Message of: Fr. James Channan OP
URI Regional Coordinator Asia/Pakistan
Prior Vice Provincial, Ibne-e-Mariam, Vice Province Pakistan.

I feel deeply honored to have this opportunity of sending a message to the Symphony of Peace Prayers being held today, the 18th of May 2008, at Fuji Sanctuary. In my mind I can see all of you, thousand of people ------ doves of
peace----gathered at Fuji Sanctuary to join in this ceremony, coming from various religions, cultures, nationalities, and backgrounds, you have traveled from near and far to participate in this unique ceremony, manifesting your dedication to peace.  I am very much impressed by all of you and your commitment to bringing positive change to the world, making it more humane and peaceful. As Mahaatma Ghandi said, “Be the change that you want to see in the world. “This is exactly what you are doing.

I cannot begin to express in words how happy I am to hear that you are offering peace prayers in the national languages of 192 countries, and also that you are flying the flags of all these nations high in the air.  I am sure many people share my feelings when I say how wonderful it is for me to hear this prayer spoken in my own national language. Your love and your wish for peace have no boundaries.

Peace is of prime importance in the world and in fact, throughout the universe.  There is a need for harmony, peaceful coexistence, and respect for all human beings and nature. There us a need to say “No” to war, violence, hatred, and terrorism and “Yes” to peace, non-violence, and respect for all.

Byakko Shinko Kai is creating positive change not only in Japan but around the world. I can feel the vibrations of peace, and I am absolutely certain that it is being felt all around the world at this very time.

The people of Pakistan join with you in this peace ceremony. Thousands of school children and teachers are holding special ceremonies simultaneously with the Symphony of Peace Prayers being held at Fuji Sanctuary.

I highly admire and salute the great leadership of Mrs. Masami Saionji, Chairperson of Byakko Shinko Kai, the Goi Peace Foundation, and the World Peace Prayer Society for doing such a marvelous work to promote peace and harmony in the world.  This is what we all need, especially in those countries which are being torn apart by hatred, terrorism and violence. Let us give a message to the world that peace is possible.

May Peace Prevail on Earth!