The inter-religious international conference "Peace among the people" in Wuppertal was closed on July 16, 2017 by a pilgrimage for peace and justice starting from the conference centre on the holy mountain in Barmen to the city church in Elberfeld.
The approximately 80 representatives of Christian, Muslim and Buddhist communities from 13 countries agreed on a joint message at the end of the conference. The participants stated that the religious convictions of others shall be treated with respect and in a positive and peace-building way. Discrimination of people because of their faith, conviction, gender and orientation is clearly rejected. The message encourages to cross borders between people of different religions and cultures by encounters, dialogues, bridge-building measure, and also by promoting education and knowledge about the different faiths in order to empower the members, and especially young people of other communities.
The representatives committed themselves to continue the dialogue and practical cooperation for peace and justice within and beyond their respective contexts. Based on their spiritual resources they will contribute to the transformation of their societies towards inclusive communities, embracing diversity, gender justice and caring for the integrity of creation. Besides, efforts shall be made to contribute to overcome poverty and exploitation by promoting fair trade and sustainable development. Finally, all religious leaders and politicians are reminded of their duty to create peace and justice and also the media shall remember their responsibility not to fuel prejudices and hatred.
Download the complete message of the conference.
The pilgrimage led to the city church in Wuppertal where the conference was closed with a joint inter-religious peace prayer.
Martina Pauly
spenden@vemission.org
0202-89004-195