Lisbon Celebration Lauds Interfaith Peacemakers

Lisbon, Portugal – A symposium on the theme "Bridges of Peace, Sustainability, and Global Solidarity," hosted by UPF-Portugal at the Embassy of Peace in Lisbon on November 15, 2025, drew over 70 participants, despite heavy rain and competing events in the same area. While commemorating the International Day of Peace and UPF’s 20th anniversary, the event aimed to strengthen interreligious dialogue, consolidate partnerships, and promote a vision of peace, sustainability, and global responsibility.

The secretary of UPF-Portugal, Dr. Ana Paula Berto, opened the celebrations, followed by the president, Dr. Sérgio Vieira, who introduced UPF’s mission and work.

A highlight of the event was the launch of an educational project that aims to inspire social transformation, themed Passport to Peace: Citizen of the World Who Loves Peace. Guest speakers included Grand Prior D. Massimo Maria Civale, of the International Templar Confederation of San Bernardo, who travelled from Italy specifically for this celebration, and spoke about the historical role of spirituality in building bridges between peoples.        

Former member of the Assembly of the Republic, Prof. Ilda Araújo Novo, shared a reflective speech on the fragility of a world in conflict. Sustainability consultant Dr. Jeanne Oliveira addressed the theme of sustainability as a bridge that connects people, communities, and the future. To conclude, Prof. Dr. Nuno André gave a presentation titled, "From the power of words to the silence of peace."

Eight new ambassadors for peace were appointed, all distinguished personalities recognized for their commitment to harmony and the construction of a more just society. They included Grand Prior D. Massimo Civale and his wife, Grand Dame Giuseppina Granato; Grand Prior Dom João Pela; Grand Prior Dom Nuno Henriques Barroso; Dr. Amir Shayesteh Tabar; Dr. Fernanda Gonçalves; Prof. Luísa Fernandes; and Pastor Paula Salvado Garcia.

The event also featured the presentation of The Dove of Peace, dedicated to Pope Francis and awarded to significant public figures who work for peace.

An interfaith water ceremony followed, representing purification, reconciliation, and a shared commitment to peace, uniting representatives of diverse religious traditions in a collective act of spiritual harmony. The simultaneous presence of these leaders reinforced the central message of the assembly, that peace is built when different spiritual paths meet in a common intention.

Another highlight was the recognition of UPF leaders by the Order of the Knights of Monsanto. In an atmosphere of profound historical respect, the title of Honorary Templar Knight was conferred upon Dr. Sérgio Vieira and Mr. Moreno Berto for their contributions towards the work and mission of UPF-Portugal. This ceremony underscored the mutual recognition between traditions and institutions that value service to humanity.

This was followed by the signing of a Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation between the Templar Order of D. Massimo Civale and UPF-Portugal, and also between the Order of Grand Master D. Nuno Henriques Barroso and the Order of Grand Master D. Massimo Civale. These alliances were sealed with the presentation of the Order of Christ Medal, symbolizing a commitment to collaboration and reconciliation between these historically significant institutions.

The event continued with the reading and signing of the 2025 Peace Declaration, a guiding document of UPF-Portugal that reaffirms the commitment to reconciliation, cooperation, and global responsibility. The participants' signing of the document reinforced the community's sense of purpose and the importance of joint actions towards lasting peace.

A moment of awareness was offered regarding the religious persecution of Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon, co-founder of UPF, followed by a special tribute to her. Her life of dedication to serving humanity was recognized with words of appreciation and support, given her current challenging circumstances.

At special intervals during the program participants were treated to the excellent songs and voices of UPF’s international Pure Water Choir, finishing with the famous song “Every Praise.”

This gathering significantly strengthened UPF-Portugal's presence in the national interreligious and civic arena, renewing participants' commitment to dialogue, cooperation, and reconciliation. The afternoon concluded with a strong sense of hope, gratitude, and determination to continue building bridges of peace and global solidarity among peoples, communities, and future generations.

By Sérgio Vieira, President, UPF-Portugal November 15, 2025