Lighting Candles, Building Bridges: An Interfaith Call to Unity
On Saturday, January 10, 2026, the Indianapolis Chapter of the Universal Peace Federation–USA co-hosted the Light of Hope Religious Freedom Forum in partnership with the Hindu Temple of Central Indiana, the Islamic Center of Muncie (IN), the Nur-Allah Mosque, and the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification (FFWPU). The forum brought together five faith leaders from diverse religious traditions for a thoughtful panel discussion focused on resolving differences among faiths and strengthening mutual support to foster unity.
The program was skillfully moderated by Dr. Madelene Alexander, a member of the Indianapolis Family Church and the Women’s Federation for World Peace. Panelists included Dr. Vidya Kathik, representing the Hindu Temple of Central Indiana; Mrs. Bibi Bahrami, President of the Islamic Center of Muncie and founder of Afghan Women’s and Kids’ Educational Necessities (AWAKEN), offering a Middle Eastern Islamic perspective; and Imam Mikal Saahir, spiritual leader of the Nur-Allah Mosque, who shared insights from the African American Muslim experience.
Christopher Olson, a former missionary to Indonesia and South America for more than thirty years, represented FFWPU and spoke about sharing the love of True Parents through authentic relationships rather than doctrinal instruction alone. Pastor Robert Abendroth, co-pastor of the Indianapolis Family Church, provided an in-depth explanation of the situation facing Dr. Hak Ja Han, co-founder and spiritual leader of FFWPU, who is currently being held in South Korea without having been convicted of any crime.
The theme “Light of Hope” was chosen to reflect the universal symbolism of light as an expression of God’s truth and love overcoming darkness—an image found across religious traditions such as Hanukkah in Judaism, Christmas in Christianity, and Diwali in Hinduism. This symbolism was brought to life through a candle-lighting ceremony. A central tall candle representing Holy Mother Han was placed at the center of the display, while each panelist entered carrying a candle symbolizing their faith. Following the discussion, audience members were invited to add their own candles, visually expressing unity among all faith communities.
The event also held special significance for the Peace Starts With Me Alliance, as Imam Mikal Saahir was formally installed as a new Ambassador for Peace. He joined fellow Ambassador Mrs. Bibi Bahrami, who received her AFP certificate more than two years ago. Although Imam Saahir is a student of Imam W. Deen Mohammed and could focus primarily on racial divisions in America, he instead embraces people of all races, religions, and ethnicities, working consistently throughout the community to promote unity and mutual respect.
Imam Saahir’s response following the program offered a moving testament to the growing impact of the Peace Starts With Me Alliance. After learning about Holy Mother Han’s situation, he asked his wife to take a photograph of him standing beside an image of True Parents—a quiet but deeply meaningful gesture. This experience echoed a separate occasion at another prayer meeting, where a Christian minister from Chicago independently expressed sorrow upon hearing of Holy Mother Han’s imprisonment and offered a public prayer for her safety and protection.
These moments reflect a broader and deeply encouraging trend: faith leaders across America are opening their hearts, responding with compassion, and standing in solidarity for peace and religious freedom. The Peace Starts With Me Alliance is clearly touching lives and inspiring unity at a profound level.