HWPL 2nd annual commemoration of the declaration of world peace

Africa: We are One 2nd annual commemoration of the declaration of world peace taking place at Freedom Park on Sunday 24 May 2015 

Pretoria, South Africa – Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (“HWPL”), together with Freedom Park and the National Interfaith Council of South Africa (NICSA) will host the second Annual Commemoration of the Declaration of World peace at Freedom Park, Pretoria. The purpose of the event is to bring all Africans together under one banner of peace and promote the message: AFRICA – we are one!

This event is a commemoration of the day when the Declaration of World Peace was proclaimed by the Chairman of HWPL Mr. Lee in South Korea on the 25th of May 2013 in front of 30 000 youths from all around the world. Since this day, the declaration has become the standard and goal of HWPL around the globe and its members and affiliated organizations are making united efforts to achieve them. The efforts of the South Africa branch of HWPL are being felt as this culture of peace is spreading around all the provinces of the country.

The first part of this event will host the “Peace This Together” Interfaith Dialogue where youth, women, political, and religious leaders will gather to discuss their religious texts regarding the topic of creation. Speakers will include Dr Mathole Motshekga from NICSA representing Karaism, Guru Nadarajah Sarma from the Hindu faith, Mr Xolile Dawids from Rastafarian United, Venerable Kitsakol Phaenoi, the Director of the Johannesburg Meditation Centre, Commissioner Sheila Mbele Khama representing African Religion and Ms Aadila Amod the CEO of Muslim Youth in Dialogue.

The dialogue will be followed by a peace walk through grounds of Freedom Park, a symbol of South Africa’s heritage and leading icon of humanity and freedom in South Africa and internationally. As the commemoration of the Declaration of World Peace is celebrated, the young people, religious and political leaders of South Africa will walk to demonstrate that they too undertake to implement the vision of this peace declaration by picking up the mantle of peace and promoting a culture of peace in their direct environments.

The peace walk will lead into part three of the program where the World Peace Monument with the words of the World Peace Declaration engraved eternally on the stone will be unveiled. The Secretary General of NICSA and the Acting CEO of Freedom Park together with the Regional Director of HWPL South Africa will unveil the monument with one heart. This will be the second World Peace Monument on African soil which will be unveiled after the first when Chairman Lee, on his 17th trip around the world, unveiled a monument during the Royal Bafokeng Peace Festival which took place on the 28 March 2015 where over 1000 people participated.

On May 25th 2015, 200,000 youth and women from all around the world are expected to participate in the 2nd Annual Commemoration of the Declaration of World Peace and Peace Walk Festival led by International Peace Youth Group (IPYG) and the International Women’s Peace Group (IWPG), both HWPL’s affiliated organizations.

Man Hee Lee, Chairman of HWPL

Greetings

Greetings to you from all of us here at the Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light ("HWPL") headquarters in Seoul. We sincerely hope that you, your loved ones, and the people you share your world with are enjoying peace and good health.

HWPL is an international organization whose mandate it is to see the cessation of wars. It pursues this goal through a number of avenues, namely the International Peace Youth Group ("IPYG"), and the International Women’s Peace Group ("IWPG"). Our work is motivated by a unique vision for peace centering on the establishment of a new and universally applicable set of values. This is the heavenly culture - something which has been promised to man through every religious and ideological ideal.

Our World Peace Delegation, made up of myself as chairman of HWPL, and the directors of IPYG and IWPG, have been traveling around the world meeting with various national and community leaders in both secular and religious fields. During these meetings we have had the pleasure of being able to introduce the philosophy of HWPL to them. Without fail, every leader we have spoken with has pledged themselves in support of our cause, demonstrating their desire to be a part of HWPL’s work through a signed agreement of solidarity.

Most notably, HWPL was proud to play its part in the signing of an interfaith peace agreement between two religious communities on the Philippine island of Mindanao. As a result, a 40 year conflict is now finally coming to an end. This, along with all our other volunteer activities and events are widely broadcast by media all over the world. And these things are just the beginning. With a peace agreement being reached such as the one between the two religious communities in Mindanao, we believe that the world is seeing the dawning of a new era of peace, one which sees a World Alliance of Religions.

Such an alliance of ideologies which until now have been central to an untold number of conflicts would enable us to leave a legacy of peace and life to future generations instead of the death and war which now besets our world. Is this not the most important task any of us can accomplish in our lives?

To this end, HWPL is hosting the Summit for the World Alliance of Religions in Seoul, South Korea this year, and it is my great honor to invite you to come and join us for this historic event.

This is the time for us to come together and unite as one family of humanity; to lay aside our differences, and find ways to bridge the rifts between our ideologies. Regardless of our personal views on the matter, religion is a powerful motivating force in our world. Its power to be used for either peace or hate-mongering is undeniable. I humbly ask you, therefore, to consider this invitation favorably, and to join us for the Summit. Your input would be most valuable to all who attend.

