SOPP 2023 at Fuji Sanctuary

Circulation — A World Connected by Prayer
Sunday, May 21, 2023, 11:00~13:30 Japan time

For the 19th consecutive year, Fuji Sanctuary was the global home of the Symphony of Peace Prayers — a worldwide event for peace on earth and harmony among faiths. This year’s ceremony was once again held online, via a live-stream presentation on YouTube. People around the world were invited to take part in the ceremony by tuning in to the live broadcast and joining in the various prayers for peace.

Watch the recorded broadcast from Fuji Sanctuary here (11am Japan time):

Each year, the SOPP celebrates humanity’s common wish for a world of peace and harmony, through a show of interfaith unity and with shared prayers for peace throughout the world. In recent years, the SOPP has also been the venue for a variety of global initiatives, including the inauguration of the Fuji Declaration (2015), the launch of the Soul of WoMen campaign (2016), and the introduction of the Divine Spark IN (2018).

The theme of this year’s SOPP was “Circulation — A World Connected Through Prayer.” Yuka Saionji, Deputy Chairperson of host organization Byakko Shinko Kai, had the following to say about this year’s theme:

Looking at the world today, we see many phenomena that bring about various divisions, such as wars, poverty, earthquakes and other natural disasters, infectious diseases, and discrimination. And as we look at these divisive phenomena, we get the sense that our consciousness is also becoming more and more divided. However, realizing that our prayers and thoughts are connected in an invisible way, all sincere religious people around the world are praying every day. This year’s SOPP will focus on such beautiful connections and will be held under the theme of “Circulation – A World Connected by Prayer.” It is precisely because the world is now divided that each of us can find hope in a world that is connected through prayer, and from there we can create a cycle. We will make this year’s event such an event.

The program for the live stream presentation was as follows:

Opening
Welcoming Remarks
Praying with the Religions of the World
Fuji Declaration Presentation
Gratitude to All Life
Prayers for Peace in Each Country
Divine Spark IN
Closing

The following prayer leaders and guests appeared at this year’s event:

Whether you joined in this year’s SOPP via the broadcast or took part in a local event, we invite you to send us photos and a brief description of your experience and impressions. Please send these by email to sopp.overseas@gmail.com.

May Peace Prevail on Earth!