and responsibility of religious and spiritual leaders to transcend historical self-interest and pursue the ideal of “One family under God.”
UPF is an NGO in Special Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations. We support and promote the work of the United Nations and the achievement of sustainable development goals.
Marriage, parenting, and the family are the foundations of sustainable human development and the building blocks of society. Educational programs present the personal and social benefits of marriage, promote a marriage-friendly culture, teach relationship skills, and encourage spiritual growth through relationships.
UPF's leadership conferences and seminars focus on the urgent need for new vision and leadership based on core values and universal principles of peacebuilding.
Service-learning programs bring together youth from different cultures and religions in order to promote mutual understanding and respect. Participants serve a community in need, visit religious and historic sites, and learn communication and team-building skills.
International Day of Peace - UPF 2015 Highlights
United Nations International Day of Peace
UPF Highlights of 2015
16:9
International Women's Day 2014
The Universal Peace Federation upholds the essential value and central role of women in peacebuilding and human development.
UPF affirms the need for women to serve in leadership positions throughout the world in all sectors of society.
UPF recognizes the equal value of men and women. Their absolute value derives from a common origin, God. God is the origin of both men and women, and all of God’s creation manifests complementary masculine and feminine aspects.
Men and women are extensions and manifestations of God’s harmonious masculinity and femininity. The complementary relationship between men and women expresses the wholeness of human experience. Thus, there should be no gender discrimination but rather harmony of the sexes through love.
Throughout history, women have taken the leading role in cultivating families as the dwelling places of peace, love, and health in shaping the individual character of children, and in fostering harmonious social relationships. In the family, both father and mother are equally entitled to reverence and honor. The path toward establishing global peace begins with strengthening families.
The ideal of peace is at the core of all religions. Through dialogue and mutual understanding, there can be peace among religions, and peace among religions is a necessary prerequisite for world peace. Women can and should play a central role in promoting interfaith understanding and cooperation.
UPF emphasizes the essential importance of women in addressing issues of peace and development in all sectors, including politics, business, culture, and religion. Women must be encouraged and empowered to assume leadership roles in the resolution of conflict, peacebuilding, and sustainable development.
UPF supports the achievement of the United Nations' Millennium Development Goals, which include improved status, education, health, and physical well-being of women. Six of these eight goals are related to women; therefore, by uplifting the condition of women, the Millennium Development Goals will be advanced.
UPF World Summit 2013 Speakers
Excerpts of speeches at the World Summit 2013 of the Universal Peace Federation in Seoul, Korea, February 22-25, 2013
Interfaith Harmony Week 2013
Observances by the Universal Peace Federation and partner organizations of World Interfaith Harmony Week 2013
World peace can be fully accomplished only when the wisdom and efforts of the world’s religious leaders are combined cooperatively and respectfully with the endeavors of national political leaders. Absent the recognition of spiritual principles, the world has drifted increasingly toward analyses and prescriptions that are materialistic and secular in nature. In so doing, we have lost sight of the profound wisdom to be found in humanity’s spiritual heritage.
Global institutions must be built on a foundation that takes into account the full potential of the human being, not only as a political, economic, and social being, but also as a spiritual being with spiritual needs and a capacity for spiritual wisdom and insight. The legacy of the world’s great saints, prophets, sages, and spiritual leaders cannot be denied or discounted without ignoring what is most fundamental about the human being.
In too many ways the history of religion has been marked by narrow sectarianism, strife, and competitive struggle with other faiths, all to the detriment of the cherished goals and teachings of the founders and scriptures. This cannot continue. The need to eliminate corruption, selfishness, and bad governance applies not only to all nations but also to all of the world’s religions.
Lasting peace depends on cooperative partnerships between governments and religions, as well as NGOs and representatives of the private sector. The United Nations can benefit from a council of religious and spiritual leaders to bring broad vision and wisdom to the effort to address critical global problems. International conferences, publications, networking, and on-the-ground activism are mechanisms for interfaith cooperation and lay a foundation for spiritual renewal at the United Nations.
Women's Day 2011
Observances of UN International Women's Day 2011
The Universal Peace Federation upholds the essential value and central role of women in peacebuilding and human development.
UPF affirms the need for women to serve in leadership positions throughout the world in all sectors of society.