May we all stand together as messengers of peace, and see the dawning of a day in which there is no more war.

Thank you.

Man Hee Lee, Chairman
Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light

Man Hee Lee announced as Honorary at Carson City Peace Conference

Over the weekend, Chairman of Heavenly Culture World Peace and Restoration of Light (HWPL) and peace advocate Man Hee Lee returned to the the City of Carson to host a the city’s second peace conference.

With the success of the World Alliance of Religions for Peace (WARP) Summit that took place in Seoul, South Korea back in September, Lee returned to the United States to continue his efforts for world peace.

According to HWPL, “The focus this time around will be to make a joint effort in drafting an international law for world peace and cessation of war through an alliance of religions, setting aside differences and finding peace as a common ground in the various sacred religious texts.”

Lee was joined by heads of state of different countries, religious leaders, youth groups, non-profit organizations and locals at the Carson Community Center to speak about international peace and the many achievements that occurred at the three-day WARP Summit.

Man Hee Lee and chairwoman Nam Hee Kim were recognized for their work and dedication for world peace AND were announced as Honorary Citizens of Carson, California by Mayor Jim Dear as well as Mayor Pro Tempore Elito M. Santarina.

At the end of the conference everyone got together and signed the HWPL Peace Agreement to strive for world peace and the cessation of war. It was a great moment to be apart of.

HWPL Peace Walk in Union City

The 2nd Annual Commemoration of the Declaration of the World Peace

HWPL in Union City

HWPL  SF branch took extra measures to be professional and organized with banners, donation boxes, signs, and etc. They reached to the event's youth organization and their volunteers and had them participate in the peace march. Overall the Burmese community was open hearted and welcomed HWPL and sharing our Korean and heavenly culture.

Peace Advocate Man Hee Lee

PeaceAdvocate Man Hee Lee

On October 5, 2013, he was invited in the International Peace Symposium as a V. I. P. and his speech was great and sensational.  Moreover he has been doing all his peace work based on " The Declaration of World Peace".  He did many speech and International Conference on the Unity of the Religion.  He travel  around world many times and he met many of world leaders and religious leaders.  HWPL's goal is that all of world leaders write their signature on Peace Agreement and that they keep it for world peace

Man Hee Lee

Recently he has achieved remarkable Peace Work in Mindanao in Philippines.

Man Hee Lee in Philippine

Peace advocate Man Hee Lee

Mr. Man Hee Lee

On 5. Oct.2013 he was invited in this International Peace Symposium as a V.I.P and his speech was great and sensational. Moreover he has been doing all his peace work based on “The Declaration of World Peace”. He did many speech and International Conference on the Unity of the Religion.

He traveled around world more than 7 Times and he met many of world leaders and religions leader. HWPL’s goal is that all of world leaders write their signature on Peace agreement and that they keep it for world peace.

Recently he has achieved remarkable Peace Word in Mindanao, which is “Peace agreement in Mindanao initiated by HWPL in Philippines”  The new era of peace has begun in Mindanao Island. This region has suffered disputes between Catholic and Islam for about forty years and it has caused over 100,000 casualties. Man hee Lee, the representative of Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL) has paid his third visit to Philippine and during his stay he has advised the Archbishop and three Bishops to sign a Peace Agreement at a Nunnery. The purpose of Chairman Lee’s visit was to conclude the Peace Agreement which can lead to settle the conflict in the Mindanao region. Archbishop Antonio J. Ledesma (the diocese of Cagaya de Oro) has met Mr. Lee for the first time on September 2013 and ever since their meeting, he has continually invited the Chairman many times to pay a visit in Philippine and to respond, the Peace advocate has decided to travel despite the region’s tight vigilance.

Man Hee Lee

Advocating new era of world peace; HWP

 

 


 The World Alliance of Religions’ Peace (WARP) Summit, which held from September 17 -19, 2014 in Seoul, was an event that opened a new chapter in the peace movement worldwide.

Theme of the event was “The Enactment of an International Law for the Cessation of Wars and Legacy of Peace and the World Alliance of Religions.”

This summit was groundbreaking in the sense that it presented; “the World Alliance of Religions” as a concrete proposition for realizing the cessation of wars and world peace.

The event presented a platform for realising peace worldwide – first is to sign the Unity of Religions Agreement, and the second is to present the Agreement to Propose the Enactment of an International Law for the Cessation of Wars and encourage political and religious leaders around the world to participate.

The WARP Summit was hosted by Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL, Chairman Man Hee Lee), which is a purely non-governmental organization, and it was attended by more than 50 former and current heads of state including presidents, vice presidents, and prime ministers from all around the world.

