Jerusalem, Israel.  Yehuda Stolov

On the night of September 21st in Jerusalem the IEA - Interfaith Encounter Association - had some 60 Muslim, Jewish, and Christian brothers and sisters celebrating together the International Day of Peace. During the act, all attendants paid respect to the International Peace Day with a minute of silence, said “May Peace Prevail on Earth”, danced circular dances and, in the end, threw white balloons to the air as a means of support. We have also tolled the Peace Bell, on its 50th. Anniversary. 

       

We were lighting a Peace Candle, offering traditional prayers for peace from the three religions, sharing about the work of the different IEA groups in Jerusalem and signing a Declaration of Intention to work and pray for peace daily. After blessing each other, we were sharing food and spontaneously singing songs in Arabic and Hebrew accompanied by the guitar and the oud - all in the balmy Jerusalem evening air in the garden of the Swedish Theological Institute.



It was a magical night of camaraderie, warmth, hope and relaxation – a true oasis of peace. Some commented how simple and unpretentious it was - no speeches, no fancy proclamations, no well-prepared presentations or artistic offerings, no egos jostling for position as peacemakers -- just a basic sharing of our time, our work, our music, our hopes, our food, and most importantly - our selves.  This wonderful respite gladdened and encouraged us all as we experienced that PEACE IS POSSIBLE.

                    

Noa added a moving personal note: "The most important affect this meeting had on me was to see many more people I didn't know before who are involved in interfaith activity. People who are part of a community we are creating. Many times as I walk the streets of Jerusalem I think that this city can be a wonderful spiritual oasis - a place for celebrating the difference of culture, language and belief. Last night in the beautiful yard of Bet Tabor Jerusalem seemed to me beautifully rich with the diversity of humankind.  The potential of this city was visual and clear. It was great."