On November 13, Fo Guang Shan (FGS) Temple of Toronto welcomed participants to theInterfaith Council of Peel’s Annual General Meeting.  30 representatives from 12 religious and community organizations gathered both in person and online. The event brought together a diverse interfaith community, including voices from Christianity,Catholicism, Judaism, Islam, Baháʼí, Hinduism, and Buddhism. Governmental representatives from the Region of Peel, Peel Regional Police Religious Affairs Office, Peel Newcomer Strategy Group, and Metamorphosis Network also attended.

Venerable Chueh Fan, Abbess of FGS Temple of Toronto, warmly welcomed leaders from various faiths. She emphasized the importance of building collective agreement as the foundation for advocating and advancing peace. In her opening remarks, she encouraged collaboration across faiths to foster societal harmony.

As part of the meeting’s opening, Venerable Chueh Fan led the Land Acknowledgement on behalf of the co-organizers. This gesture recognized the contributions of Indigenous communities to Canada’s prosperity and highlighted the significance of maintaining harmonious relationships between people and the land. She urged faith leaders to initiate dialogue with government representatives, identifying common ground to promote equity and peace.

Co-chairs Joanne Hedge and Urz Heer outlined the Interfaith Council of Peel’s nearly 30-year mission to unite diverse faith communities in pursuit of peace, social justice, and equity. Discussions during the meeting focused on building consensus for peace within the local community, emphasizing the shared values of harmony that unite people of all faiths.

Representatives from Peel government and local organizations provided updates on societal trends, addressing political and religious matters. Chaplain Curtis Hinds, coordinator of Peel’s mental and spiritual health counseling program, highlighted the influence of faith communities in driving positive social change. “People of faith have substantial impact and influence in the community. We must come together to promote the collective welfare of oursociety,” he said.

The Peel Newcomer Strategy Group presented insights on immigration, sharing plans to enhance services and opportunities for newcomers to the region.

Following the presentations, attendees participated in small group discussions to foster mutual understanding and collaboration. Each group shared insights into their respective faiths, including core values, daily practices, significant rituals, and religious doctrines. These exchanges deepened appreciation for the diversity of religious and cultural traditions while reinforcing a shared commitment to inclusivity and respect.