Students and members of the formation cluster of Xavier University gathered at the re-dedication program for the Peace Park on Thursday morning, July 9.

The re-dedication was held in hopes to remind the XU community of the purpose of the Peace Park now that it has become more conducive for individual or group prayers and other peace-related activities after the improvements made to the area.

The attendees at the re-dedication offered a simple prayer led by Sr Charita Puerto RA.

In her welcome speech, XU vice-president for Mission and Ministry Irene Grace A Guitarte said that the Peace Park is a place for prayer and its presence must remind the XU community to constantly work for the promotion of peace and justice.

Sr Ranette Angot ODN shared the historical background of XU Peace Park especially the presence of the Peace Pole which is a universal symbol for peacemakers around the world.

A video presentation showed how the Peace Pole has been established in different countries and recognized by peace-builders such as Saint Teresa of Calcutta, Dalai Lama and Saint Pope John Paul II, among others.

XU Campus Ministries director Fr Richard V Ella SJ frontlined the launching of a new program, the daily afternoon recitation of the peace prayer by the members of XU - United Religious Organization (XU-URO) and intercessory prayers for prayer requests made by members of the school community. One only needs to fill out the prayer request form and put it inside the drop box installed at the Peace Park.

The re-dedication culminated with the community singing of “Let There Be Peace on Earth” to pray for lasting peace in our country, most especially here in Mindanao.