Stjepan Mesic (former President of Croatia and former President of the Presidency of Yugoslavia), who was among the attendees, said, “This occasion where the heads of state and religious leaders came together for peace is unprecedented. Mr. Man Hee Lee’s idea is really amazing and excellent. This wonderful event will definitely play a positive role in bringing wars to an end and achieving world peace.”

The fact that over 680 religious leaders from 120 countries agreed on the idea of “the World Alliance of Religions” and that they came to the Republic of Korea all the way from foreign countries has a significant meaning in the history of religions. Giani Gurbachan Singh, Jathedar of the Akal Takht, emphasized in his speech at the opening ceremony that; “All scriptures are telling us that religions must unite. A religious leader who speaks of division and conflict is not a religious leader.”

The WARP Summit was actively supported by people from all walks of life. Since young people are the biggest victims of war, it is natural that over 600 representatives and members of youth organizations in 139 countries attended the event.

Also, women—whose sons and husbands participate in war—actively participated in the WARP Summit. The fact that women organizations, including the International Women’s Peace Group (IWPG, Chairwoman Nam Hee Kim), played a key role in the event was enthusiastically received by the foreign press.

An anchorman of a famous broadcasting station, said, “I have often heard of the peace movement of Mr. Man Hee Lee, so I came to this event. The message that he delivered to the heads of state and religious leaders around the world for the cessation of wars and the achievement of world peace was impressive. The message of Ms. Nam Hee Kim saying that women are working together for world peace in the spirit of motherly love in order to protect children really touched my heart.”

On the first day of the WARP Summit, the opening ceremony was held at Seoul Olympic Stadium. The event was attended by approximately 200,000 people both inside and outside of the stadium, establishing itself as the biggest event ever for peace. The Card Section performance by 12,000 members of the youth organizations presented a spectacular view and delivered the message of peace to the whole world.

On-ground performances expressing the wish for peace also left an unforgettable impression on the attendees.

At the opening ceremony, a congratulatory video message from Archbishop Desmond Tutu, the spiritual leader of South Africa and recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize in 1984, attracted much attention.

In his message, he said, “I would like to congratulated both Chairman Man Hee Lee and the members of HWPL for hosting the World Alliance of Religions’ Peace Summit. Thank you for delivering the message of peace and the cessation of wars to the whole world.”

The second day of the WARP Summit, religious leaders proclaimed they will transcend religion and denomination and embark upon the establishment of the unity of religions in order to bring about world peace. Twelve religious leaders, including Antonio Ledesma (Archbishop of Cagayan de Oro, Philippines), Swami Chidanand Saraswati (the president of Parmarth Niketan Ashram), Martin De Jesus Barahona (Bishop of the Anglican Episcopal Church of El Salvador), and Giani Gurbachan Singh (Jathedar of the Akal Takht), participated in the signing ceremony of the Unity of Religions Agreement.

Through this agreement, they declared to work with people all around the world to realize world peace through the unity of religions, saying, “All religions must unite as one under the name of God.”

Representatives from different nations gave speeches under the theme of “Religious Conflicts and World Peace” on that day. The event was attended by heads of state, ambassadors, and other dignitaries. Five group sessions also took place that afternoon to encourage participants to share methods of cooperation to achieve the cessation of wars and world peace. Representatives from each nation including political and religious leaders, prime ministers, and chief justices attended the various sessions.

The Agreement to propose the Enactment of an International Law was declared along with Unity of Religions Agreement, and political leaders and government officials of the world pledged to be on the frontlines of spreading the necessity of enacting an international law to bring cessation of wars.

On the last day of the event, a total of 200,000 people, including the participants of the Summit, the members of youth and women’s groups, and local citizens, participated in the Walk for World Peace near Seoul Olympic Park.

This event, hosted by the International Peace Youth Group (IPYG), commemorated the huge success of the World Alliance of Religions’ Peace Summit, attended by about 600 members from youth and women groups representing organizations in 139 countries.

Mr. Man Hee Lee, the chairman of HWPL, emphasized the realization of the cessation of wars and world peace through the unity of religions in numerous meetings with the media. This was stressed in a press conference with foreign media that took place on the day before the opening ceremony.

Another press conference with national and international reporters was held at the conclusion of the Summit on the 19th. Mr. Lee said that through the World Alliance of Religions’ Peace Summit, “The wars within humanity can be avoided by the determination in our hearts, and we can accomplish a world of peace to leave as a legacy for our future generations.”

He also brought attention to the role of those of faith, the religious people, for this purpose. Mr. Lee also encouraged the media from different countries of the world to frequently report on the peace agreement signed at the Peace Summit.