UPF recognizes the equal value of men and women. Their absolute value derives from a common origin, God. God is the origin of both men and women, and all of God’s creation manifests complementary masculine and feminine aspects.
Men and women are extensions and manifestations of God’s harmonious masculinity and femininity. The complementary relationship between men and women expresses the wholeness of human experience. Thus, there should be no gender discrimination but rather harmony of the sexes through love.
Throughout history, women have taken the leading role in cultivating families as the dwelling places of peace, love, and health in shaping the individual character of children, and in fostering harmonious social relationships. In the family, both father and mother are equally entitled to reverence and honor. The path toward establishing global peace begins with strengthening families.
The ideal of peace is at the core of all religions. Through dialogue and mutual understanding, there can be peace among religions, and peace among religions is a necessary prerequisite for world peace. Women can and should play a central role in promoting interfaith understanding and cooperation.
UPF emphasizes the essential importance of women in addressing issues of peace and development in all sectors, including politics, business, culture, and religion. Women must be encouraged and empowered to assume leadership roles in the resolution of conflict, peacebuilding, and sustainable development.
UPF supports the achievement of the United Nations' Millennium Development Goals, which include improved status, education, health, and physical well-being of women. Six of these eight goals are related to women; therefore, by uplifting the condition of women, the Millennium Development Goals will be advanced.
UN Day of Families 2014
Observances of the UN International Day of Families, May 15, 2014, with the theme "Families Matter for the Achievement of Development Goals."
The Universal Peace Federation affirms the value of the family as the core unit of society. The family has formed the basis for communities, societies and civilizations throughout the ages. Virtually all the world’s religions teach the sacred value of marriage and family. The family is the school of love. It is also the school of virtue, ethics and citizenship.
The cohesion and stability of the family are prerequisites for a healthy and stable society. Conversely, the breakdown of the family contributes to a wide range of social problems. By strengthening the family, we can build a stronger base of social capital that will enhance the overall quality of life for everyone.
The natural family is grounded in marriage, the cornerstone of the family. Children benefit from having loving parents, a mother and father, who are committed to the well-being of their sons and daughters. There is no greater joy and no greater responsibility than that of raising boys and girls to become mature, socially-engaged and successful men and women. This is the role and responsibility of parents and grandparents.
Traditional marriage and family are being challenged in a variety of ways at this time in history, by poverty, migration, displacement, urbanization, conflict, disease, etc. In addition, some question the value of traditional marriage and family. Others seek to redefine them. Despite these challenges, men and women the world over still aspire to build strong, loving, lasting marriages and, as parents, to raise children who prosper and flourish.
International Day of Peace 2012
Celebrations of the UN International Day of Peace, September 21, 2012, organized by chapters of the Universal Peace Federation. Theme: "Sustainable Peace for a Sustainable Future." Sustainable Peace...
This year, world leaders, together with civil society, local authorities and the private sector, met in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil for the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development to renew political commitment to long term sustainable development.
It is in the context of the Rio+20 Conference that “Sustainable Peace for a Sustainable Future” is the theme chosen for this year's observance of the International day of Peace.
There can be no sustainable future without a sustainable peace. Sustainable peace must be built on sustainable development.
...From Sustainable Development...
The root causes of many conflicts are directly related to or fuelled by valuable natural resources, such as diamonds, gold, oil, timber or water. Addressing the ownership, control and management of natural resources is crucial to maintaining security and restoring the economy in post-conflict countries.
Good natural resource management can play a central role in building sustainable peace in post-conflict societies.
...For a Sustainable Future
The International Day of Peace offers people globally a shared date to think about how, individually, they can contribute to ensuring that natural resources are managed in a sustainable manner, thus reducing potential for disputes, and paving the road to a sustainable future, the "Future We Want." The United Nations set the theme for this year's observance as Sustainable Peace for a Sustainable Future. Peace has its foundation in the quality of human character and human relationships. And it has been our shared moral and spiritual traditions that, throughout millennia, have taught us of our common origins, purpose and destiny. Lasting peace and the growth in solidarity among the whole human family comes from the recognition that we are all brothers and sisters. We are to live as one family under God. UPF calls upon the United Nations community, governments, and civil society to consider that the need for sustainable development, environmental stewardship, and social justice are but symptoms of a deeper human problem: we have not learned to live as one family, sharing this planet and caring for the natural world placed at our disposal by a loving Creator;
UPF affirms the value of democracy and free market economies. Corporations have a strong interest in promoting sustainable development and the development of a green economy because this is in everyone’s best interest.
