Are you as inspired by Pope Francis as we are? If so, then you may understand how several non-Catholic, peace-oriented individuals have come together at a grass roots level to do what we can to push the "tipping point" for peace. We have marveled at his message of peace and his meetings with leaders of other major world religions aimed at coming together as one family. When we heard of the Pope's visit to our part of the country, Philadelphia, One Global Family for Peace took shape!
Like others, we are frequently overwhelmed by the endless amount of bad news in the world. We were struck by the thought that it's important for each of us to step up to do what we can to promote peace, in ourselves and in our lives. We admire Pope Francis' philosophy of acceptance on the many controversial social issues of our day when he says, "Who am I to judge?"
In September of 2013 at the Holy Father's Vigil of Prayer for Peace held at Saint Peter's Square, Pope Francis spoke about how our world is the "house of harmony and peace" and that humanity is one family where "the other person is a brother or sister to love." He asked us to ask ourselves: "Is it possible to walk the path of peace? Can we learn once again to walk and live in the ways of peace?" He asked that "our brothers and sisters of all religions, and every man and woman of good will, cry out forcefully: violence and war are never the way to peace!
We say YES to all people living in harmony and choosing actions guided by love! In the words of Gandhi, let's be the change we want to see in the world!
Baby Shah.
This month millions will gather to be in the presence of this global peacemaker. If you are not among those attending papal events for the World Meeting of Families (or even if you are), here are four things you can do to support the Pope's message of peace and move humanity forward during his visit to Philadelphia, the City of Brotherly Love on September 26 and 27:
1. Pause for a MOMENT OF SILENCE/PEACE at NOON, SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 to create a tidal wave of peaceful thoughts.
2. Spend the weekend being at peace with yourself and all others (past AND present).
3. Talk to someone (in a peace-filled and joyful way) that you have not talked to for a long time.
4. Design your own peace gathering -- large or small -- making your event filled with joy and love. Invite and inspire members of other cultures, faiths and beliefs to your gathering in support of global peace and love.
We believe all thoughts and actions have energy and that your energy, combined with others on that weekend, can make a difference. The visit to the U.S. by the Dalai Lama next month and the coming holiday season, bring more opportunities for carrying this momentum of peace. Please help us move this commitment for peace around the globe. Share your thoughts and plans on our Facebook page.