World Peace Day Event, Hawai’i
Written by : Donna Shaver
On September 27, 2025, the Women’s Federation for World Peace (WFWP) Hawaiʻi Chapter, in partnership with the Universal Peace Federation (UPF), hosted a vibrant celebration of the International World Day of Peace at the Hawaiian Mission Academy Ka Lama Iki in Honolulu. Originally scheduled for September 20, the event was postponed due to a scheduling conflict, allowing organizers extra time to prepare a meaningful program. Fifty participants attended, including guests, FFWPU members, and WFWP members, all united by a shared commitment to peace.
The celebration featured the presentation of Ambassador for Peace Certificates to Dr. Thomas and Dr. Cynthia Lynch, Mr. Roger Epstein, Pastor Samuel Samuelu, Mr. Bob McDermott, and Mr. Edward Young Jr. Each recipient shared inspiring reflections on their work for peace and community service. A video message from Senator Mike Gabbard highlighted the values of aloha (love in action), pono (doing what is right), laulima (many hands working together), and maluhia (peace), encouraging participants to embrace dialogue, dignity, and reconciliation. Former House Representative Bob McDermott delivered a keynote address emphasizing humility, faith, and compassion as foundations for lasting peace, while Rev. Nakama presented the Universal Peace Federation’s Five Principles of Peace.
The program also included interfaith scripture readings and musical performances celebrating harmony and unity. The Song Team performed “Heal the World” and “Where Peace Begins – One Family Under God,” while Donna Shaver’s rendition of “From a Distance” added a reflective and uplifting tone. Attendees were introduced to the mission of WFWP through inspirational quotes from Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon, reinforcing the global vision of peace.
In addition to the program, WFWP and FFWPU/UPF members prepared origami peace crane ornaments as souvenirs, symbolizing unity and hope. Guided by Mrs. Yoshiko Ikawa, participants created ornaments featuring two small cranes and a larger decorated crane with beads, bells, and a tassel. Each attendee received one as a keepsake, displayed at the WFWP/UPF table alongside informational materials. Event programs and flyers were designed by Yoshie Yamada.
The celebration concluded with a luncheon, offering attendees an opportunity to connect, exchange ideas, and discuss potential future collaborations. Guests enjoyed a variety of dishes prepared by FFWPU mothers, reinforcing the theme that “food is love” and fostering a warm sense of community.
Pastor Jeff reflected that the program went smoothly despite the rescheduling, highlighting the heartfelt speeches of the Ambassadors for Peace, the memorable origami gifts, and the engaging fellowship. He noted that while broader participation across generations is a goal for future events, the collaboration between WFWP, UPF, and FFWPU successfully brought together a diverse group committed to peace.
The 2025 International World Day of Peace Celebration in Hawaiʻi was a memorable and inspiring event, exemplifying aloha, unity, and hope. Through interfaith dialogue, music, recognition of peace leaders, and meaningful fellowship, the event strengthened existing relationships and laid a strong foundation for future peace-building initiatives in Hawaiʻi and beyond.
