On September 20, 2026, the Universal Peace Federation in Iceland commemorated the United Nations International Day of Peace with an interreligious gathering in Reykjavík. Participants included representatives of the Lutheran and Catholic Churches, Buddhists represented by Soka Gakkai, two Muslim communities, the Humanists, and members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, altogether 31 participants. The varied contributions from the different communities, including musical performances, helped create a warm and open atmosphere.
A representative of the Lutheran Church served as Master of Ceremonies and guided us through the program. One of the central elements of the event was the 'Bridge of Peace' ceremony, which encouraged personal encounters and helped foster new friendships. The main theme of the gathering was to overcome barriers between people—barriers that often arise from lack of knowledge, fear, or media portrayals. Through personal encounters, dialogue, and mutual respect, we sought to encourage greater understanding and a spirit of love for one another.
In the concluding part of the program, Rohan Nandkisore, Secretary General of UPF Iceland, also introduced the peace vision of UPF’s founders. The meaning of the ideal of a peaceful world, termed “Cheon Il Guk” in Korean by the founders, was explained through Kanji characters, including the concept of two people becoming one. This offered participants an insight into the founders’ vision of peace and human unity.
After about three hours, the event concluded with a shared buffet, which provided further opportunity for personal conversation. The feedback from participants was very positive. At the same time, this type of event is not an end in itself, but rather a beginning. The real value lies in allowing initial contacts to develop into lasting relationships. The participating communities are therefore encouraged to visit one another, deepen their understanding, and build genuine, natural friendships beyond this specific event. In this way, the idea of peace can extend beyond a single day and take root in everyday life, helping to build a more peaceful, open, and humane society.
The main religious representatives were:
- Kristin Tomasdóttir, Lutheran Church in Selfoss, MC
- Elder Mogenhan, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
- Oussama, Representative of Sunni Islam
- Imam Mansoor Malik, Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat
- Alexandra K Adilov, the Soka Gakkai International Buddhist Association in Iceland
- April Frigge, Director of the Pontifical Mission, the Catholic Church of Iceland