Peace Week 20th-28th September 2008
In 2008 we established Peace Week in Gloucestershire. Our theme was Trust Through Frienship,Peace Through Trust.We worked together with a small group of organisations to organise activities throughout the week.
We opened the week with an event held at Taurus Crafts in Lydney. John and Camilla James who were held hostage in Chechnya came to speak about their experience. it was followed by a
discussion on the issues of conflict and peace. It was a very emotive but inspirational afternoon.
In Wotton-Under-Edge the richness and vibrancy of this community was experienced in an evening of musical entertainment. Local school children worked with the theme of peace to produce poems and art work which were exhibited on the night.
On the United Nations day of Peace 21st September the Peace Prayer Society organised a flag Ceremony outside the Subscription Rooms in Stroud. The national flags of each country were presented by members of the audience and our thoughts and sincere wishes for peace in each country were sent.It was a colourful and moving ceremony. The children present really enjoyed it.
Films of Prem Rawat on the potential for peace that originates from the human heart were shown in Stroud and in Cheltenham." Very simple and beautiful" said a member of the audience.
Mid Week a wokshop on Non- Violent Communication was held at the "Come to Life" Barn at Hawkesbury Upton. This was based on the work of Dr Marshall B Rosenberg.
The week concluded with a Michaelmus celebration at The Asha Center in the Forest of Dean.Iron instruments were forged and played together in a symphony of peace. We spoke in chorus and sang together. The garden was harvested and a meal prepared and enjoyed by all. The garden was also prepared for the autumn and winter months. It was a day of unity and harmony spent in beautiful surroundings. Very nurturing to the soul and the land.
Photos: Top - Children's Art, John & Camilla James
Bottom- Flag Ceremony
