The 44th annual Memorial Service for the War Dead of All Nations and Prayers for Peace was held August 14 by Shinshuren (Federation of New Religious Organizations of Japan) and its Youth League in Tokyo's Chidorigafuchi National Cemetery. The annual interfaith observance mourns the dead of all wars and calls for a total renunciation of war. Some 2,500 people from Shinshuren's member organizations, including Rissho Kosei-kai, took part. President Niwano participated as Shinshuren's special advisor.

Rev. Seiho Okano, Dharma successor of Gedatsu-kai and Shinshuren's chairman, delivered an opening address in which he appealed to those present to oppose war and any threat of violence to resolve conflicts, wherever they might occur. He emphasized the need for all people to purge their minds of such evils as resentment, jealousy, anger, arrogance, disdain, and selfishness, which are sources of conflict. He also stressed the need to reflect on one's conduct and help others promote harmony through cooperation.

Young women members of Shinshuren then offered lighted candles at the altar in front of the hexagonal building where the ashes of Japan's war dead are enshrined. Following an offering of paper cranes, which are symbols of peace in Japan, representatives of religious organizations proceeded to the altar by turns and led prayers according to their own rituals.

Rev. Yukihiro Hozumi, president-designate of Taiwa Kyodan and chairman of the Shinshuren's Youth League, then delivered a message for peace. Pointing out that there has been no cessation of armed conflict since World War II, he emphasized the importance of striving for harmonious communities in which all people are respected, and he urged the religious youth of Shinshuren's member organizations throughout Japan to unite in opposition to war.

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