Churches Observe International Day of Prayer for Peace

Sept 21, 2004 marks the first time the world’s ecumenical communities joins the United Nations in observing the International Day of Prayer for Peace
By Pauline J. Chang

Sept 21, 2004 marks the first time the world’s ecumenical communities joins the United Nations in observing the International Day of Prayer for Peace. In coordinating the day of prayer, Christian leaders from various theological backgrounds offered short broadcast messages for view, churches around the world scheduled small 24-hour vigils, and several cities created public fairs, art contests, educational programs and entertainment related to the makings of peace.

The Rev. Samuel Kobia, General Secretary of the World Council of Churches, explained the reason for a joint WCC-UN observance as “one way to combine the strength and witness of churches and faith communities with the strength of the many forces in the international community who are also striving to promote peace and justice in our troubled world.”

“We hope and pray this common observance will make the power and promise of peace more tangible for all who feel desperate by the continuing violence and injustices and look for signs of hope. Let us join in the prayer chosen by the WCC for its 9th Assembly : “God , in your grace, transform the world,”” Kobia addressed to the WCC member churches.

According to the WCC, millions of Christians from all traditions – evangelical, ecumenical, Pentecostal and Catholic, will be joining in the 24-hour observance.

The International Day of Peace began in 1981 upon the passage of a United Nations General Assembly resolution. In 2001, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a separate resolution that declared Sept 21 as the official International Day of Peace.

This year, the goal of the day of prayer is "to encourage worldwide, 24-hour spiritual observations for peace and nonviolence on the International Day of Peace, Tuesday, 21 September 2004 in every house of worship and place of spiritual practice, by all religious and spiritually based groups and individuals, and by all men, women and children who seek peace in the world,” according to the UN.

More than a dozen two-minute video messages by numerous Christian leaders and peace-advocates have been posted online at the WCC’s affiliated website: http://www.overcomingviolence.org/peace2004

    Most Popular
  • Is 'The Last Supper' worth watching? Audience and critics weigh in

    Is 'The Last Supper' worth watching? Audience and critics weigh in

    Faith-based films often receive mixed reactions, and The Last Supper is no exception. The movie attempts to bring a fresh perspective to one of the most iconic moments in Christian history, but does it succeed? Some reviews from critics and audiences provide insight into its strengths and shortcomings.

  • ‘The Chosen’ Season 5: The darkest season yet—What to know before watching

    The wait is over—The Chosen is back with its fifth season, and this time, things are getting intense. The new episodes dive straight into the final days of Jesus’ life, covering some of the most emotional and dramatic moments in the Bible. If you’ve been following the series, you already know that The Chosen isn’t just about retelling familiar stories—it’s about bringing them to life in a way that feels real.

  • Massacres in Syria: Over 1,000 dead, including Christians and Alawites

    Syria’s coastal regions have been devastated by a series of massacres, with reports indicating that over 1,000 people—many from Christian and Alawite communities—have been killed in brutal attacks. Entire families have been wiped out, and survivors are fleeing in search of safety as sectarian violence escalates.

  • Kim Sae-ron and Wheesung: The tragic irony of Korean society and the principles of happiness

    Not long ago, the media was in an uproar over actress Kim Sae-ron’s passing. Just months before, the same people who had relentlessly criticized her for her DUI incident were now expressing sympathy, saying, "The world was too harsh on her." The irony is impossible to ignore.

  • Newsboys move forward as a quartet after Michael Tait’s departure

    After more than a decade as the lead singer of the Newsboys, Michael Tait has officially parted ways with the band, marking a significant shift in the Christian rock group’s lineup. The remaining members—Jeff Frankenstein, Jody Davis, Duncan Phillips, and Adam Agee—have assured fans that they will continue forward, embracing a new season of music and ministry.

Top Stories