International Day of Prayer for Peace – 21 September 2015

National Council of Churches in India

Commission on Justice, Peace and Creation

The World Council of Churches calls the global churches and faith communities to observe the International Day of Prayer for Peace on the 21 September which is also the United Nations-sponsored International Day of Peace. The Commission on Justice, Peace and Creation of the National Council of Churches in India joining its members in  observing the same by organizing special programmes, worships, candle light vigils and prayers and on 21 September every year to observe the International Prayer Day for Peace.

The International Day of Prayer for Peace offers an opportunity for church and faith communities in all places to pray and act together to nurture lasting peace in the hearts of people, their families, communities and societies.

The idea was proposed in 2004 during a meeting between WCC general and UN Secretary General and coincides with the UN International Day of Peace.

This year, the Commission organises a special event on the theme ‘Peace and Dignity on Earth’ from Tribal and Adivasi perspective  in Ranchi in partnership with Student Christian Movement of India – Bihar –Jharkhand Area, CNI – Ranchi Diocese HPTC and the Christian Service Agency on the 21^st September 2015 (Monday). Dr. Sushant Agrawal, Director – CASA would be the Speaker and Bishop Taranath S Sagar, President is the Guest of Honour. Rev. Dr. Roger Gaikwad, General Secretary – NCCI and Mr. Inbaraj Jeyakumar, General Secretary – SCMI would also grace the occasion. A Tribal Student Group will perform cultural items on the theme.

The Commission also requests all the members Churches, Institutions and the Regional Council to observe this ‘International Prayer Day for Peace.

The International Payer Day for Peace  is a day on which armed conflict is meant to be stilled, a day for combatants to observe cease-fires, a day on which all people are invited to commit or reaffirm their commitment to non-violence and the peaceful resolution of disputes.

Let us join our prayers together to pray for the world peace by remembering the victims of the conflicts globally and locally. Let us also take-up the peace making ministry as part of our mission agenda.

Blessed are the Peacemakers

                                                  With Prayers,

Fr. Aswin Fernandis                                  Rev. R. Christopher Rajkumar

Chairperson                                                                       Executive Secretary