Fostering Unity and Faith: HWPL Hosts World Christian Peace Academy (ICPA) in Lusaka, Zambia

In an effort to strengthen social harmony and explore the role of faith in sustainable peacebuilding, the international peace NGO HWPL (Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light) recently hosted the 'World Christian Peace Academy (ICPA) & Fellowship' in Lusaka, Zambia.

Held on March 14, the event served as a high-level platform for dialogue, organized in close cooperation with the Department of National Guidance and Religious Affairs (NGRA) under the Office of the Vice President of Zambia, and the Zambian Interfaith Networking Group (ZINGO).

The gathering brought together approximately 90 participants, including prominent Christian leaders, pastors, media representatives, and volunteers. Notable organizations in attendance included the Independent Churches of Zambia (ICOZ), the Mission Ambassadors for Global Evangelism (MAGE), and the Apostolic Churches Council of Zambia (ACOC), marking a significant convergence of diverse denominational voices.

Dialogue as a Foundation for Humility and Mutual Respect

The core objective of the ICPA program is to provide Christian leaders with a space to reflect on scripture and examine how faith can effectively contribute to peace within society.

During his opening remarks, Sibusiso Hamukoma, General Secretary of ZINGO, emphasized the necessity of a humble approach to interfaith engagement:

“True unity is achieved when churches of different traditions and denominations dialogue with humility and mutual respect. I hope this ICPA program serves as a meaningful platform for Christian leaders to meditate on the scriptures together and deeply contemplate how our faith can contribute to social peace.”

Participants engaged in active discourse following the ICPA lecture, exploring fundamental questions through a scriptural lens and sharing diverse perspectives on how religious leaders can act as catalysts for reconciliation and cohesion within their local communities.

A Decade of the DPCW: Commemorating a Legacy of Peace

The event held particular significance as it took place during the 10th-anniversary year of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW), which was proclaimed by HWPL on March 14, 2016.

The DPCW, drafted by international law experts, serves as a comprehensive framework emphasizing international cooperation for sustainable peace, religious freedom, and the expansion of a culture of peace. By operating the ICPA based on the principles of the DPCW, HWPL continues to bridge the gap between diverse religious denominations, fostering a global environment where interfaith understanding and cooperation are the norms rather than the exceptions.

Toward a Future of Sustainable Cooperation

The participants praised the event as a vital venue for bridging differences and building a foundation for collaborative efforts. As religious leaders expressed their commitment to expanding their partnership with HWPL, the event solidified its role as a sustainable model for community-driven peacebuilding.

By aligning institutional guidance with grassroots faith-based action, the 'ICPA & Fellowship' in Lusaka demonstrates that peace is not merely a political aspiration, but a responsibility shared by leaders of faith committed to the well-being and unity of their nation.

Source: https://vo.la/TVntBTz