Vancouver Group Voices Concern over Attacks on Religion

Vancouver, Canada – A seminar on the theme “Religious Faith under Attack Worldwide” brought together a group of people who share a concern about this issue, on September 28, 2025, in Vancouver. In his presentation, Mr. Alan Wilding, director of UPF-Western Canada, surveyed the state of religious persecution globally, with a focus on the current detention of UPF co-founder Dr. Hak Ja Han in South Korea.

Dr. Stephen Adikwu, a geologist by profession and an ambassador for peace, shared about religious conflict in his native Nigeria between Muslims and Christians. Ms. Hannah Ratnam testified about having to flee to Canada from Pakistan with her whole family because of persecution due to their Christian faith. She has written a book and a film script about her experiences, called Hannah’s Dream. Ms. Christelle Raman Reti, a former Hare Krishna devotee, also gave a moving testimony about her life of faith.

Dr. Katsumi Kambashi, pastor at Family Federation for World Peace Vancouver and Western Canada, offered his observations and remarks, having just returned from South Korea. Rev. Larry Krisnek, senior pastor from Bellingham, Washington, also provided significant comments.

Mr. Benjamin Takeawoa, assistant director of UPF-Vancouver and a key organizer of the event, presented Ms. Ratnam with an Ambassador for Peace certificate.

By Alan Wilding, Director, UPF-Western Canada September 28, 2025