World Interfaith Harmony Week 2025: A Journey of Unity, Love, and Peace 

The vibrant atmosphere of unity and shared purpose was palpable at the World Interfaith Harmony Week 2025 event, held on Saturday, February 8th at the Sri Sathya Sai International Organization in collaboration with Chinmaya Mission Toronto. The event’s theme, Faiths Together: Strengthening Love, Peace, and Community Bonds, brought together a rich tapestry of faiths and traditions in a celebration of shared humanity and understanding. 

The gathering, which took place from 10:30 AM to 1:00 PM, was a heartfelt reminder of how different religious beliefs can converge to build a stronger, more compassionate world. As attendees filled the room, the day’s program began with warmth and reverence, setting the tone for what would be a transformative experience for all involved. 

Opening Words of Welcome 

Sister Devina member of the SSSIO – Canada, co-host for the event, kicked off the proceedings with an eloquent welcome, extending gratitude to everyone present and to those who had worked tirelessly behind the scenes to bring the event to life. “We are absolutely thrilled to have you here with us today as we gather to celebrate and reflect on the theme, Faiths Together: Strengthening Love, Peace, and Community Bonds,” Devina remarked, her voice filled with enthusiasm and compassion. Her co-host Sister Gaytrie member of the Chinmaya Mission, echoed the sentiment, sharing her excitement for a day filled with inspiration, prayer, music, and profound dialogue. 

Before diving into the core of the program, the event took a moment for a Land Acknowledgement, with Sister Gaytrie honoring the traditional territories of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, the Anishinaabe, Haudenosaunee, and Wendat peoples. This moment of reflection grounded the gathering in the spirit of respect for the land and its people. 

Invocation Prayers and Lighting of Lamps 

The first spiritual offering of the day came in the form of Invocation Prayers led by the children of Chinmaya Mission Toronto, followed by the youth of the Sri Sathya Sai International Organization (SSSIO). These prayers filled the air with reverence, their words an invitation to reflect on the deep spiritual roots that connect all faiths. 

The next symbol of unity was the Lighting of Lamps, where faith leaders from different traditions came forward to light lamps, a symbolic gesture representing the light of wisdom, truth, and unity. Each lamp lit was a reminder that, regardless of our differences, we are all united in our shared humanity and our desire for peace. 

Opening Remarks and Reflections on Faith 

With the tone set by the prayers and symbolism of light, the first set of Opening Remarks followed. Prof. Sivakumaran Nadarajah, the National President of SSSIO Canada, took the stage and delivered an inspiring address, emphasizing the importance of love, compassion, and unity in these challenging times. His words resonated deeply with all present as he spoke about the need for collective action in fostering global harmony. 

Swamini Shivapriyananda from Chinmaya Mission Toronto was next, offering her thoughts on the deep spiritual connections that bind humanity. With profound insights into the Vedic tradition, Swamini Shivapriyananda reminded the audience of the oneness of all beings, echoing the ancient wisdom of interconnectedness that transcends religious boundaries. 

Interfaith Panel Discussion 

The heart of the event was undoubtedly the Interfaith Panel Discussion. Moderated by Prof. Siva, the panel featured respected faith leaders who shared their perspectives on key themes: love, compassion, respect, and forgiveness. Each panelist brought a unique perspective from their respective faith traditions, showcasing how their teachings fostered unity, love, and the spirit of service. 

Julie Shuter, who grew up in a reformed Jewish household and was deeply influenced by Sathya Sai Baba, spoke movingly about the universality of love and how, despite religious differences, the essence of love remains the same across faiths. She emphasized the idea that “the names may be different, but they all denote the one and only God for all mankind.” 

Alim Ali, a retired CPA born into a Muslim family, reflected on the importance of compassion in Islam, underscoring that true faith cannot exist without empathy for others. His words were a powerful reminder that showing kindness and understanding to strangers is a fundamental aspect of all religious teachings. 

The panel also heard from Prithpal Singh Chaggar, a devout Sikh and humanitarian, who discussed the Sikh principle of “Seva” (selfless service) as a way of life. He reminded the audience that service to humanity, regardless of background or belief, is a key way to cultivate peace and unity in the world. 

Father Tony, a respected member of the Huronia Spiritual Centre, though unable to attend in person, sent his heartfelt message. His words, shared through Devina, focused on the power of love and acceptance that Christianity teaches and how this can unite diverse communities in a shared spirit of peace. 

The discussion continued with a series of thought-provoking questions, asking panelists to reflect on how their faiths guide them in accepting the oneness of humanity and serving others. The emphasis on forgiveness, mutual respect, and love struck a chord with everyone present, reminding all that unity is not merely an ideal but a daily practice. 

Study Circle: A Time for Reflection 

Following the panel discussion, participants engaged in a Study Circle, where they broke into smaller groups to reflect on the themes of love, peace, and forgiveness. It was a time of deep personal reflection, where the guiding questions prompted everyone to think about how they could embody these values in their own lives. 

A particularly poignant moment followed when Rev. Earl Smith, the Minister of the Church of Scientology and a member of the Interfaith Mission in the Greater Toronto Area, stepped forward to offer his words of wisdom. Rev. Smith reminded the gathering of the intrinsic connection that binds us all. “We are all born with the birthright of service,” he said, encouraging the audience to embrace a life of service to one another. His powerful message of oneness and the importance of selfless service resonated deeply with everyone present, reinforcing the day’s core message of unity. 

Closing Reflections and Musical Offering 

The day’s program concluded with a Musical Offering by the Youths of the Sri Sathya Sai International Organization, which featured devotional songs and pieces that celebrated unity in diversity, including Sarva Dharma, Vahe Guru Bol, Qawali, and Amazing Grace. The music was a beautiful reminder of how melody and rhythm transcend language and cultural barriers, uniting hearts in shared joy. 

Finally, Sister Preeti guided the gathering through the closing reflections, inviting all attendees to carry forward the lessons of the day into their communities. Sisters Devina and Gaytrie thanked everyone for their participation, emphasizing the importance of continuing the work of unity and peace. 

As the event concluded, the attendees left with hearts full of inspiration and minds enriched by the profound insights shared throughout the day. The 2025 World Interfaith Harmony Week had fulfilled its promise to bring together diverse faith communities, reminding everyone that the path to peace, love, and unity is one we all walk together. 

Link for more pictures: https://photos.app.goo.gl/5kyGiouCTncDFznn7