‘Peace is Every Step’ – Silent Walking Meditation for Peace
On Sunday, 21st January, together with other faith groups we will take to the streets of London in a silent walk for peace. Facilitated together with the Quakers in Britain, the event, which is open to all, calls for peace amidst the rising challenges of hatred, anger, destruction, displacement, and suffering.
With more than 30 ongoing conflicts around the world, particularly in Palestine and Israel, the silent vigil aims to transcend religious and cultural boundaries.
During the walk, from 12-3pm, faith communities will share their dedication to non-violence, reconciliation and peace, united in the common pursuit of harmonious co-existence. Muslims, Jews, Christians, Hindus, Buddhists and many others are expected to join the walk from Trafalgar Square to Parliament Square and back, weaving a narrative of peace between the city’s key political landmarks. Without flags, placards, slogans or chants, participants will carry hand-made white flowers as a reminder that everyone has a role to play in cultivating a more peaceful world.
For us as Plum Village practitioners it is also a day of the two-year Memorial Ceremony for our beloved teacher Thich Nhat Hanh. Walking for non-violence, reconciliation and peace, we will also have the opportunity to silently recognise the continuation of our spiritual teacher, honouring the many peaceful walks he led in London and the collective sitting meditation he offered in March 2012, at Trafalgar Square.
Opening prayers from faith representatives will reinforce the diverse yet unified call for peace. Rabbi Charley Baginsky (CEO Liberal Judaism), Georgina Long (Brahma Kumaris), Rabbi Jonathan Wittenberg (New North London Synagogue), Imam Asim Hafiz ( Islamic Advisor & Imam, Ministry of Defence), Mandip Singh(Sikh) Ven Canda ((only Buddhist female monastic in the Theravada Tradition ), Padideh Sabeti (Ba’Hai) Shahin Bekhradnia (Zorastarian), are amongst the long list of faith leaders who will be in attendance including Pagans, druid and more.
“The quiet nature of the walk reflects our common universal language of peace, going beyond words to embody our interconnectedness,” said Rehena Harilall, our Sangha Sister . “The walk is not just a walk for peace; it’s a commitment that our every step makes towards cultivating peace within ourselves and in the world around us“.
“Peace is not weak, nor passive – it is built on foundations of our love, compassion and respect for all life”
This walk aligns with the Together for Humanity campaign, transcending religious boundaries and inviting the public to join in advocating for peace and harmony. It is open to everyone, of all faiths and none.
Please join us and share – click here for more information about the event.
