Universal Peace Federation in Sri Lanka inaugurated
 

by S.J. Jeyakumar, Bambalapitiya Correspondent

Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon speaking to a large crowd at the Colombo Plaza on November 24. emphasized that the most important thing in life is our lineage. It was more important than love and life, he said, because lineage allows love and life to continue from generation to generation.

When we value lineage and family, as is the Asian tradition, it helps us change our perspective and focus in life from self-cantered to other-cantered. We then find value in living for the sake of other, more than just for personal self-aggrandizement.

Over 750 people from throughout the island and from all persuasions, both religious and political, listened respectively as Father Moon poured out his heart and love for this island nation for nearly two hours. This event marks the inauguration of the Sri Lankan chapter of the newly established Universal Peace Federation.

The launch of this global peace initiative is being carried out in world tour of 67 nations covering 100 cities. It started on Sept. 12 at Lincoln Center in New York City during the 60th anniversary of the United Nations and will conclude Dec. 24. Dr. Moon is 86 years old and one wonders how, at this age, he can maintain this gruelling schedule.

Dr. Moon acknowledged that the United Nations was established with the hope of bringing peace on earth and that is has made many contribution bettering the world of human affairs. But, speaking from the experience from his homeland of Korea and other hotspots around the world, he said that they UN peace-keeping forces often withdrew before peace was secured. To support the UN in its efforts to establish world peace he launched the Federation. It is backed by more than 50,000 Ambassadors for Peace from more than 180 nations.

President Mahinda Rajapakse, issuing a congratulatory message commented that "It is simply amazing that at the age of 86, Dr. Moon is travelling to 100 cities in 67 nations in an extraordinary effort to promote a culture of peace". Former President D.B. Wijethunge and Former Prime Minister and Opposition Leader Ranil Wickremesinghe issued similar messages to appreciate his efforts.

Guest speakers on the program included prominent Sri Lankans the Ven. Dr. Kotte Pannindria Thera who offered Greetings. Welcoming Remarks were presented by the Speaker of Parliament W.J.M. Lokubandara, who noted that this was Dr. Moon's first trip to Sri Lanka. Ambassador D.L. Mendis introduced the Founder of the Universal Peace Federation, Dr. Moon. "World Peace in the 21st Century" was the topic Dr. Baptist Croos addressed.

The cultural program, which included "Friends in Harmony" and the Musaeus College dance troupe led by Mrs. Veesha de Silva managed to entertain the audience until end of the program.