UPF affirms that the family is the primary unit of society, the foundation of moral, spiritual, social, and political education. Families may be great allies in the effort to achieve sustainable development.
Viewers also liked (20)
More from Universal Peace Federation International
International Day of Peace - UPF 2008-2015 Highlights
United Nations International Day of Peace
UPF Highlights of 2008-2015
16:9
International Day of Peace 2014
Observances of the UN International Day of Peace, September 21, 2014 organized by the Universal Peace Federation in Albania, Argentina, Australia, Azerbaijan, Benin, Bolivia, Cambodia, Canada, Central African Republic, Colombia, Costa Rica, Denmark, DR Congo, Ecuador, Estonia, France, Gabon, Germany, Iceland, Indonesia, Israel, Italy, Japan, LIthuania, Malaysia, Marshall Islands, Moldova, Nepal, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Nigeria, Norway, Peru, Russia, San Marino, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, Trinidad & Tobago, and the US.
The theme for the International Day of Peace 2014 was "The Rights of Peoples to Peace."
Along with human rights, there are human responsibilities. In order for human rights to be honored, respected and practiced, each individual should appreciate and practice his or her own portion of responsibilities. Likewise, in order for "we the peoples" to enjoy the "right of peace" it is necessary for each of us to work to build a world of peace, that is, a world of mutual respect and cooperation that goes beyond barriers of religion, ethnicity, culture and nationality.
Marriage and family are the fundamental building blocks of society. When the family is healthy and stable, society becomes healthy and stable. When husband and wife love and respect one another, fully appreciative each one's value and each one's dignity, then respect for rights naturally follow. The family is the school of ethics and, in this capacity, the school of human rights. Through good parenting practices that underscore the value, dignity and rights of each and every human being, we move the world toward peace, one family at a time.
For many people of faith, human rights have their root and origin in our Creator. There are compelling arguments to suggest that the largely secularized understanding of human rights has its foundation in spiritual and religious understandings of human beings as inherently sacred, and each one equally valuable.
Interfaith Peacebuilding
The Universal Peace Federation and its global network of Ambassadors for Peace bring universal, spiritual principles to the task of resolving conflict and reconciling the divided human family. International Leadership Conferences, symposia and peace councils offer opportunities for high-level consultations. These are complemented by "track II" diplomacy and grass-roots programs that build support for a culture of peace.
World peace can be fully accomplished only when the wisdom and efforts of the world’s religious leaders are combined cooperatively and respectfully with the endeavors of national political leaders. Absent the recognition of spiritual principles, the world has drifted increasingly toward analyses and prescriptions that are materialistic and secular in nature. In so doing, we have lost sight of the profound wisdom to be found in humanity’s spiritual heritage.
Global institutions must be built on a foundation that takes into account the full potential of the human being, not only as a political, economic, and social being, but also as a spiritual being with spiritual needs and a capacity for spiritual wisdom and insight. The legacy of the world’s great saints, prophets, sages, and spiritual leaders cannot be denied or discounted without ignoring what is most fundamental about the human being.
In too many ways the history of religion has been marked by narrow sectarianism, strife, and competitive struggle with other faiths, all to the detriment of the cherished goals and teachings of the founders and scriptures. This cannot continue. The need to eliminate corruption, selfishness, and bad governance applies not only to all nations but also to all of the world’s religions.
Lasting peace depends on cooperative partnerships between governments and religions, as well as NGOs and representatives of the private sector. The United Nations can benefit from a council of religious and spiritual leaders to bring broad vision and wisdom to the effort to address critical global problems. International conferences, publications, networking, and on-the-ground activism are mechanisms for interfaith cooperation and lay a foundation for spiritual renewal at the United Nations.
