A call for unity through spirituality resounded with music, performances, and speeches
-- The United Nations General Assembly recently proclaimed December 21 as World Meditation Day. This historic resolution highlights spirituality as a powerful tool to promote mental health globally, reaffirming its alignment with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its focus on mental health and well-being. The adoption of Resolution A/79/L.27 on December 6th, declaring December 21st as World Meditation Day, was guided by Andorra, India, Liechtenstein, Mexico, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and other members of the core group.
The "Civil Society's World Meditation Day Opening Celebration," organized by the World Yoga Community, was hosted at the Church of Scientology in the chapel of their Times Square church and drew numerous NGO representatives, religious leaders, and UN diplomats. The Church of Scientology hosted the event to promote spirituality as a universal value and encourage interfaith dialogue, believing that problems arise when communication breaks down. This event unified diverse traditions, highlighting the shared spiritual goals that connect humanity.
The key speaker was Ambassador Hon. Anwarul K. Chowdhury, Former Under-Secretary-General and High Representative of the United Nations and Founder of the Global Movement for the Culture of Peace. He highlighted the pressing need for spirituality in global peacebuilding efforts. "The element of spirituality needs to come not only in the actions of civil society but also in those of member states," he remarked, underlining the interconnectedness of spiritual values and sustainable peace.
The organizer of this celebration, Guruji H.H. Dileepkumar Thankappan, Founder and CEO of the World Yoga Community—an NGO associated with the United Nations Department of Global Communications and accredited with Special Consultative Status to the United Nations Economic and Social Council—echoed this sentiment, sharing his vision of universal spirituality: "We are all spiritual beings created to love and care for one another. Like the sun, which shines on everyone without discrimination, we too must nurture unity and compassion."
Rev. Massimo Parrino, President of the L. Ron Hubbard Foundation, welcomed the prestigious guests to the Church of Scientology New York and emphasized the importance of spiritual growth in society. Quoting Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard, he said, "Tolerance is a good cornerstone on which to build human relationships." This principle underscores the Church's commitment to fostering peace and spiritual harmony by encouraging open communication and respect among faiths.
The event featured inspiring performances and speeches from a tapestry of spiritual traditions. Mr. Sarvalakshan Das from ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness) captivated attendees with a musical performance rooted in the spiritual traditions of North India.
Ambassador Hon. Isaiah Chabala, former Permanent Representative of Zambia to the United Nations, also delivered remarks on the transformative power of spirituality in diplomacy and global development.
Recent studies reveal an intriguing cultural shift we must address: the proportion of Americans identifying as neither religious nor spiritual rose from 16% in 2012 to 21% in 2023 (Religion News Service). This increasing secularization coincides with findings suggesting that materialistic values can negatively impact well-being, while spirituality can offer a mitigating effect (Social Science Research Network, 2020).
"These trends highlight the essential role interfaith gatherings like this play in fostering spirituality and unity in the face of a societal decline in these critical values," explained Rev. Parrino. "This event was not merely a celebration of individual faiths but a unified stand to promote spirituality, fostering collaboration among religious and secular leaders. By emphasizing open communication and shared values, this celebration beautifully demonstrated that spirituality is the universal thread connecting humanity, effortlessly transcending all perceived barriers."
The Church regularly sponsors interfaith events and uses The Way to Happiness, written by Mr. Hubbard, to encourage everyone to respect the religious beliefs of others.
Guruji His Holiness Dileepkumar Thankappan (front left), Mr. Sarvalakshan Das (center right), Rev. Massimo Parrino (center), and others marked this special occasion with a heartfelt celebration in song.
About the company: The L. Ron Hubbard Foundation manages and promotes the work of humanitarian and artist L. Ron Hubbard. The Foundation oversees his residence in Bay Head, NJ, which has been designated as a historical landmark. Visitors interested in learning more about Mr. Hubbard's life and contributions can schedule guided tours by appointment.
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