On October 3, 2026, UPF and WFWP brought together local residents, faith leaders, and community members in Manassas, Virginia, to celebrate the United Nations International Day of Peace. Guided by the theme “Invest in Peace — For Everyone, Everywhere, Every Day,” the gathering emphasized the role each person can play in creating a more peaceful world.
Barbara Moseley-Marks, founder and president of Pure Style, Inc. and executive director of UPF-Virginia, welcomed participants by reminding them that building peace is not solely the responsibility of governments and world leaders. Pastor Gerald MuBaira offered the opening prayer, followed by an introduction to WFWP’s Bridge of Peace initiative by Pastor Natascha Phillips. The program featured Korean and Bengali devotional songs, small-group discussions on the meaning of peace, and an international meal with dishes representing several countries. Participants shared their perspectives on peace, including the importance of extending compassion beyond national and cultural boundaries.
The highlight of the afternoon was the Bridge of Peace ceremony, in which participants approached from opposite sides, met in the center, and embraced as a symbol of reconciliation. Three pairings represented reconciliation between men and women, friendship across cultures and nationalities, and interracial harmony. Through this simple yet meaningful gesture, participants demonstrated that healing divisions begins with a willingness to meet others with forgiveness, understanding, and an open heart.
The gathering reflected UPF and WFWP’s commitment to strengthening families and fostering international, interfaith, and cross-cultural cooperation. It also brought to life the vision of One Family Under God, reminding participants that peace begins in our homes and communities and grows through the everyday choices we make to respect, understand, and care for one another. As the program emphasized, peace does not simply happen; it is something we intentionally build together.