Ambassadors for Peace Handbook
A handbook for Universal Peace Federation Ambassadors for Peace. The Universal Peace Federation is a global network of individuals and organizations dedicated to building a world of peace centered on universal spiritual and moral values along with principles of good governance. See www.upf.org
Toward Peace and Stability in the Middle East
Executive report of a Universal Peace Federation conference in Jerusalem, Dec. 19-22, 2013, on "Interreligious and International Relations in the Middle East: Toward Peace and Stability," by Dr. Nurit Hirschfeld, Director, Jerusalem Forum for Interfaith and Cooperation among Religions
International Leadership Conference, Feb. 2014, Seoul, Korea
International Leadership Conference, Feb. 2014, Seoul, KoreaUniversal Peace Federation International
“Toward a New Paradigm for Peace and Human Development” was the theme of an International Leadership Conference that drew people from 50 nations to Seoul, Korea, from Feb. 9 to 13, 2014. Distinguished diplomats, scholars and peace activists offered insights into current events on the Korean Peninsula and in the Middle East to the 165 conference participants. Religious leaders, educators, journalists and women leaders described their work to build understanding and improve relations among diverse people in Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe and the Middle East.Interfaith Harmony Week 2014
UN World Interfaith Harmony Week celebrations organized by the Universal Peace Federation, first week of February 2014.
World peace can be fully accomplished only when the wisdom and efforts of the world’s religious leaders are combined cooperatively and respectfully with the endeavors of national political leaders. Absent the recognition of spiritual principles, the world has drifted increasingly toward analyses and prescriptions that are materialistic and secular in nature. In so doing, we have lost sight of the profound wisdom to be found in humanity’s spiritual heritage.
Global institutions must be built on a foundation that takes into account the full potential of the human being, not only as a political, economic, and social being, but also as a spiritual being with spiritual needs and a capacity for spiritual wisdom and insight. The legacy of the world’s great saints, prophets, sages, and spiritual leaders cannot be denied or discounted without ignoring what is most fundamental about the human being.
In too many ways the history of religion has been marked by narrow sectarianism, strife, and competitive struggle with other faiths, all to the detriment of the cherished goals and teachings of the founders and scriptures. This cannot continue. The need to eliminate corruption, selfishness, and bad governance applies not only to all nations but also to all of the world’s religions.
Lasting peace depends on cooperative partnerships between governments and religions, as well as NGOs and representatives of the private sector. The United Nations can benefit from a council of religious and spiritual leaders to bring broad vision and wisdom to the effort to address critical global problems. International conferences, publications, networking, and on-the-ground activism are mechanisms for interfaith cooperation and lay a foundation for spiritual renewal at the United Nations.
UPF Highlights
Highlights of the variety of activities by Universal Peace Federation chapters,
On local, national, and global levels, interreligious councils provide a platform for people of diverse faiths to contribute their wisdom and work effectively for peace alongside representatives of government, business, and civil society.
UPF acknowledges the need for careful and measurable use of enforcement such as political, military, and civil power to sustain lasting peace. At the same time we strongly emphasize the pursuit of internal solutions that are essential to peacebuilding. UPF has been a leading exponent of “track two” diplomacy, with particular emphasis on the role and responsibility of religious and spiritual leaders to transcend historical self-interest and pursue the ideal of “One family under God.”
UPF is an NGO in Special Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations. We support and promote the work of the United Nations and the achievement of sustainable development goals.
Marriage, parenting, and the family are the foundations of sustainable human development and the building blocks of society. Educational programs present the personal and social benefits of marriage, promote a marriage-friendly culture, teach relationship skills, and encourage spiritual growth through relationships.
UPF's leadership conferences and seminars focus on the urgent need for new vision and leadership based on core values and universal principles of peacebuilding.
Service-learning programs bring together youth from different cultures and religions in order to promote mutual understanding and respect. Participants serve a community in need, visit religious and historic sites, and learn communication and team-building skills.
MEPI photos 2004
Photos of Middle East Peace Initiative trips in 2004, sponsored by the Interreligious and International Federation for World Peace
MEPI photos 2003
Middle East Peace Initiative programs in May, September, October and December 2003 - Interreligious and International Federation for World Peace
UPF World Summit 2013 on Peace, Security and Development
UPF's World Summit on Peace, Security and Development, February 22-25, 2013, Seoul, Korea.
