September 21 was first recognized by the United Nations as a Day of Peace in 1981. Around the world, 280 million people were aware of September 21 as a day of peace in 2012. See report here.In 2012, the campaign motivated 170 groups in 15 countries, with 15 different traditions involved.
Following the lead of Peace One Day, which has organized September 21 events internationally, the theme for 2013 is “Who Will You Make Peace With?” Here in the U.S. this theme calls us not only to continue to advocate and pray for peace in areas of conflict around the world, but to reflect on how peace may be needed in our own lives and communities as well.
Would your local congregations or individuals be interested in participating? On Earth Peace and the United Church of Christ Justice and Witness Ministries office would like to invite your participation this year.
There are several ways you could choose to express your support or co-sponsorship of the campaign.
-
Send the organizers your logo to list you as a “co-sponsor” group
-
Promote Peace Day within your network of congregations through newsletters, e-mail blasts, social networking, etc.
-
Actively recruit individuals in your networks to participate in Peace Day
Visit http://peacedaypray.tumblr.com/ to register events or get information and resources (more coming!).
Contact Matt at peaceday@onearthpeace.org or Mike at neurothm@ucc.org with questions or to explore your organization’s sponsorship or participation.