“Welcome the Peace” Ceremony, World Love and Peace Bell rings in Pisa, Italy
In an era marked by sustainable development challenges, global conflicts, and specter of climate change, Federation of World Peace and Love (FOWPAL) remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting global peace through cultural exchange. On May 9, 2024, in Pisa, Italy, the World Love and Peace Bell Ringing Ceremony convened. The Mayor of Pisa, Michele Conti, and the Director of Culture, Dr. Filippo Bedini, rang the peace bell to pray for the city of Pisa and citizens around the world. Mayor Conti honored Dr. Hong, Tao-Tze, FOWPAL's president and Tai Ji Men's leader, with commemorative books and gifts. The event also welcomed Massimo Introvigne, founder of the Italian Center for the Study of Emerging Religions (CESNUR), and Rosita Šorytė, a member of the Scientific Committee of the European Association for Freedom of Belief (FOB), and her husband.
The bell-ringing ceremony took place in the City Hall of Pisa, renowned for its rich cultural and historical heritage. Mayor Michele Conti underlined Pisa’s profound legacy, stressing its pivotal role in global peace advocacy. He shared his feelings about ringing the World Love and Peace Bell and emphasized that despite different cultures, peace is everyone’s consensus. Mayor Conti presented Dr. Hong with commemorative books and a gift featuring the emblem of the city of Pisa. The significance of the gift lied in introducing the culture and deeds of Pisa, representing this city with a history of thousands of years.
Dr. Filippo Bedini shared his understanding of peace, emphasizing that peace should not be taken for granted and must be vigorously protected. He believed that even in nations untouched by historical conflicts, such as Italy, the importance of continually promoting peace should be upheld. He expressed hope that FOWPAL can continue to disseminate such messages of peace and inspire similar peaceful initiatives worldwide.
The two leaders, along with Dr. Hong signed the "Declaration of World Day of the Power of Hope" and rang the peace bell. Mayor Michele Conti expressed his hope for the message of peace to spread from Pisa to the world, while Filippo Bedini emphasized that only justice can truly bring about peace! Dr. Hong presented a Certificate of Appreciation for Cultural Exchange, expressing gratitude to Mayor Michele Conti for his steadfast support in promoting global peace. FOWPAL volunteers sang "We Can Change the World" and led the distinguished guests in a prayer for global peace. Andrea Gasperini, a former lawyer who witnessed the ceremony, found it profoundly moving, particularly the bell-ringing, which symbolized the dispelling of negative energy with its sacred significance. He emphasized the importance of such aspirations for a better future and the strength they impart.
Wayne, a volunteer and a landscape designer, shared that ringing the peace bell in the culturally rich Pisa City Hall to bring peace to the area holds significant meaning. He believed that infusing the joyful and blessed energy of peace brought by the delegation can plant seeds of goodness in the hearts of local residents. He also hoped that through experiencing the beauty of peace, everyone could strive towards better policies and decisions in the future.
Unlike young people nowadays who would rather travel for leisure, Oscar, a new graduate who just joined the workforce, willingly volunteered to take time off from work to serve as a volunteer in the delegation. Although there are many things to execute before and throughout the journey, he found it immensely rewarding because it added depth and excitement to the trip. Today, at the Pisa City Hall, he expressed his heartfelt wishes for love and peace through songs, sensing the genuine emotional resonance from everyone present, he further encouraged them to join efforts for global peace.
To truly achieve the goal of sustainable development, it is essential to translate the aspirations for love and peace into tangible actions. To this end, Dr. Hong leads the delegation to different parts of the world, holding World Love Peace Bell Ringing Ceremonies. They invite world leaders, influential and peace-loving individuals from every corner of the world to endorse and champion the cause of peace. As of now, 549 dignitaries from 147 countries have rang the Peace Bell, including 71 heads of state and government, 9 Nobel Peace Prize laureates, ambassadors to the United Nations, and leaders from all walks of life around the world. It is hoped that such efforts to promote world peace will draw increased attention to people's desire for peace.