Prospects for Dialogue & Reconciliation in Syria
The world is painfully aware of the horrific suffering in Syria and yet unable to find a way to end it. This consultation assembled by the Universal Peace Federation in Amman, Jordan, October 11-13, 2013, quickly doubled in size, eventually numbering more than 40 participants. This initial report takes a thematic approach, highlighting its strengths and special characteristics, which might be summarized as its diversity and the interdisciplinary approach; regional and international perspectives; religious/spiritual perspectives; NGO perspectives, and the points emphasized in the declaration.
The conflict in Syria has escalated at an alarming rate, leaving more than 100,000 people dead and more than 2 million internally displaced persons and refugees; in effect, spawning a human disaster of enormous magnitude. With recent news of the August 21 deaths of 1400 men, women, and children as a result of chemical weapons, the world's leading stakeholders, including the permanent members of the UN Security Council, find themselves at a critical juncture. While a solution seems far away, there is at least movement in the direction of establishing some international control over Syria's stockpiles of chemical weapons, a move that might avert a military intervention by the USA.
UPF appeals to the United Nations and the major powers to redouble their efforts for a diplomatic solution. Meanwhile, we call upon leaders of the world's great faith traditions, especially Muslims, Jews, and Christians, to come together in the search for a solution that brings an end to the bloodshed. Moreover, when we speak of Muslims, Jews, and Christians, we include all the diverse factions, sects, divisions, denominations, and subcultures within those great and esteemed traditions. After all, we know that the obstacles to the great dialogue among religions are not merely found at the borders that separate the major religions, but the fissures and battle-lines are drawn with equal strength within the sphere of each of the major religious traditions.
UPF applauds the efforts made by Pope Francis, calling for prayer, fasting, and an end to the violence in Syria, as well as other worthy and outstanding initiatives, such as King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz' International Centre for Interreligious and Intercultural Dialogue, Religions for Peace, UNESCO's Culture of Peace initiative, and the UN's Alliance of Civilizations. UPF supports these efforts and has itself been consistently advocating for the establishment of an interfaith council of spiritual elders within the United Nations system, along with promotion of ongoing dialogue, rapprochement, and trust-building between the USA, the European Union, and the Russian Federation.
We call upon leaders and believers from all the faith traditions, and sub-traditions, to come together in support of peace in Syria, offering humanitarian assistance, as well as a wide range of soft power initiatives.
International Day of Peace 2013
Universal Peace Federation chapters organized celebrations of the International Day of Peace, September 21. The theme was Education for Peace. "It is not enough to teach children how to read, write and count. Education has to cultivate mutual respect for others and the world in which we live, and help people forge more just, inclusive and peaceful societies." - UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon
UPF offers the following recommendations in support of the theme "Education for Peace":
The family is the original primary school. It is in the family, in relation to our parents, grandparents, siblings, and extended familial network, that we learn language, cultural values, ethics, religion, essential information related to survival, and basic attitudes toward others, including those who exist outside "the tribe." If within the family, centered on the parents and grandparents, there is an affirmation of education and, more importantly, an emphasis on moral education or character education, then the family becomes a school of peace. It is very important that we come to understand, value, and support the family as the primary school of peace.
While formal systems of education are naturally focused on development of professional capacities and skills that are necessary for employment and economic success, education must also give emphasis to moral education or character education. In this sense, education must consider the whole person. Traditionally, education comprises both the "arts" and the "sciences." The "arts" refer to the "liberal arts" or the "humanities" as a curriculum which introduces students to the great ideas of history and the moral and spiritual guidance that comes from classic literature, including sacred scriptures. Peace cannot be achieved by technology alone but requires ultimately a transformation of persons from selfishness, greed, and viciousness to benevolence, generosity, and self-discipline.
Interfaith dialogue, understanding, and cooperation are essential to peace. As long as beliefs within one religious tradition hold prejudicial attitudes toward people of other faiths, or even of people of divergent perspectives within one's own faith, peace cannot be achieved. Both the family system and the school system should cultivate interfaith awareness and mutual respect. Religious and interfaith illiteracy should not be tolerated, knowing that it contributes to bigotry, discrimination and, eventually, to violence. The curricula of the school system, from primary school to university, should include courses that respectfully and objectively teach about the great religious ideas and practitioners of history, just as we study the great art and literature of the major civilizations.
