We began our new year with an interfaith event at the beautiful Ala Moana Park hosted by Nayak Polissar.

Then the underlying spirit of oneness in which the event was held was introduced. A few interfaith activities of the Sri Chinmoy Centres at different locations around the world were shared. Also mentioned were some related events supported by the Peace Meditation Group at the United Nations which Sri Chinmoy founded in 1970 following an invitation from Secretary-General U Thant.

Hashi Roberts read of few of Sri Chinmoy's poems on peace.

Our international choir shared some of Sri Chinmoy's songs including songs written for Hawai'i.

We shared a few poignant minutes of silence.

Bishop Stephen Randolph Sykes from the inclusive Orthodox Church offered a heartfelt prayer.

Sister Joan of the Maryknoll Order held up a painting by Sri Chinmoy as she spoke about how each one of us has something unique and important to offer to the world.

Ala Moana Beach park provided the perfect location for our gathering.

Salil Wilson, Executive Director of the World Harmony Run, introduced the Torch-Bearer award which recognizes and honors people of inspiration and service.

Nayak then shared just a few of Sister Joan's remarkable efforts to serve both people in Honolulu as well as around the world.

Pragati presented Sister Joan with the medallion for her untiring service in education and interfaith understanding.

Sister Joan graciously accepted the award and encouraged each of us to carry a spirit of love and peace in our hearts as we try to do our best to share that spirit with all we meet.

We then finished by singing the World Harmony Run song.

Bishop Steven and Sister Joan spent quite a while mingling with everyone and were both eager to learn about our countries of origin as well as our experiences here in Hawai'i.

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*New :  Video Message from Davidson Hepburn, President (2009 - 2011) of the General Conference of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO): "World Harmony Run 25th Anniversary:Toward 2022 and a Oneness-World"   http://youtu.be/GGsXXWWFdGY 

Full Text of the 25th annversary message and link to 15 language informal Translations: http://www.worldharmonyrun.org/25

or Click on language button for informal translations and link to separate youtube videos wth sub titles in varous languages

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 See also:

• Youtube video on African experience which illustrates IYY slogan "Our Year Our Voice"  International Year of Youth - Zambia World Harmony. They surprisingly mention Presidents and UN Secretary-General in a unique way! 

• Listen to the World-Harmony-Run song: 2 min version // 6 min 

•   Music Scores;  Arrangements;   Song in Non-English Languages;  Schools Arrangements and Performances

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– Salil Wilson

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Gallery: See more images!

USA 2 January >