Parliament of Worlds Religion 1999 Capetown SA

Author(s): Parliament of the World’s Religions
Publisher: USA Parliament of the Worlds Religions

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1999 CIETS OF SERVICE TO THE WORLD
FFERING GIFTS OF SERVICE TO THE WORLD
The Parliament of the World's Religions is committed to providing inspiration and direction for those wishing to offer gifts of service to the world. To give such a gift is an expression of the fundamental spiritual inclination towards generosity, caring, hospitality, compassion, and good will. The extent to which goodness has existed in the world has often been directly related to the giving of such gifts and the spirit in which they are given. In spite of the progress made though ambitious endeavors and noble institutions, the fate of the world continues to rest on such gifts—and now, more than ever.
support for individuals, groups, and communities choosing to offer their projects as Gifts of Service to the World. In addition, the Council pledges to track the progress of all Gifts of Service and to report on them periodically to Parliament supporters and within the next three years. The Council will endeavor to publish a revised and expanded Parliament Book of Gifts, incorporating new gifts/projects created at and after the 1999 event. As we approach the 2004 Parliament, therefore, the Gifts of Service project will continue to grow. New seeds will be planted; new ideas will emerge; new commitments will be fostered; and a new day will indeed be dawning
The Parliament's invitation to offer gifts of service comes in the midst of worldwide attention to the crossing of the threshold into a new century and, for many, a new millennium. The Council for a Parliament of the World's Religions-in partnership with the Millennium Institute of Arlington, Virginia-has seized this unique opportunity to inspire individuals, organizations, groups, and religious and spiritual communities to offer strategic gifts, which are projects that will make long-term differences within the planetary cornmunity.
Note Those interested in proposing a project for inclusion in the Gifts of Service to the World program should complete the Gift Description Worksheet included in this book. Please read the Criteria listed below before completing the Worksheet.
For the past two years, the Council has worked to encourage the offering of such gifts and to collect descriptions of some of them for publication in this volume, The1999 Parliament Book of Gifts. This collection of exemplary gifts/projects will be shared at the 1999 Parliament, and will provide inspiration to Parliament participants and others to ask what they can do in their own communities, regions, and lands, to make a difference.
Aims Gifts proposed for CPWR's Gifts of Service to the World program should give expression to one or more of the following aims and should be consistent with each.
To embody the highest human aspirations for meaning and purpose in life To alleviate suffering
To assist in the pursuit of justice, peace, and the humane treatment of all human beings To nurture harmony with the Earth
We believe that many new gifts/projects will be created at, and after the 1999 Parliament, and we encourage all interested parties to register such Gifts of Service at the 1999 Parliament or after the event, by contacting the Council. CPWR pledges to work in close cooperation with the Millennium Institute and other organizations to nurture a responsive network for the exchange of ideas, information, contacts, and
To foster respect and mutuality between diverse peoples, cultures, and religions
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