Issues of peace and security are enormously complex. Simplistic and ill-informed perspectives should not be encouraged. Forums, symposia, and publications that include various well-informed perspectives, contribute to balance and reasonable solutions.
UPF Annual Report 2013
An overview of the work of the Universal Peace Federation in 2013 including programs promoting interfaith understanding and cooperation, peace and security, marriage and family, and humanitarian service,
On local, national, and global levels, interreligious councils provide a platform for people of diverse faiths to contribute their wisdom and work effectively for peace alongside representatives of government, business, and civil society.
UPF acknowledges the need for careful and measurable use of enforcement such as political, military, and civil power to sustain lasting peace. At the same time we strongly emphasize the pursuit of internal solutions that are essential to peacebuilding. UPF has been a leading exponent of “track two” diplomacy, with particular emphasis on the role and responsibility of religious and spiritual leaders to transcend historical self-interest and pursue the ideal of “One family under God.”
UPF is an NGO in Special Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations. We support and promote the work of the United Nations and the achievement of sustainable development goals.
Marriage, parenting, and the family are the foundations of sustainable human development and the building blocks of society. Educational programs present the personal and social benefits of marriage, promote a marriage-friendly culture, teach relationship skills, and encourage spiritual growth through relationships.
UPF's leadership conferences and seminars focus on the urgent need for new vision and leadership based on core values and universal principles of peacebuilding.
Service-learning programs bring together youth from different cultures and religions in order to promote mutual understanding and respect. Participants serve a community in need, visit religious and historic sites, and learn communication and team-building skills.
Religious Youth Service Introduction
An introduction to Religious Youth Service, an interfaith service-learning program of the Universal Peace Federation
Global Day of Parents 2013
Observances of the UN Global Day of Parents, June 1.
UPF recalls the purposes and principles of the United Nations as set forth in its Charter, expressing resolve to promote social progress and better standards of living in larger freedom, with a view to the creation of conditions of stability and well-being.
UPF recognizes that the family has the primary responsibility for the nurturing and protection of children and that the children, for the full and harmonious development of their personality, should grow up in a family environment and in an atmosphere of happiness, harmony, love, and understanding.
UPF is aware of the role of parents everywhere as the primary caregivers and teachers of their children, setting the foundation for success in life. It also recognizes that parenthood requires sacrifice, steadfast love and support, and a commitment to the education of children, our most precious resource for the future.
UPF is appreciative of parents of every race, religion, nationality, and culture the world over for their commitment and acknowledges that parents are the anchors of the family, the cornerstone of society,
Conscious of the fact that the task of good, responsible parenting is of immeasurable importance to promote social and sustainable development and achieving the Millennium Development Goals, UPF encourages Member States, government officials, religious leaders, academe, and members of civil society to celebrate the Global Day of Parents each year, honoring parents throughout the world, recognizing that we form one global family.
More from Universal Peace Federation International (16)
International Day of Peace - UPF 2008-2015 Highlights
International Day of Peace - UPF 2008-2015 Highlights
International Leadership Conference, Feb. 2014, Seoul, Korea
International Leadership Conference, Feb. 2014, Seoul, Korea
UPF World Summit 2013 on Peace, Security and Development
UPF World Summit 2013 on Peace, Security and Development
Recently uploaded
Jude: Practical Exhortations_Jude 17-23.pptx
In Jude 17-23 Jude shifts from piling up examples of false teachers from the Old Testament to a series of practical exhortations that flow from apostolic instruction. He preserves for us what may well have been part of the apostolic catechism for the first generation of Christ-followers. In these instructions Jude exhorts the believer to deal with 3 different groups of people: scoffers who are "devoid of the Spirit", believers who have come under the influence of scoffers and believers who are so entrenched in false teaching that they need rescue and pose some real spiritual risk for the rescuer. In all of this Jude emphasizes Jesus' call to rescue straying sheep, leaving the 99 safely behind and pursuing the 1.
English - The Book of Joshua the Son of Nun.pdf
The Book of Joshua is the sixth book in the Hebrew Bible and the Old Testament, and is the first book of the Deuteronomistic history, the story of Israel from the conquest of Canaan to the Babylonian exile.
