This age of globalization needs enlightened people in each faith who can examine their sacred writings and traditions and identify the aspects that can benefit all humanity as well as those that preserve each religion's identity. Our challenge is to honor the Divine indwelling in a way that encourages understanding, respect, and cooperation among people of all faiths for the well-being of our communities and peace in the world.

The first week of February every year was designated World Interfaith Harmony Week by an October 20, 2010 resolution of the United Nations General Assembly at the initiative of King Abdullah II of Jordan. Its motto is "Love of God and Love of the Neighbor" / "Love of the Good and Love of the Neighbor."

An observance took place February 7, 2012 in the UN General Assembly Hall. The President of the 66th Session of the General Assembly, H.E. Mr. Nassir Abdulaziz Al-Nasser, said in announcing the event: "In our conflict-ridden world, I believe it is important to recognize the historical good done by people of all faiths in many of the areas of the work of the United Nations as well as the current successful partnerships in various parts of the world between UN agencies and religious groups particularly in meeting the humanitarian needs of disaster-stricken people." This was the first observance of World Interfaith Harmony Week at the UN headquarters. [Read more]

Reports of UPF events in 2012,  2011

Resources for World Interfaith Harmony Week observances:

• Prayers from various religions and readings from sacred scriptures (English, Russian)
• Readings for interfaith ceremonies: Lighting Candles for Peace, Water of Life
• Show a documentary film about interfaith peacebuilding, followed by a group discussion
• United Religions Initiative tool card (suggested activities for individuals and groups)

For more background information about World Interfaith Harmony Week, click here.

World Interfaith Harmony Week 2012