World Alliance of Religions’ Peace Summit Marks the Beginning of a New Era of Peace

HWPL AND WARP

 

SEOUL | September 23, 2014

International political and religious leaders commit to a new systematic approach to peace

The World Alliance of Religions’ Peace (WARP) Summit, which was held on 17-19 September 2014 in Seoul, was an event that opened a new chapter in the peace movement worldwide. The topic of this event was “The Enactment of an International Law for the Cessation of Wars and Legacy of Peace and the World Alliance of Religions.”

This summit was groundbreaking in that it presented “the World Alliance of Religions” as a concrete proposition for realizing the cessation of wars and world peace. The first measure is to sign the Unity of Religions Agreement, and the second measure is to present the Agreement to Propose the Enactment of an International Law for the Cessation of Wars and encourage political and religious leaders around the world to participate. In this regard, the summit is expected to serve as a starting point for opening a new era of world peace.  

The WARP Summit was hosted by Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL, Chairman Man Hee Lee), which is a purely non-governmental organization, and it was attended by more than 50 former and current heads of state including presidents, vice presidents, and prime ministers from all around the world. Stjepan Mesic (former President of Croatia and former President of the Presidency of Yugoslavia), who was among the attendees, said, “This occasion where the heads of state and religious leaders came together for peace is unprecedented. Mr. Man Hee Lee’s idea is really amazing and excellent. This wonderful event will definitely play a positive role in bringing wars to an end and achieving world peace.”

The fact that over 680 religious leaders from 120 countries agreed on the idea of “the World Alliance of Religions” and that they came to the Republic of Korea all the way from foreign countries has a significant meaning in the history of religions. Giani Gurbachan Singh, Jathedar of the Akal Takht, emphasized in his speech at the opening ceremony that “All scriptures are telling us that religions must unite. A religious leader who speaks of division and conflict is not a religious leader.”

The WARP Summit was actively supported by people from all walks of life. Since young people are the biggest victims of war, it is natural that over 600 representatives and members of youth organizations in 139 countries attended the event. Also, women—whose sons and husbands participate in war—actively participated in the WARP Summit. The fact that women’s organizations, including the International Women’s Peace Group (IWPG, Chairwoman Nam Hee Kim), played a key role in the event was enthusiastically received by the foreign press. Over 200 reporters of more than 100 media organizations from 80 countries reported the full schedule of the WARP Summit to their countries in real time at the official press conference, held as a pre-event at Walkerhill Hotel Convention Center.

An anchorman of a famous broadcasting station, who asked not to be named, said, “I have often heard of the peace movement of Mr. Man Hee Lee, so I came to this event. The message that he delivered to the heads of state and religious leaders around the world for the cessation of wars and the achievement of world peace was impressive. The message of Ms. Nam Hee Kim saying that women are working together for world peace in the spirit of motherly love in order to protect children really touched my heart.”

On the first day of the WARP Summit, the opening ceremony was held at Seoul Olympic Stadium. The event was attended by approximately 200,000 people both inside and outside of the stadium, establishing itself as the biggest event ever for peace. The Card Section performance by 12,000 members of the youth organizations presented a spectacular view and delivered the message of peace to the whole world. On-ground performances expressing the wish for peace also left an unforgettable impression on the attendees.

At the opening ceremony, a congratulatory video message from Archbishop Desmond Tutu, the spiritual leader of South Africa and recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize in 1984, attracted much attention. In his message, he said, “I would like to congratulate both Chairman Man Hee Lee and the members of HWPL for hosting the World Alliance of Religions’ Peace Summit. Thank you for delivering the message of peace and the cessation of wars to the whole world.”

On the 18th, the second day of the WARP Summit, religious leaders proclaimed they will transcend religion and denomination and embark upon the establishment of the unity of religions in order to bring about world peace. Twelve religious leaders, including Antonio Ledesma (Archbishop of Cagayan de Oro, Philippines), Swami Chidanand Saraswati (the president of Parmarth Niketan Ashram), Martin De Jesus Barahona (Bishop of the Anglican Episcopal Church of El Salvador), and Giani Gurbachan Singh (Jathedar of the Akal Takht), participated in the signing ceremony of the Unity of Religions Agreement. Through this agreement, they declared to work with people all around the world to realize world peace through the unity of religions, saying, “All religions must unite as one under the name of God.”

Representatives from different nations gave speeches under the theme of “Religious Conflicts and World Peace” on that day. The event was attended by heads of state, ambassadors, and other dignitaries. Five group sessions also took place that afternoon to encourage participants to share methods of cooperation to achieve the cessation of wars and world peace. Representatives from each nation including political and religious leaders, prime ministers, and chief justices attended the various sessions. The Agreement to Propose the Enactment of an International Law was declared along with Unity of Religions Agreement, and political leaders and government officials of the world pledged to be on the frontlines of spreading the necessity of enacting an international law to bring cessation of wars.

