Jessica Morgan:
In a compelling display of spiritual solidarity and moral clarity, religious leaders from multiple faith traditions gathered virtually for the 297th Interfaith Prayer for the Nation and the World, organized by the Universal Peace Federation – USA (UPF-USA) on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at 1:00 PM EST. The long-running interfaith event once again brought together diverse voices committed to peace, unity, and justice, reaffirming the organization’s mission to foster global understanding through faith.
The event was opened by Rev. Barry Geller, Executive Director of UPF – Subregion Northeast, who highlighted the legacy of over five years of weekly interfaith prayer sessions. Rev. William Stoner served as the emcee, offering reflections on the spiritual and historical roots of the UPF, and honoring its founders, Rev. Sun Myung Moon and Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon, for their dedication to interreligious harmony and global peacebuilding.
Rev. Prescott Butler, former pastor of the Irvington and Orange United Methodist Churches and chaplain to several organizations in New Jersey, delivered a powerful address on the United Methodist social principles on peace. “Peace is rooted in justice, not merely the absence of war,” he said. Drawing from both scripture and contemporary realities, Rev. Butler stressed that true peace is built when human dignity is respected and systemic inequality is addressed. “Peace begins within the heart,” he said, echoing the words of the prophet Micah: “Do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God.”
Imam Muhammad Shahidullah, Executive Member of the NYC OPHC Interfaith Council and County Liaison for the NYS Office of Faith & Non-Profit Development Services, offered reflections grounded in the Qur’an and the life of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). “God created every single creation with purpose,” he said, emphasizing themes of divine mercy, justice, and human accountability. He called on attendees to stand for justice—“even against ourselves”—and urged people of all faiths to approach one another with respect, dialogue, and love. “Peace starts from me,” he added, aligning the message with both Islamic teachings and UPF’s motto.
Rabbi Sara Hadassah, a Jewish spiritual leader and expert in social and political systems, explored the deep meaning of Shalom, the Hebrew word for peace. “Shalom is not just peace; it is wholeness, spiritual light, and freedom,” she explained. She linked this sacred concept to other faith greetings such as Salaam Alaikum, and emphasized that peace is a “pillar that will not die on this planet nor in the cosmos.” Her words urged global prayers for all persecuted faith leaders, including Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon, whom she described as “a progenitor of peace and a spiritual mother to many.”
Dr. Michael Jenkins, President of UPF International and UPF North America, closed the program with gratitude and a message of interfaith reflection. “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you,” he quoted from John 14:27, highlighting how both Biblical and Quranic teachings point toward peace as a divine gift and personal responsibility.
As the world faces increasing divisions, the 297th Interfaith Prayer gathering stood as a beacon of shared hope. It reminded all in attendance that while faith traditions may differ in form, they converge in the call for love, mercy, and peace—beginning not just in policies, but within the human heart.
For more blogs, visit nyn.press
