29 Jan2020
Bringing Harmony to the World through Interfaith
The United Nations (UN) observes February 1 to 7 as World Interfaith Harmony Week. It was first proposed at the UN General Assembly on September 23, 2010 by H.M. King Abdullah II of Jordan. A month later, on October 20, 2010, it was unanimously adopted by the UN.
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World Interfaith Harmony Week originates from The Common Word initiative. This initiative called for Muslim and Christian leaders to engage in a relationship and conversation based on two fundamental religious commandments: Love of God, and Love of the Neighbor.
The objective behind this week is to create an opportunity to bring unity among those who share the values of loving God and others, to become aware of each other’s efforts, and to build ties with one another. It is hoped that through a week of discussion and connection, people will recognize their common values rather than their differences, and be able to experience peace and harmony among one another.
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World Interfaith Harmony Week is a perfect way to connect with other people of faith and similar values. How can you bring awareness to this week of harmony and celebrate these values? Here are some ideas:
Host a discussion luncheon
Enjoy lunch with coworkers or friends who share different religious orientations and initiate a dialogue about any similar values that you all share. With so many ways to connect and love our Heavenly Parent, a discussion is a perfect way to learn about how all people of faith express their relationship with God.
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Plan a service project
What better way to love your neighbor than to do something for them out of service? Talk with your local pastor about arranging a service project to help the neighborhood. Some project ideas include picking up trash, organizing a clothing drive or bake sale, planting a community garden, or assisting neighbors in raking leaves or shoveling snow.
Bring awareness
Planning a project isn’t always easy with a busy schedule. A simpler way to acknowledge World Interfaith Harmony Week is to start a conversation and bring awareness to those around you. Many people are unaware of World Interfaith Harmony Week and the efforts that seek to bring unity among people of faith.
Take time to celebrate this week of interfaith and harmony with others! Sharing about your own efforts with friends or family is a great way to uplift their spirits and to express love and devotion toward our Heavenly Parent.