On the last day of the event, the 19th, a total of 200,000 people, including the participants of the Summit, the members of youth and women’s groups, and local citizens, participated in the Walk for World Peace near Seoul Olympic Park. This event, hosted by the International Peace Youth Group (IPYG), commemorated the huge success of the World Alliance of Religions’ Peace Summit, attended by about 600 members from youth and women groups representing organizations in 139 countries.

Mr. Man Hee Lee, the chairman of HWPL, emphasized the realization of the cessation of wars and world peace through the unity of religions in numerous meetings with the media. This was stressed through a press conference with foreign media that took place on the day before the opening ceremony. Another press conference with national and international reporters was held at the conclusion of the Summit on the 19th. Mr. Lee said that through the World Alliance of Religions’ Peace Summit, “The wars within humanity can be avoided by the determination in our hearts, and we can accomplish a world of peace to leave as a legacy for our future generations.” He also brought attention to the role of those of faith, the religious people, for this purpose. Mr. Lee also encouraged the media from different countries of the world to frequently report on the peace agreement signed at the Peace Summit.

Peace Advocate, Man Hee Lee, Declares the Urgency to Amend International Law at the United Nations

Man Hee Lee visit New York

 NEW YORK, Dec. 10, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- During the 16th World Tour of Peace Advocate Man Hee Lee addressed United Nations (UN) officials, lawmakers, religious, youth, and women leaders of the need to amend international law. Mr. Lee's Peace initiative of an international law for the cessation of wars was the focus of Peace Resolution 2015. Over 500 peace advocates agreed to collaborate joining the international peace movement. This conference was a prime example of gatherings needed to further UN goals. Yvan Ilunga of UNESCO Center for Peace NY Chapter commented on the success of the conference, "By bringing people together from different backgrounds at this point in time, to bring everyone on board to discuss the core issue of peace to define the right framework for the nations to achieve sustainable peace." Mr. Lee and HWPL are creating this platform for all groups wanting peace. Mr. Lee and his delegation met with high-ranking UN officials to discuss the necessity of a collaborative effort to amend international law. Mr. Lee is the Chairman of Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL) an international peace organization that has made strides by reminding leaders and lawmakers of the global community of their responsibility to protect the citizens. The effectiveness of Mr. Lee's message is evidenced by a cease-fire in January after Mr. Lee led a conflict resolution conference. It ended the violent, 40-year religious conflict in Mindanao, Philippines between Catholic and Muslim communities.

Currently he is advocating strongly for the reunification of North and South Korea. Mr. Lee's efforts will be the key factor in bringing reconciliation between this divided nation. On his 15thWorld Tour to Bucharest, Romania, He spoke concerning the reunification of Korea and met with President-elect Klaus Ionhannis on November 21st at the Senate Hall.

On September 17-19, HWPL hosted the World Alliance of Religions Peace Summit. Approximately 200,000 people and 2,500 leaders from 170 countries gathered to end war and bring peace. Mr. Lee signed the Unity of Religion Agreement with renowned religious leaders, a much-needed step toward peace. Mr. Lee plans to implement a similar agreement pertaining to international law on a worldwide scale.

Man Hee Lee, peace advocate from South Korea in many different parts of the world

He traveled around world more than 7 Times and he met many of world leaders and religionsleader. HWPL’s goal is that all of world leaders write their signature on Peace agreement and that they keep it for world peace.

Man Hee Lee visit Uganda

Ma Hee visit Philipine

Man Hee Lee visit Ethiopia

Opening Ceremony of 2014 WARP Summit

SEOUL | September 18, 2014

• Former heads of state, leaders of various countries and representatives of different religions delivered their congratulatory messages
• A variety of performances catching the eyes of people all around the world

On September 17, the Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL, Chairman Man Hee Lee) held the 2014 World Alliance of Religions’ Peace Summit at the Seoul Olympic Stadium.

During the opening ceremony, the entrance of distinguished guests was followed by the spectacular Card Section performance, which conveyed the vanity of war. As the host of the event, Mr. Man Hee Lee delivered the opening address in which he said, “If the heads of state love their country and people, they should sign an international agreement that would put an end to all wars and bring about peace.” After that, Ms. Nam Hee Kim, the chairwoman of the International Women’s Peace Group (IWPG), delivered the commemorative address and spoke about how she changed after meeting the true advocate of peace and about the power of women that can achieve world peace.

Prior to the opening address, a video was shown of Mr. Lee’s peace movement and his World Peace Tours, during which he travelled to 54 countries and delivered the message of peace. In January in Mindanao of the Philippines—one of the most war-torn regions in Asia—Mr. Lee played a key role in resolving the 40-year conflict between Catholics and Muslims through a peace agreement. Also, in Zamboanga City of Mindanao, Mr. Lee presented the practical solution to peace at the Peace Walk in which over 12,000 people participated.

