Theme “Build a Culture of Peace”
Message from John Choa, International President:
Never in the history of man has there been peace on earth! Still, the urge for peace is always present. Not in everybody at the same time. Not everywhere at any given moment. Still we keep repeating: Peace be with you! Practice that in your community – this is Community Service!
Thoughts by Elvira Martinez, Past President, YMC Omaguás Pinheiros, Brazil:
Peace? Peace should be inside each and every one of us in our hearts, in our eyes, in our gestures. Even against all odds, we shall always be able to find and offer Peace once we tune to ourselves to the Creator ...!
- respect for each other - the practice of non-violence - sharing time and resources - defending freedom of expression and cultural diversity - community development with the full participation of women and respect for democratic principles
Action ideas by ISD Community Service:
We all want peace. As Y’s Men we are bound to not only wanting peace but also to actively work for it! Here are some ideas from Marilyn Hamilton, who is chairing the Y’s Men International “Say No to Violence” – programme:
- What does your club do that insures a better life for everyone in your community? Can you do it better? Can you use the gifts of your members more effectively? Could young people be recruited to help with your project? Is your club is a place where everyone knows their opinion matters and they are appreciated?
- Co-operation in planning activities for the YMCA-YWCA Week of Prayer and World Fellowship, or a similar peace-promoting event in your community, can help your Y, and encourage your community to build peace from within.
- Plan an event that calls community attention to peace issues.
- Start a new project responding to such needs as: health care, clean water, safe, adequate, affordable housing, food security, youth employment, child care, access to recreation, access to education, and needs of immigrants and refugees, especially war-affected children.
- Plan a club or community event at which a non-violence pledge is discussed. Perhaps those present can sign a pledge and celebrate together.
- Plan a club or community event that encourages cross-cultural or inter-faith communication.
- Plan a poster contest, essay contest, photo or video contest, or exhibition presenting children’s thoughts on what peace means.
See also http://www.ysmen.org. - Programmes/Say NO to Violence and Programmes/Community Service
Y’sly - Otto H. Larsen, ISD Community Service