The Universal Peace Federation of Portugal hosted the symposium "Bridges of Peace, Sustainability, and Global Solidarity" at the Embassy of Peace in Lisbon, on 15 November 2025, commemorating the International Day of Peace and the 20th Anniversary of the Universal Peace Federation (UPF). Despite heavy rain and simultaneous with two other important interfaith events held in the same area and also in partnership with UPF Portugal, over seventy people attended, exceeding initial expectations. The occasion aimed to strengthen interreligious dialogue, consolidate partnerships, and promote a vision of peace, sustainability, and global responsibility.
Dr. Ana Paula Berto, Secretary UPF Portugal, opened the celebrations. The first speaker was Dr. Sérgio Vieira, President UPF Portugal, who gave an introduction of the Federation’s mission and its work.
A highlight of the event was the launching of the educational project "Passport to Peace: Citizen of the World Who Loves Peace", inspiring social transformation. 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.ª Ilda Araújo Novo, shared a reflective speech on the fragility and conflicts of the global world. Sustainability consultant, Dra. Jeanne Oliveira, addressed the theme "Sustainability as a bridge between people, communities, and the future". To conclude, Prof. Dr. Nuno André gave a presentation on the subject matter "From the power of words to the silence of peace".
On this occasion, eight new Ambassadors for Peace were appointed; distinguished personalities recognised for their commitment to harmony and the construction of a more just society. Among those nominated were Grand Prior Massimo Civale and his wife, Grand Dame Giuseppina Granato, Grand Prior Dom João Pela, Grand Prior Dom Nuno Henriques Barroso, Dr. Amir Shayesteh Tabar, Dra. Fernanda Gonçalves, Prof. Dra. Luísa Fernandes, and Pastor Paula Salvado Garcia.
The event also featured the presentation of the International Prize "The Dove of Peace", dedicated to Pope Francis and awarded to significant public figures who worked for peace.
The Water Ceremony followed, conducted as a symbolic gesture 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 - peace is built when different spiritual paths meet in a common intention.
One of the afternoon's highlights was the public distinction promoted 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 contribution towards the work and mission of UPF Portugal. This ceremony underscored the mutual recognition between traditions and institutions that value service to humanity.
Another moment of great relevance was the signing of the 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. This alliance was sealed with the public presentation of the "Order of Christ Medal", symbolising 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 raised regarding the religious persecution of, followed by a special tribute to, the co-founder of the Universal Peace Federation, Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon, whose life of dedication to serving humanity was recognised with words of appreciation and support, given her current challenging circumstances.
At special intervals during the programme all present had the privilege of listening to the excellent songs and voices of the Federation’s young international The 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.