ALC Discusses Building a Peaceful Community

In preparation for the upcoming Peace Starts With Me rally on November 12, the New Jersey branches of Universal Peace Federation (UPF) and Family Federation for a Heavenly USA hosted an American Leadership Conference on October 27, at the Elizabeth Family Church, where more than 30 local Christians and Muslims gathered.

The topic of discussion centered on the theme of “Building a Community and Society beyond the Borders of Race and Religion.” The conference raised the questions: “Why is living for the sake of others so important?” and “How can we balance the secular and sacred dimensions of culture?” Other topics covered were “Creating harmony between races, religions and nations” and “Original human value: The foundation for human rights.”

Rev. Ricardo de Sena, President of UPF-USA, gave a brief presentation on the mission of the organization and the operating principles in achieving its ultimate goal – genuine and lasting peace. Mr. Carlos Cabrera, President of Junior Chambers International (JCI) Philippines New York, concluded that love is the basic yet most important value in building a peaceful society and community. He stressed that “living for the sake of others” is expressed by loving one another regardless of differences.

Sister Renee from the Nation of Islam emphasized strongly that creating harmony between races, religions and nations starts with self-respect and respecting others. Everyone was in agreement that truly “peace starts with me.”

The program concluded with a Call to Action by Rev. Alain Tamelessio, Executive Director of UPF New Jersey. He extended an invitation to everyone to attend the Peace Starts With Me rally on November 12 at the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Long Island, New York. Everyone sang “Where Peace Begins” and “God Bless America” as they proceeded to an early dinner and fellowship.