A big thank you to everyone celebrating 100 years of Rotary in Camrose!
A big thank you to everyone celebrating 100 years of Rotary in Camrose!
Peace poles are a symbolic international effort to promote peace and unity. They are often wooden or stone markers installed in public spaces, schools, churches, and other places around the world. Each pole typically features the message "May Peace Prevail on Earth" inscribed in multiple languages.
The phrase “May Peace Prevail on Earth” is a universal message for world peace. The message was authored by Japanese poet, spiritual teacher, and philosopher Masahisa Goi. He is also referred to as Goi Sensei – Sensei means teacher or master. After the end of World War II and the devastating atomic bombs that were dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Goi felt inspired to spread this message to the global community. His ideas for peace gained support and people began to share the message at peace gatherings with supporters handing out posters and stickers with his message.
The concept of peace poles was subsequently introduced by the Japanese organization, the World Peace Prayer Society, in the 1970s. The goal is to create a visual representation of peace and to serve as a reminder of our shared desire for global harmony.
Each peace pole is unique, often reflecting the cultural or artistic style of the community where it's placed. Some poles are adorned with additional symbols or messages that further emphasize peace and unity. The idea is that these poles act as beacons, spreading a message of peace to all who see them and encouraging individuals and communities to reflect on their own roles in promoting a peaceful world.
There are currently 250,000 Peace Poles that have been placed worldwide, with at least one located in every country in the world.
Rotary Peace Poles are a specific initiative by Rotary International, reflecting the organization's commitment to peace and conflict resolution. The history of Rotary Peace Poles is tied to Rotary's broader mission to foster peace through various programs and projects.
Rotary International, founded in 1905, has long been involved in humanitarian efforts and conflict resolution. Over the decades, Rotary has undertaken various projects to promote peace, including the establishment of Rotary Peace Centers in collaboration with universities worldwide.
The idea of Peace Poles was introduced to Rotary in the early 2000s as part of a broader effort to enhance the visibility of Rotary's peace initiatives. The goal was to align with the World Peace Prayer Society’s concept and create a tangible symbol of Rotary’s commitment to peace.
Peace Poles typically feature the message "May Peace Prevail on Earth" in multiple languages, similar to other peace poles. They are often installed in Rotary’s community service projects or events, serving as a symbol of Rotary's dedication to peace and as a focal point for local and global peace-building activities.
Rotary Peace Poles are used in various ways to engage communities in discussions about peace and to promote peace-related initiatives. They are often unveiled during community events or Rotary meetings and become a focal point for local and international peace efforts.
Over time, Rotary Peace Poles have been installed in numerous locations worldwide, each reflecting the local culture while conveying a universal message of peace. They serve as a reminder of the collective effort needed to achieve and maintain peace.
The installation of peace poles aligns with Rotary’s broader peace programs, including Rotary Peace Fellowships and the Rotary Peace Centers. These initiatives aim to train leaders in conflict resolution and peacebuilding, reinforcing the message conveyed by the peace poles.
Rotary Peace Poles are part of Rotary International’s broader mission to promote peace globally. They symbolize hope and commitment to peace, integrating with Rotary’s other peace-focused activities and contributing to the organization's enduring legacy of humanitarian service. The Peace Poles installed along the Rotary Peace Path in Camrose contain the message May Peace Prevail on Earth inscribed in the native languages of the countries associated with the Rotary Youth Exchange program in Camrose.
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