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. The focus for 2014 is The Right of Peoples to Peace.
Here are some ways to celebrate the International Day of Peace on September 21 or Sunday, September 22 or at some other time:
Promote the Peacemaking Offering
Observe a Minute of Silence at Noon in your time zone
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
Jesus, joy, oh our heart’s comfort – a hymn prayer
Hold a prayer vigil – join with people around the world in a vigil
Sponsor a concert or community event
Recognize the educators in your community
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 teachers and students and others involved in education to 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
Find additional ideas on Twitter at the hashtag #PeaceDay
Use your imagination!
Share the ways you celebrate the International Day of Peace in the name of Jesus, the Prince of Peace.