The PBHP DYC ~ Reflections on The Dhamma (English).pptx
A PowerPoint Presentation based on the Dhamma Reflections for the PBHP DYC for the years 1993 – 2012. To motivate and inspire DYC members to keep on practicing the Dhamma and to do the meritorious deed of Dhammaduta work.
The texts are in English.
For the Video with audio narration, comments and texts in English, please check out the Link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zF2g_43NEa0
The Good News, newsletter for June 2024 is here
Our monthly newsletter is available to read online. We hope you will join us each Sunday in person for our worship service. Make sure to subscribe and follow us on YouTube and social media.
Jesus Heals a Paralyzed Man for Children
Verse from John 13:34 with icebreak: complete the missing letters
The Chakra System in our body - A Portal to Interdimensional Consciousness.pptx
each chakra is studied in greater detail, several steps have been included to
strengthen your personal intention to open each chakra more fully. These are designed
to draw forth the highest benefit for your spiritual growth.
Lesson 9 - Resisting Temptation Along the Way.pptx
Lesson 9 - Resisting Temptation Along the Way
SBs – Sunday Bible School
Adult Bible Lessons 2nd quarter 2024 CPAD
MAGAZINE: THE CAREER THAT IS PROPOSED TO US: The Path of Salvation, Holiness and Perseverance to Reach Heaven
Commentator: Pastor Osiel Gomes
Presentation: Missionary Celso Napoleon
Renewed in Grace
What Should be the Christian View of Anime?
We will learn what Anime is and see what a Christian should consider before watching anime movies? We will also learn a little bit of Shintoism religion and hentai (the craze of internet pornography today).
Evangelization in the footsteps of Saint Vincent de Paul
Announcing the Good News of Salvation in the footsteps of Saint Vincent de Paul
Homily: The Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity Sunday 2024.docx
Countless volumes have been written trying to explain the mystery of three persons in one true God, leaving us to resort to metaphors such as the three-leaf clover to try to comprehend the Divinity. Many of us grew up with the quintessential pyramidal Trinity structure of God at the top and Son and Spirit in opposite corners. But what if we looked at this ‘mystery’ from a different perspective? What if we shifted our language of God as a being towards the concept of God as love? What if we focused more on the relationship within the Trinity versus the persons of the Trinity? What if stopped looking at God as a noun…and instead considered God as a verb? Check it out…
Recently uploaded (16)
Kenneth Grant - Against the Light-Holmes Pub Grou Llc (1999).pdf
Kenneth Grant - Against the Light-Holmes Pub Grou Llc (1999).pdf
The PBHP DYC ~ Reflections on The Dhamma (English).pptx
The PBHP DYC ~ Reflections on The Dhamma (English).pptx
The Chakra System in our body - A Portal to Interdimensional Consciousness.pptx
The Chakra System in our body - A Portal to Interdimensional Consciousness.pptx
Lesson 9 - Resisting Temptation Along the Way.pptx
Lesson 9 - Resisting Temptation Along the Way.pptx
Evangelization in the footsteps of Saint Vincent de Paul
Evangelization in the footsteps of Saint Vincent de Paul
Homily: The Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity Sunday 2024.docx
Homily: The Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity Sunday 2024.docx
Religious Youth Service 2013
- 1. Through living together and providing altruistic service in a community, participants demonstrate that it is possible for our global human family to come together in peace for our mutual well being. Estonia Georgia India Israel Nepal Pakistan Russia Sri Lanka Tajikistan Thailand USA Service-Learning Projects in 2013
- 2. Working on projects at a Lutheran church in Johvi ESTONIA
- 3. Restoration work at the Zugdidi Botanical Gardens GEORGIA
- 4. Renovating a building that serves slum children in New Delhi INDIA
- 5. Building relationships with special- needs children at a school in an Arab village ISRAEL
- 6. Painting five school buildings in NuwakotNEPAL
- 7. Painting and cleaning up at a school in Pokhara NEPAL
- 8. Planting trees at religious sites in Multan PAKISTAN
- 9. Providing service to the elderly in UfaRUSSIA
- 10. Construction at a village medical clinic in Nuwara-Eliya SRI LANKA
- 11. Visiting religious sites and taking orphans on an outing in Dushanbe TAJIKISTAN
- 12. Painting a school building and playground equipment in Songkhla THAILAND
- 13. Making a Peace Garden at a Jewish community center near Washington DC US
- 14. Religious Youth Service is a program of the Universal Peace Federation. For more information about Religious Youth Service, click here.
