Iceland Interfaith Community Shares Warm & Joyful Day of Peace
- khwang562
- Sep 21
- 2 min read
Reykjavík, Iceland – Representatives of Iceland’s interfaith community enthusiastically joined with UPF-Iceland in celebrating the UN International Day of Peace at Hotel Orkin in Reykjavík on September 21, 2025.
At the suggestion of Ms. Mirela Protopapa, the Bahá’í representative, participants were seated in a circle rather than in a traditional classroom arrangement – a change that was warmly welcomed. The program featured not only speeches, but also songs and poems. Children contributed through singing and dancing, bringing joyful and diverse energy to the gathering.
The MC was Ms. Mahdya Malik, wife of Mr. Monsoor Malik, leader of Iceland’s Ahmadiyya Muslim community, whose presence added a special charm to the event. Her children delighted the audience with their spontaneous, natural comments about their parents and the presentations, giving everyone a glimpse into a hopeful future for Iceland.
Mr. Bjarni Randver Sigurvinsson, an interreligious scholar and teacher, and spokesman for the National Church, praised the late Rev. Sun Myung Moon for his longstanding commitment to peace. He highlighted the Day of Peace as a valuable platform for interreligious dialogue.
Mr. Oussama Idriss Mabrouk of the Grand Mosque of Iceland explained that the meaning of Islam encompasses peace, justice, and mercy for human beings of all faiths, and illustrated several expressions of mercy that Muslims are expected to provide to non-Muslims.
Ms. Eyglo Jonsdottir, writer and poet, and general director of Soka Gakkai, recited a poem by Daisaku Ikeda, former president of Soka Gakkai International, titled “Peace – The Foundation for Lasting Human Happiness.”
The Philippines Consul Ms. Priscilla Zanoria, speaking on behalf of the Catholic Church, moved the audience with a heartfelt rendition of “Let There Be Peace on Earth.” Before long, the entire assembly joined in, creating a fitting close to the formal part of the program.
The celebration continued with a Bridge of Peace ceremony, providing strangers with the opportunity to form new friendships. The hall filled with a spirit of warmth and love, which only deepened as the food was shared. It was difficult for many to part ways, as they savored the experience of peace and fellowship.
