Promoting Dialogue, Understanding and Cooperation: Bridge of Peace Ceremony in Arizona
The Women’s Federation for World Peace (WFWP), the Universal Peace Federation (UPF), and Arizona Family Church jointly hosted a significant event on Saturday, November 4, 2023, known as the Bridge of Peace Ceremony.
This momentous gathering brought together influential figures, community leaders, friends, and families dedicated to peace from across the community. Held at the Hilton Garden Inn, the event served as a powerful symbol of unity and collaboration in the pursuit of a more harmonious world. Eighty-eight participants attended the meeting, with many experiencing the event for the first time.
The WFWP Bridge of Peace Ceremony focuses on promote dialogue, understanding, and cooperation among diverse communities. This year's ceremony stood out for its impressive lineup of attendees and its profound impact on fostering connections among community leaders.
The event was graced by the presence of four prominent public leaders committed to peace, justice, and humanitarian causes: WFWP USA President Kaeleigh Moffitt, Director of Policy of the Governor’s Office Tracy Lopes, City of Chandler Council Member Christine Ellis, and City of Tempe Council Member Doreen Garlid.
Next was the water ceremony where representatives from three faiths – Muslim, Christian, and Unificationist – poured water into a glass bowl. This symbolic act demonstrated their commitment to peace despite their different religious backgrounds.
WFWP USA President Kaeleigh Moffitt delivered a keynote address, reading excerpts from Mother Moon’s autobiography. Her insightful comments on the need and methods to create a peaceful family, society, and world resonated with the audience. President Moffitt emphasized the crucial role of women in building bridges of understanding and cooperation, highlighting that achieving peace requires the active involvement of both men and women.
Emcee, Inhaa Namvula, opened the Bridge of Peace ceremony by reading its statement and pledge. Participants, including Council Member Ellis and Council Member Garlid, Deputy Chief of Staff of the Gov. office and President Moffitt, Hawra Al Jaberi and Glenda Lambert, and Deb Gomez and Dianne Hickler, engaged in crossing the bridge, centering discussions around fostering collaboration, empathy, and mutual respect.
The entertainment was phenomenal, featuring Melanie Chryshelle, a jazz singer, and the Phoenix Asian American Lion Club dancers, creating an upbeat atmosphere.
WFWP Arizona Rhia Nkulu encouraged all guests to become WFWP members and provided updates on the latest activities of the organization.
This Bridge of Peace was a landmark event that brought together diverse voices and perspectives in a shared commitment to global peace. As the world continues to face complex challenges, the Bridge of Peace Ceremony serves as a reminder that building connections and fostering understanding are essential steps toward creating a more harmonious and united world.