Editor's Notes
- UPF-Estonia organized a Religious Youth Service project in coordination with the Johvi Lutheran Church in the northeastern part of Estonia August 1 to 10. Participants improved the building and grounds of a Lutheran church, worked on projects in the community, and assisted with other work. The experiential-learning program included presentations on relationship-building, teamwork, a culture of heart, and tolerance.
- Sixteen volunteers from Azerbaijan, Armenia, Georgia, and Russia, representing the Armenian and the Georgian Orthodox Church, Islam, and the Unification Church, participated in the program “Youth Leaders: Joint Service for Peace” that was held in the city of Zugdidi in west Georgia July 20 to 28. The project was sponsored by UPF and the NGO “Save the Future Generations.” A representative of the Zugdidi administration was in charge of all major events. The city administration sponsored a trip to Batumi, where the volunteers visited the mosque and spent some time on the sunny seashore
- St. Stephen's College of the University of Delhi collaborated with UPF to host a Religious Youth Service project Dec. 16-22, 2013. Participantsl had a living experience of India's diverse religions and cultures and make an impact by renovating a facility serving slum children.
- The Dec. 18-22 program started with the welcoming of 42 participants from five continents and 15 nations. Those young, high-spirited leaders came to the Holy Land in order to study about the complicated geopolitical reality in Israel, wishing to understand better the hearts of the locals - both Israelis and Palestinians.A participant reflection: “Viewing the struggles, the sadness and the upset amongst the faces of those who live in this county has allowed me to have hope and to acknowledge and be grateful for all that I have, but to also strive to help alleviate the challenges the Israelis and Palestinians encounter.”
- A Religious Youth Service project took place in Pokhara, Nepal November 24-30 with the theme “Peace through Service.” Participants engaged in community-based volunteer work, educational presentations, interfaith and community visits, interactive programs, and cross-cultural learning experiences. The 41 participants came from Bangladesh, Pakistan, Russia and Canada as well as Nepal.
- A Religious Youth Service project took place in Pokhara, Nepal November 24-30 with the theme “Peace through Service.” Participants engaged in community-based volunteer work, educational presentations, interfaith and community visits, interactive programs, and cross-cultural learning experiences. The 41 participants came from Bangladesh, Pakistan, Russia and Canada as well as Nepal.
- The Society for the Promotion of Education and Awareness (SEAP Pakistan) along with Religious Youth Service-Pakistan organized a second RYS project in Pakistan with the theme “Youth of Faith Build Peace by Practicing Love and Service” from March 18 – 23, 2013. RYS-Pakistan invited local and international youths to come together to explore and experience cultural unity through working together in a volunteer service project in one of the ancient cities of Asia, Multan. Participants attended an International Peace Conference, planted trees in various religious institutions, and visited historical places in Multan.
- In celebration of World Interfaith Harmony Week, a Religious Youth Service program took place February 1-5 in Ufa, capital of Russia's Bashkortostan. It brought together young people of different faiths to promote a tradition of tolerance in relations between different religious traditions and encourage fruitful cooperation for peace.
- International participants joined a Religious Youth Service project in Walapane, central Sri Lanka, Dec. 13-20, 2013. The service-learning experience included educational presentations, leadership development, learning about Sri Lanka's diverse religions, and constructing a floor a village medical clinic.
- "Dushanbe – City of Peace" was the theme of the first Religious Youth Service project in Tajikistan, which took place May 25 to 31. Activities included visiting religious and historic sites and taking orphan children on an outing.
- Forty Buddhist, Muslim, Christian and Unificationist youth helped renovate a school building in Slongkhla, Thailand August 21-25, 2013 as part of a Religious Youth Service project. The interreligious experiences included visits to a Buddhist temple, Muslim mosque, and Catholic church as well as an interreligious dialogue.
- The 18 youth participants were joined by an equal number of Jewish summer camp participants ages 7 to 10 in a groundbreaking ceremony for the new “Shalom Peace Garden” at the Jewish Center and School in Silver Spring, Maryland.