The United Nations has set September 21 as the International Day of Peace. This day provides an opportunity for individuals, organizations and nations to create practical acts of peace on a shared date. It was established by a United Nations resolution in 1981 to coincide with the opening of the General Assembly. During the recent Youth Making a Difference seminar at the Presbyterian Ministry at the United Nations, young people identified a number of ways to celebrate the International Day of Peace. Here are some additional ideas:
Observe a Minute of Silence at Noon
Ring your church bells
Light candles
Pray
A prayer for the International Day of Peace
Prayers from the Presbyterian Ministry at the United Nations
Prayers from the World Council of Churches
Prayers from participants in the International Ecumenical Peace Convocation
Jesus, joy, oh our heart’s comfort – a hymn prayer
Sponsor a concert or community event
Invite children, youth and young adults (and older adults!) to share their ideas for how peace can be pursued in writing, drawing, speaking, film or whatever media is appropriate
Invite peacemakers to reflect on their experiences and share their stories
Make origami cranes and display them
Dedicate (or rededicate) a peace pole
Clean up a portion of God’s creation
Tell the world that children are children, not soldiers
Address gun violence in your community
Use your imagination!
Share the ways you celebrate the International Day of Peace in the name of Jesus, the Prince of Peace.