Bill Sanda

Prayer Vigil for the Earth Bill Sanda

Welcome to The Prayer Vigil for the Earth's inspirational photos and texts. Held annually in Washington, DC next to The Washington Monument or Lincoln Memorial for 20 years, The Prayer Vigil community intends that these photos, prophecies, spiritual teachings, and recollections bring harmony and peace on your own journey. The Vigil was founded on Native American spirituality and prophecy with One Mind, One Voice, One Heart, and One Prayer in 1993. Following tradition, volunteers erected a Peace Village comprised of a circle of tipis with a central fire. In 1997 Lakota elder, Harry F. Byrd, requested the Prayer Vigil community invite other religions to join our gathering. As a result, the circle of tipis were joined by Christian altars, African ancestral altars, Tibetan Buddhist flags and a Stupa, Jewish Sukkots, Muslim Calls to Worship, Shumei Taiko drums and Jyorei healing, Sufi Zikirs, Unity's prayers and dancing, Zoroastrian fire ceremonies, world flags brought by The World Peace Prayer Society waved in the wind, etc. Wisdom Keepers from these religions, traditions and organizations shared prayers, ceremonies, and insights with everyone. Drums, musical offerings, chanting, conversations, and laughter also filled the space. Activities for children included a labyrinth, a musical Peace Parade, and a designated tipi for art and fun. Photos of all these activities and their teachings await your enjoyment. One person said, "I can open The Prayer Vigil for the Earth book to any page and find and inspirational image or lesson." The Vigil remained a 100% volunteer event for its entire 20 years. The Prayer Vigil for the Earth was free and open to everyone as a place where similarities were highlighted, and differences respected. Each person was invited to experience peace with self, peace with others, and peace with the Earth. It is a blessing to experience what happens when people come together as many threads weaving a whole and vibrant society on behalf of a life-affirming planetary community. Please join us in prayer for our Earth Community wherever you are, whenever you feel called to do so, and in any way that is appropriate for you. May the seeds of our collective action find fertile ground and flourish.