The Interfaith Gathering for World Peace, held on May 17 at the Memorial da América Latina in São Paulo, brought together spiritual leaders, public authorities, cultural figures, scholars, and representatives of civil society in a collective demonstration of dialogue, coexistence, and commitment to peace among different religious traditions.
Hosted with the participation of the Zenti Temple of Royal Buddhism in partnership with the São Paulo State Secretariat of Justice and Citizenship, the event created a shared space where people from different faiths and philosophical backgrounds could stand together under a common message: that religious diversity can become a force for unity rather than division.
The meeting was organized around the theme of promoting peace, freedom of belief, and mutual respect. Throughout the program, participants emphasized that despite differences in theology, rituals, and spiritual practices, many traditions share common values such as compassion, human dignity, solidarity, justice, and peaceful coexistence. Discussions also explored the role of culture, heritage, and community leadership in strengthening understanding across religious and social boundaries.
Among the notable participants was Sheikh Ali Al Khatib, who represented the Islamic community and delivered remarks encouraging understanding among peoples, interfaith respect, and the importance of spiritual values in overcoming social divisions. His participation highlighted the growing role of interreligious engagement within Brazilian society.
Also present was B’nai B’rith Brasil, one of the oldest Jewish organizations with international presence and a long-standing commitment to human rights, civic responsibility, and interfaith cooperation. Through its participation, the organization reaffirmed the importance of creating spaces where different religious communities can engage in constructive dialogue and promote social harmony.
Representatives connected to Buddhist traditions, alongside participants from other religious and cultural backgrounds, contributed to the event through speeches, symbolic moments of reflection, and messages centered on reconciliation and fraternity.
The gathering also welcomed several respected voices from cultural and Afro-diasporic religious communities, reflecting the broad and inclusive character of the event. Among several other important names present were Cultural Ambassador Adegboyega Najeem, Iyalorisa Chief Mrs Leila, Bàbálòrìsà Rafael, Cultural Theorist and Writer Adeyinka Olaiya, and Mãe Carmen de Osun, whose presence reinforced the importance of preserving spiritual traditions while encouraging intercultural and interreligious dialogue. Their participation highlighted the connection between cultural identity, ancestral knowledge, and contemporary efforts toward peaceful coexistence.
Rather than focusing on doctrinal differences, the gathering emphasized listening, coexistence, and the recognition of each person’s right to practice their faith freely and with dignity. The atmosphere reflected this purpose: leaders and participants from different spiritual paths sharing one stage and one message — peace.
Throughout the event, moments of exchange encouraged participants to reflect on how communities can work together beyond ceremonial encounters. Speakers emphasized education, cultural understanding, and sustained engagement as essential tools for reducing prejudice and strengthening social cohesion. The gathering demonstrated that interfaith initiatives can serve not only as symbolic acts but also as practical platforms for cooperation and mutual support.
The event also reinforced broader efforts across the State of São Paulo to strengthen interfaith forums, encourage citizenship, and confront religious intolerance. Organizers and participants highlighted that building a culture of peace requires continuous dialogue beyond ceremonial occasions and depends on the active involvement of religious institutions, cultural leaders, and civil society.
The Interfaith Gathering for World Peace ultimately delivered a clear message: diversity of belief does not have to divide societies. When guided by respect, openness, and a shared commitment to human dignity, spiritual and cultural traditions can contribute together toward a more peaceful, just, and united world.
