General News
3 November, 2026
Community gathers for World Day of Peace
MORE than 200 people from across Cairns’ religious and multicultural communities have gathered for a World Day of Prayer for Peace event, marking 40 years since faith leaders met in Assisi, Italy.
Hosted by the Catholic Church, the interfaith gathering brought together religious leaders, school students and community members to reflect on peace and unity.
The event commemorated the 1986 gathering, initiated by Pope St John Paul II during the Cold War.
Andrea Obeyesekere, executive leader for the Catholic Diocese of Cairns in mission and ministry, said the anniversary was an opportunity for people of different religious backgrounds to come together.
“So, 40 years ago, that was the time of the Cold War. Since then, we’ve had so many conflicts and times, such as COVID, when there was a real need to pray for our world,” she said.
Seven schools attended the event, with primary and secondary students joining representatives of different faiths and denominations.
Students from St Monica’s College attended and one student emphasised the importance of equality and mutual respect.
“We believe that everyone’s made in the image of God, so everyone should be treated equally,” the student said. Another student reflected on the gathering of people from different cultural backgrounds.
Participants had the opportunity to speak, light candles and share a meal, with a cake-cutting ceremony also marking the anniversary.
