The Peace Journey of the Monks

Contributed by Susan Posey, Redeemer Lutheran, McLean

In a world where troubling news abounds, Tysons Interfaith is dedicating 2026 to highlighting “What’s Going Right.”  Whether it is individuals, organizations or nations working to improve the lives of others and to build a just and peaceful future for all of us, there is always good news to be found.

We hope the following blog post will bring you encouragement and inspiration to make a positive difference in your own corner of the world.

This week, Ramadan began for our Muslim brothers and sisters, and the season of Lent began for many in the Christian community.  As we enter this time of reflection, I hope all (however we experience the Divine) will remember the remarkable journey of the Buddhist monks who recently completed their 2,300 walk for peace.

Their message for individual and collective peace seemed to resonate with people they encountered on the 108-day walk. In deed, people were hungry for it. The ceremony welcoming the monks to National Cathedral on February 10 was attended by thousands of people, including faith leaders from all types of faiths.

In his remarks at National Cathedral, the Venerable Bhikkhu Pannakara concluded that he hopes the message of peace the monks carried is something we will unlock in our own hearts and minds every day.

There are many press accounts about the monks’ incredible journey.  Here is just one:

https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/buddhist-monks-15-week-walk-peace-ends-washington-dc-rcna258458

To view the ceremony held at National Cathedral on February 10, please visit:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C5lbugF8PHY

This blog post is the expressed opinion of its writer and does not necessarily reflect the views of Tysons Interfaith or its members.