Messages congratulating the opening of the 2014 World Alliance of Religions’ Peace Summit were delivered by Emil Constantinescu, the former President of Romania; Kgalema Petrus Motlanthe, the Deputy President of South Africa; Alexander Rutskoy, the former Vice President of Russia; Bertie Ahern, the former Taoiseach of Ireland; Stjepan Mesic, the former President of Croatia; Gaudencio Rosales, Archbishop Emeritus of Manila; Giani Gurbachan Singh, the Jathedar of Akal Takht; and Shmuley Boteach, an American Orthodox Rabbi. Notably, Emil Constantinescu, the president of ICD Academy and former President of Romania, said in his congratulatory speech that “everyone in the world should become the messenger of peace, irrespective of nationality or race.”

After Mr. Lee proclaimed the opening of the summit, a variety of congratulatory performances including “Dance of Peace, Festival of Light” and “World is One” were presented.

International Peace Youth Group made their entrance during the opening ceremony of the 2014 WARP Summit.

Religious leaders made their entrance during the opening ceremony of the 2014 WARP Summit.

Ploitical Leaders made their entrance during the opening ceremony of the 2014 WARP Summit.

International Women's Peace Group made their entrance during the opening ceremony of the 2014 WARP Summit.

International Peace Advocate Mr Lee Visits Japan

On the 70th Anniversary of the end of World War II, South Korean peace advocate and Chairman of Heavenly Culture World Peace Restoration of Light (HWPL) Mr. Man Hee Lee made a 3-day visit to Japan, following his visit to China. Amongst the topics of discussion during his meetings with Chinese and Japanese leaders were the recent territorial disputes within Asia and the denuclearization of the Korean peninsula.

While in China, Mr. Lee was awarded the ‘Peace Advocate of World Peace’ award from the Vice President of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), Zhang Meiying.
Addressing women’s groups, youth groups, cultural and religious leaders in Japan, Chairman Lee spoke on the theme of The Source to Achieve World Peace.

“If each nation’s heads and leaders desire for world peace and love their people, they should sign the cessation of war into international law and sign the peace agreement, affirming that they will cooperate to achieve peace” said Chairman Lee. Following the speech, the peace agreement was unanimously signed by attending leaders.

Nearly the end of the meetings with leaders, Pema Gyalpo, the professor of law in Toin University of Yokohama, who is also known as the founder of GIFT (Global Issues Forum) rushed to meet Mr. Man Hee Lee after his trip from India. He showed respect to Mr. Lee for his diligent work for peace and shared many common grounds with him as a veteran himself. After their conversation, the professor suggested to act as advisor for the international law that the Chairman is pursuing. He also decided to sign the peace agreement and agreed to participate ‘World Alliance of Religions: Peace Summit 2014’ hosted by HWPL on this coming September.

Furthermore, Chairman Lee also met with the International Buddhist Congregation (IBC) in Japan. Among the topics addressed during their meeting was the critical role of religion. He also spoke on the importance of the peace agreement as a commitment to continue mutual cooperation for peace, “Practical evidence is necessary such as the peace agreement of Mindanao Island” said Chairman Lee. Afterwards, the Chairwoman of the International Women’s Peace Group (IWPG) Nam Hee Kim emphasized the need for international cooperation through cultural events and meetings. She addressed young women leaders, calling them to actively work for peace.

Last January, Mr. Lee mediated a peace agreement in the war-torn region of Mindanao, Philippines, where regional religious tension between Catholics and Muslims has led to over 10,000 casualties. Working with the citizens of the Philippine city Zamboanga, Chairman Lee organized a Peace Walk that gathered over 12,000 participants—a bold proclamation that world peace is possible.

Mr. Lee is now currently on his 14th world tour, having visited 54 countries. Media stations like Korea Today, Asia News Agency and Dongyang Economic News documented and broadcasted the news of Mr. Lee’s Northeast Asia visit.

Man Hee Lee and HWPL Peace Summit

Press Conference for the World Alliance of Religions: Peace Summit Commences

Governmental and religious leaders, youth organizations, and women groups gather to attend the world’s largest peace summit held in the Republic of South Korea, where a sustainable solution to peace will be presented, as well as methods and programs for the cessation of war.

On September 17-18, the 2014 World Alliance of Religions’ Peace (WARP) Summit will be held in Seoul, the Republic of Korea. The locations where the summit will be held are the Gate of Peace, Jamsil Sports Complex Stadium and 63 Building Convention Center. Approximately 200,000 people are scheduled to attend. Among them are 1,500 leaders including international heads of states and leading representatives of world religions such as Catholicism, Protestantism, Eastern Orthodox Church, Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism, as well as organizations working in collaboration with the International Peace Youth Group (IPYG) and the International Women’s Peace Group (IWPG). Over 100 national broadcasting companies from around the world will also cover the events of the WARP summit.

