Peace Mala International Inter-Faith Liturgy for World Peace

Just under three months ago I went to Terrace Road School for a Peace Mala event, and concept is designed to encourage the celebration of cultural, racial and religious diversity through art, music, drama and dance. It promotes environmental sustainability, healthy eating and respect for all animals and wildlife. It also encourages peace education by forming a school peace council and engaging in peace activities.

Today I was in Brecon Cathedral with the Lord Lieutenant of Powys, the High Sheriffs of Powys and West Glamorgan, the Mayor of Brecon, Deputy Mayor of Neath Port Talbot, the Archbishop of Wales, Bishop Emeritus Tom Burns of Menevia, the Shadow Secretary for Wales and representatives of other faiths for a multi-faith service.

The service involved schools from Swansea, Powys and Manchester, with over a hundred school children present in the Cathedral. It was led by Pam Evans, who founded Peace Mala and included a contribution from Steve Balsamo singing the Peace Mala song alongside Penllergaer Primary, St. Joseph's RC Primary and Catwg Primary.

The highlight of the event was Malcolm 'Rising Eagle' performing the Native hoop dance uniting all nations. Tribal and native people believe that all creation is sacred and that all people share one heart though they are many. The hoop dance involves manipulating the hoops so as form the shape of various animals and birds.

The final blessing was given by the Archbishop of Wales, before we departed for tea and cake.