Over 41 representatives from ten religious groups, community organizations, and local law enforcement gathered on February 3 for the 2025 World Interfaith Harmony Prayer Breakfast, hosted by the Interfaith Council of Peel at Applewood United Church. Centered on the theme “Peace Is the Way,” the event underscored interfaith dialogue as a path to trust, tolerance, and cooperation among diverse communities.

Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto was represented by Superintendent Venerable Zhi Guan, Venerable Ru Zhong, and Localization Team Leader Wilson Yau. They joined faith leaders from the Bahá'í, Christian, Hindu, Jewish, Muslim, Sikh, Zoroastrian, Universal Sufi, and Theravāda Buddhist traditions. Local officials, including Mississauga city councilors and Peel Regional Police representatives, were also in attendance.

Hugh Miller of Applewood United Church welcomed guests, expressing gratitude for their shared commitment to world peace. Venerable Zhi Guan recited the Prayer for World Peace by Venerable Master Hsing Yun, while Venerable Ru Zhong led the chanting of the Medicine Buddha Mantra, offering blessings for social stability, peace, and well-being. Religious leaders from other traditions contributed prayers, hymns, and chants in their respective languages, calling for unity and racial harmony.

Held in observance of the United Nations' World Interfaith Harmony Week, the gathering provided a platform for faith leaders to share their traditions, discuss challenges within their communities, and reaffirm the importance of interfaith collaboration. Attendees agreed that dialogue and cooperation are essential to fostering lasting peace, strengthening connections among different religious groups, and promoting harmony in the Peel region.