HWPL’s Interfaith Dialogue and Peace Education Initiatives: A Global Commitment to Harmony

In a world plagued by religious conflicts, the pursuit of interfaith peace is more crucial than ever. HWPL (Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light), led by Chairman Man Hee Lee, is spearheading efforts to promote religious understanding and harmony. Through its interfaith dialogue programs and peace education initiatives, HWPL is working tirelessly to foster a world where peace and mutual respect transcend religious boundaries.

Building Bridges Through the World Religious Peace Academy

One of HWPL’s most impactful initiatives is the World Religious Peace Academy (IRPA), which brings religious leaders together from various faiths to deepen their understanding of each other’s beliefs and practices. In 2023, HWPL hosted its first-ever IRPA, inviting leaders from Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, and Sikhism to engage in a series of online lectures. Over 1,388 religious leaders from 108 countries participated in the four-week program.

Participants, including Nanabamsa Gautam, a student from Buddha University, shared how the program helped dispel doubts and fostered a sense of responsibility for peace. "I too am a peace mediator now," Gautam said, echoing the sentiments of many who left the program with a renewed commitment to interfaith harmony.

Mongolian Buddhist monk Enghberyan Zargalsaihan also expressed the positive impact of IRPA, noting that it reduced religious conflicts by encouraging religious leaders to listen to one another and approach differences with an open heart. HWPL’s IRPA continues to pave the way for greater religious understanding, contributing to a more peaceful world.

Empowering Educators to Prevent School Violence

HWPL’s efforts are not limited to religious dialogue; they extend to building a culture of peace in schools. In 2023, HWPL hosted a School Violence Prevention Workshop, bringing together over 100 educators from around the globe to share strategies for combating bullying and fostering peaceful school environments. With rising rates of school violence worldwide, this initiative is a critical step toward ensuring students can learn and grow in safe spaces.

Lynn Beyah Muhammad, principal of New Medina Islamic School in the U.S., emphasized the importance of peace curricula, stating that teaching students the value of order and respect for one another can prevent violence. Teachers at the workshop committed to using HWPL’s peace education framework to create more inclusive, respectful environments for their students.

Promoting Cross-Cultural Peace through Korean Language Classes in Thailand

In addition to its peace education and interfaith dialogue efforts, HWPL is also promoting peace through cultural exchange. In 2023, HWPL volunteers worked with Thai community organizations to offer free Korean language classes, providing a unique opportunity for Thai citizens to engage with Korean culture. These classes, which were held in multiple locations, attracted over 100 participants who were eager to learn the language and culture behind the global K-pop phenomenon.

Chulada Suawang, a teacher at the Thai Islamic School in Bangkok, praised the initiative, noting that understanding different languages and cultures is a powerful way to promote peace. Students who participated in the classes expressed their gratitude and hope for more opportunities to engage with HWPL in the future.

A Global Movement for Peace

Through its interfaith dialogue, peace education, and cultural exchange programs, HWPL is uniting individuals across the world in a common goal: building a peaceful future for all. Chairman Man Hee Lee’s vision that "All Religions Are One" is resonating with religious leaders, educators, and youth who are committed to breaking down barriers and fostering a culture of peace.

As HWPL continues to expand its global outreach, the dream of a world without conflict is becoming more achievable. Will you join HWPL in building a bridge to peace?