The International Day of Peace
September 21, 2014 

Dear Friends,

               Once again, The Interfaith Peace Project is pleased to participate in the worldwide observance of the International Day of Peace (September 21).  As the attached brochure (Click Here) emphasizes, the peace we seek is not a far off dream but a treasure we can access in the present moment.

              We do this by recognizing how we react to an unkind word deciding to understand rather than return the unkindness.  We practice peace when we observe how frustrated we become when hearing the daily news.  It is then that we seek to become aware of the root causes of violence working in any way we can to redress the injustice.

              It is crucial for us to participate in civic, governmental, and cultural events challenging others to realize that working for peace is our precious responsibility as humans seeking to become humane.

              Our religious and spiritual practices, beliefs, and philosophies must reflect the Golden Rule of treating others as we desire to be treated.  We must guard ourselves against beliefs that demonize others rather than bless all.

              The violence and uncertainty so many people suffer throughout the World is quite alarming causing many to question if the pursuit of peace makes sense.  Consider the many children, women, and men who, throughout the centuries, rose up in the cause of justice and peace.  Yes, ours is a dangerous and uncertain time but now is the time to pursue and practice peace when it is so deeply needed by so many.  Think of how many people you can influence with your kindness and understanding in one day.  

              In the past, the great peacemakers worked in times of strife and upheaval.  We are invited to do the same.  This is what we know for sure:  if we do nothing, the violence will increase; if we respond in constructive and meaningful ways, we might bring about a World blessed with peace.  The outcome is uncertain to be sure but the moral demands are clear.

              The Interfaith Peace Project will continue to work in the cause of peace born out of justice supporting the courage of anyone who practices what is humane and compassionate.

              The attached brochure (Click Here) is offered to you as an aid throughout the year encouraging you to develop your skillful practice of peace in all the affairs of your life. 

             I join with the Board of Directors, the Advisory Board, and all our volunteers in thanking you for all your efforts in the cause of justice and peace.

 Peacefully,

Thomas P. Bonacci, C.P.
Director, The Interfaith Peace Project

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The Interfaith Peace Project is Observing
The International Day of Peace
in Three Different Venues:

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church
120 E J St
Benicia, CA 94510

Rev. Thomas P. Bonacci, C.P. will be preaching the 8:45 am and 11:00 am Services
Interfaith Seminar at 10:00 am: “The Christian Basis for Interfaith Work and Ministry”

The Interfaith Council of Rossmoor – Private Event
Rossmoor Walnut Creek

Tom will deliver a Keynote address:
“The Principles of Respectful Dialogue:
Peace-Making in the Midst of Conflict and Division”

The International Day of Peace Concert:
       “And on that day …
                         A Prayer for Peace”
                                      A Concert for Peace

Mount Diablo Unitarian Universalist Church
55 Eckley Lane
Walnut Creek, CA
7:00 – 8:30 pm

Co-sponsored by:
The Interfaith Council of Contra Costa County
Mount Diablo Peace Center
Interfaith Council at the Presidio, San Francisco, CA
The Interfaith Peace Project, Pittsburg, CA

Remember, every day is an opportunity to practice peace in all the affairs of our lives!