To address global instability, interfaith solidarity has become increasingly precious. On January 4, the Fo Guang Shan Chicago Buddhist Temple and the Buddha’s Light Young Adult Division (YAD) participated in the “World Peace Day Interfaith Prayer Service.” Through music, dance, and Buddhist wisdom, they joined representatives of diverse faiths to speak up for justice and peace, demonstrating the power of collective action.
The 21st annual World Peace Day Interfaith Prayer Service, organized by the Naperville Interfaith Leaders Association (NILA), took place on January 4 at North Central College in Naperville. Venerable Miao Wei of the Chicago Buddhist Temple led five members of the BLIA Chicago English Subchapter and eight FGS Chicago YAD members to the event.
This year’s theme, “Speak Up! Power in Collective Action,” called upon community members of different religious backgrounds to stand together on important social issues during uncertain times.
The event opened with an Indian prayer dance by the Nrithyanjali School of Dance, where dancers used intricate eye and facial movements to interpret emotional layers of mythological stories. This was followed by performances from The First Congregational Spirit Band, the Bahá’í Community of Naperville, and the Midwest Ismaili Choir, all conveying messages of unity, inclusion, and harmony through music.
Dr. Flo Appel, representing the Jewish synagogue, delivered a moving speech emphasizing the importance of the interfaith prayer service in speaking up for marginalized groups—especially immigrants in danger—and responding to injustice through collective action.
The program concluded with a presentation by the FGS Chicago YAD. Members Di-Wei Wang and Jacob Haverkos introduced the Buddhist concept of “Indra’s Net,” which echoes the “Co-existence and Coprosperity” philosophy advocated by FGS founder Venerable Master Hsing Yun. They explained the profound interconnectedness of all beings in the universe. Following the presentation, the YAD performed the song “Connecting Hearts,” symbolizing the passing of the torch of goodness and the undying light of wisdom, which received an enthusiastic response from the audience. At the end of the event, participants signed a pledge expressing their determination to continue their commitment to social care and support.
Bin-Yi Wang, President of the FGS Chicago YAD, stated that the event closely addressed global issues and fully demonstrated the spirit of Humanistic Buddhism in its active engagement with society. YAD member Di-Wei Wang noted that the service not only strengthened community bonds but also served as a valuable moment for collectively speaking up for justice and peace. Member Yang Zhong, who was responsible for photography and documentation, expressed great honor in interviewing the two founders who initiated this event 21 years ago.
Following the prayer service, representatives from various religions gathered in the hall for interaction. English Subchapter officer Samantha Boie shared that her most memorable experience was building sincere friendships with people of diverse faiths. She particularly enjoyed a deep conversation and exchange of gifts with a Pagan group, feeling a sense of interfaith understanding, inclusion, and warmth through the sharing of teachings and traditions.