The Coming Interspiritual--Archive Edition

values which are universal in nature, transcending the boundaries of religion, ethnicity, gender and geography, the Committee is resolved to help bring about a culture in which we, the peoples of the world, can address together our common global concerns in a positive, holistic and “Unless there is a transforming way and live together in peace with one another, thus realizing the core objectives and spiritual renaissance, universal principles stated in the United Nations the world will Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. know no peace” In honor of the anniversary of the United Nations, 24 October, the CSVGC helped establish the annual Dag Hammarskjold, Secretary-General of the United Nations, 1953-1961 "Spirit of the UN" Award Ceremony, during the 'Week Spirituality, Values and Global Concerns' in 2007, to foster the growth of a culture of peace in which “we, the peoples of the world”, can address together our common challenges in a holistic, positive and transformative way. The Week’s activities recognize that spirituality and adherence to universal values, such as those expressed in the United Nations Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, are important keys to providing solutions to global concerns. The aims of the Week are designed to inspire and generate collective engagement in an annual worldwide celebration.

Members of the UN community and the public are invited to participate. The theme for 2013 will be, "Spirit of the UN" - Ten Years Perspective: Sustainable Spirituality at the United Nations - 21-25 October and Award Ceremony, Monday, 21 October at the UN Church Center.

An International Message People worldwide are joining together in recognition of the universal values shared by all humankind. We could say that the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on 10 December 1948) represents God's hope. It is not a law; it is a goal... 'a common standard of achievement'... something to strive for. When all people have read it, understand it, and come into alignment with its teaching and wisdom, there will be peace on earth, goodwill towards others, and people will act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood.

When we, and all nations, come into alignment with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, citizens of all countries will be free to think and speak and learn and grow according to the truth of their own experience, and do so without denying others the freedom to do the same.

And it is in that freedom that people will learn to live together in peace and justice.

All things are possible where there is freedom being expressed in a spirit of brotherhood. In all nations there will be freedom of religion and that means there will be no such thing as a Christian nation or a Muslim nation or a Jewish nation. All peoples must be free to think and to change and to grow and to love. Practicing religion does not give you permission to rule anyone but yourself.

While we are here on earth, we have an incredible opportunity to recognize and rejoice in the