A question was posed to Mr. Lee in a press conference held before the first day: "The Middle East is a region rife with religious wars and conflicts. Is it possible to achieve peace here as in Mindanao, Philippines?” Mr. Lee responded, “Just because peace is achieved in the Middle East does not mean world peace is achieved. Rather than considering an issue that is confined to only one region, we need to resolve the fundamental problem that has its roots worldwide. Therefore, heads of state around the world must come to an agreement to establish an international law that bans war so that all wars come to an end permanently.” Mr. Lee is a global peace advocate and the Chairman of Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL) as well as IPYG and IWPG.

Also, Ms. Nam Hee Kim said, “Until now, women have been perceived as weak. But through Mr. Lee, I gained confidence that women can also play a central role in achieving world peace. This is because the power to protect the children who are forced out to battlefields is in the mothers. If all women in the world unite as one, I am certain that world peace will definitely be achieved.“

Ms. Kim is a global female leader and representative of IWPG.

Following the press conference on September 16 at the Cosmos Hall of Walker Hill Hotel, an HWPL affiliated organization called IPYG hosted a conference for more than 500 leaders of youth groups from 127 nations including nations that are experiencing conflicts such as the Balkan Peninsula, Ukraine, Yemen, Syria, and Israel. They discussed programs that can help build mutual understanding and trust.

Afterwards, a preliminary meeting of the WARP Advisory Council was held, where former and current presidents, prime ministers, premiers, chairmen of the national assemblies, and chief justices of the supreme courts from various nations gathered to share their experience in leadership and future peace initiatives.

Former and current heads of state, important figures from all walks of life and religious leaders with authority will attend this summit where they will devise a specific plan to put an end to wars around the world. They will also present a real solution to religious conflicts. The number of people attending the summit as well as the scale of this event is expected to be unprecedented.

 

World Peace Tour and inter-religious dialogu

We call on the heads of state of every country to sign an international agreement—a commitment to bringing all wars to an end. We ask them to do this from a spirit of deep-seated love for the people of their country

HWPL AND WARP

Peace Delegation World Tours
The day when wars cease will be an accomplishment that will profoundly change the lives of every person in the global family. Hence, the Chairman of HWPL has often stated that such a vast measure requires the united efforts of religious leaders, political leaders, youth and women internationally.
Since 2012, HWPL has sent peace delegation to ___ countries. The peace delegation, comprising of the Chairman of HWPL, and the representatives of International Women’s Peace Group and the International Peace Youth Group, have dedicated their lives for the goal of peace and cessation of war, often traveling multiple time zones in one day, skipping meals and losing sleep.
To date, the HWPL peace delegation has traveled on 14 world tours. Through these tours, HWPL devises programs where religious and political figures collaborate closely, a key aspect of HWPL’s unique approach. Signees of the HWPL Declaration for Peace from all faiths and parties bridge societal divisions through inter-religious dialogue, awareness campaigns and policy discussion.

A Diverse Global Network
Working with leaders ranging from presidents in Africa, to religious leaders and teachers in Europe; from peace activists and Nobel Peace Prize laureates in Burma, to the indigenous leaders of South American peoples. The effectiveness of HWPL’s meetings with heads of state and other leaders of influence stems from a principle that leaders who love the people of their country will work together with peace.
With this simple yet profound common ground, over 50 heads of states have signed the Agreement to Propose the Enactment of an International Law, a pledge to end war through international law. 

A Commitment to End War
Through the signing of the HWPL Peace Agreement, leaders join a commitment to earnestly work together for peace through the unity of religions and the cessation of war by meeting often and updating one another and their respective constituents.
To advance the commitment, HWPL regularly hosts dialogues to convene leaders in engaging, in-depth analyses in smaller settings. With the opportunity to collaborate together in these round-table discussions, leaders are able to construct practical solutions to the issues at hand.
On a larger scale, HWPL also hosts regional peace conferences in the major international hubs of the world, including Seoul, Washington D.C., Frankfurt, and Cape Town. These symposiums are open-door and offer opportunities for local residents and youth to take part in the discussion on peace-building methods.
Most recently, HWPL hosted the World Alliance of Religions: Peace Summit 2014 in Seoul, South Korea which gathered over 700 religious leaders, 50 heads of states and 200,000 attendees to discuss the role of religion as a means to unite rather than instigate conflict and war. 

Man Hee Lee, message for the world peace

"People of the world, we all live under the same sky, stand on the same land, and breath the same air.  Let us love one another.  The light that will bring world peace."

