The Parliament of the World’s Religions – Day 3

Hello Friends,

It’s our third day at the Parliament of the World’s Religions and we are truly in full swing, in a groove as it were.

Some of the issues of having two groups and two publisher’s books at the same booth have been challenging but not insurmountable. It’s awkward at times but the spirit of cooperation and a desire to understand and create good will are clearly present. Trevor and Kathleen Swadling have done a splendid job getting the booth and the exhibitor aspect of this Parliament organized. The local UAI group ANZURA has completely managed this aspect of the Parliament and as the one who would normally be responsible for it I am deeply appreciative of their efforts.

Today we placed books with some amazing people and many young (twenty-something) people. For instance, we placed the book with a young Israeli man, a young Scientologist, a young couple from Latvia, a young woman from New York, a man from Germany, as well as several local people and these represent just what I have knowledge of. We have placed the book with Buddhists, Hindus, Jews, Sikhs and Christians and we are just getting started.

The Parliament features amazing artists and musicians. Today I went to a concert called Om Shanti Om. It was in honor and tribute to the great poet Rumi. The only word that comes to mind is “sublime.”

Urantia Book reader, Sheila Keene Lund, has launched her new book, Heaven Is Not the Last Stop, at this Parliament. She presented her workshop last night and it was very well attended. At one point she incorporates a creative writing segment for which Cristina and Francyl provided a musical backdrop. Right after the workshop let out, the booth was inundated with people. Larry had the fantastic idea of setting up a table with some books and literature just outside of Sheila’s workshop. When the workshop let out he quickly became swamped with opportunities to share the book.

Marvin learned that the amazing International Agape Choir (directed by Rickie Beckwith, the wife of the Rev. Michael Beckwith) will be performing on the main stage at the Plenary. Marvin learned that their drums and some of their other instruments were lost in transit and since Marvin has his congas, he will be performing with them tonight, along with Cristina on violin and Francyl on guitar. To have these gifted and talented readers on the main stage to perform for everyone at the Parliament will be a dream come true for the rest of us here.

Steve Rorhbach is taking amazing pictures and each night he uploads them to the official Parliament image gallery. Please go here to see Steve’s amazing gallery www.pbase.com/steverohrbach and for more amazing information and images check out the main web site www.cpwr.org and click on photos or just explore.

Believe me when I say, we really wish you all were here.

In awe of the opportunity…..Paula