The 21st century
has already been dominated by war, terrorism, and other
tensions. Many people have worked relentlessly in an attempt
to bring about world peace. With a desire to provide support
for this cause, BAPS organized an inter-faith Vishwashanti
Mahayagna, or World Peace Prayer. Hundreds of devotees gathered
to pray to God for the restoration of peace and harmony
in the world according to ancient Vedic ritual.
Religious figures
from different faiths, including Buddhism, Christianity,
Islam, Jainism, Judaism, and Sikhism, attended the Mahayagna
to symbolize unity amongst diverse religions. They all greeted
Swamishri and offered a prayer for peace according to their
respective faiths.
The Lieutenant
Governor of Ontario, Honorable James K. Bartleman visited
the Shri Swaminarayan Haveli on this occasion. Swamishri
presented him with a Shikshapatri, a mala, and a shawl.
He in turn gifted Swamishri with traditional Native American
spiritual grass, recognizing Swamishri's efforts for peace.
Swamishri concluded
the prayers by blessing the assembly. He explained that
in order to acquire peace, people must respect all religions,
and must also see God in all by maintaining faith in their
own religion. He thanked the religious figures and all who
attended for being a part of the cause for peace.