-Man Hee Lee, peace advocate-

Man Hee Lee, Peace advocate

HWPL and Chairman Man Hee Lee open the door for interfaith dialogue through WARP Summit

Since its inception, HWPL endeavors to advocate leadership that begins with the people. With that vision centering our work, HWPL has sent peace delegations to over 72 countries and counting. Through these delegations, HWPL strives to represent community interests by meeting with various political leaders, religious figures, and persons of influence to make the work of peace-building a domestic and international priority

These bridges are solidified by the Agreement of Solidarity, a statement of intent to cooperate in the pursuit of peace. HWPL’s peace delegations parties sent to conflict zones have acted as key mediators to re-build relationships eroded by years of conflict. The monumental Mindanao Islam-Catholic peace agreement in 2014 set a precedent that leaders and youth can create sustainable peace together.

WARP Summit interfaith dialogue

2014 World Alliance of Religions 

On September 18, on the second day of the 2014 World Alliance of Religions’ Peace (WARP) Summit, Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL, Chairman Man Hee Lee) hosted a conference on the topic of “The Alliance of Religions “ at the Grand Ballroom of 63 Convention Center located in Yeouido, Seoul. During the conference, speeches on the cessation of wars, religious conflicts, and world peace were delivered and the signing ceremony of the peace agreement was held.

As the keynote speaker, Mr. Man Hee Lee, the chairman of HWPL, came on to the platform and delivered a speech on the topic of “The Cessation of War and World Peace.” In his keynote speech, Mr. Lee appealed for religious leaders’ cooperation, saying, “Religion that should love all life is causing conflicts in which the lives of people are taken away, putting the world at risk of destruction. The only way to protect the world from destruction is for the religious leaders to unite as one.” Also, he emphasized that the cessation of wars stipulated in international law is the basic step toward building world peace, and he made clear that resolving the fundamental problems of international and interreligious conflicts is the way to establish true peace and to promote justice.  

Furthermore, Ms. Nam Hee Kim, the chairwoman of the International Women’s Peace Group, emphasized the significance of the peace agreement by saying in her speech, “This peace agreement may seem like just a piece of paper without any powers, but the agreement has tremendous power to bring about peace.”

Afterwards, religious leaders of the supreme authority representing 12 religions— Candomblé, Jainism, Shi’a Islam, Sunni Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Catholicism, Anglican Church, Sikhism, Judaism, Zoroastrianism, and Baha’i Faith—signed the Unity of Religion Agreement. Since many wars in the world are fuelled by religious ideology, religious leaders had a productive time together to unite to put an end to religious conflicts together. 

This signing ceremony was attended and supported by 15 former heads of state including Emil Constantinescu, the former President of Romania; Bertie Ahern, the former Prime Minister of Ireland; Stjepan Mesic, the former President of Croatia; Alexander Rutskoy, the former Vice President of Russia; Eduardo Duhalde, the former President of Argentina; and Kgalema Petrus Motlanthe, the former President of South Africa.

  On the same day, speeches on the topic of “Religious Conflicts and Peace” were delivered by Haris Silajdzic, the former President of Bosnia and Herzegovina; Swami Chidanand Saraswati, the president of Parmarth Niketan Ashram; Ashin Nyanissara, the founder of Sitagu Buddha Vihara; Giani Gurbachan Singh, Jathedar of the Akal Takht; Tawakkol Karman, the Nobel Peace Prize laureate in 2011; Martin De Jesus Barahona, Bishop of the Anglican Episcopal Church of El Salvador; Antonio J. Ledesma, Archbishop of Cagayan de Oro, Philippines; and Emil Constantinescu, the former President of Romania. During this session, each representative spoke about their views on religious conflicts and peace.  

  After the commemorative photographing and luncheon for VIP religious leaders, group sessions were held on various topics pertaining to the future direction for achieving the unity of religion, the efforts needed for an international law on the cessation of wars and world peace, and overcoming conflict and division.

Chairman Man Hee Lee 

Man Hee Lee, Peace Maker

Peace Agreement Ceremony, the Highlight of theWARP Summit!

Man Hee Lee of HWPL at the WARP Summit in South Korea 2014

 

The agreement stated that religious leaders must unite their religions as one under the Creator in order to bring all wars to an end and leave world peace as a legacy to future generations, and representatives of the UN should make the utmost efforts to enact an international law for the cessation of all wars and contribute to world peace.  It also stated that all the signatories should become peace advocates who delivers this news to people around the world and encourage them to cooperate in the work of achieving world peace. 

Afterward, Ms. Nam Hee Kim, the charwoman of the IWPG said in her speech, "This agreement is only a beginning, but it has a tremendous power that will united a promise with another and turn the whole world into a world of peace.  This one piece of paper connects one country with another and unites different  classes and different religions at one."