The fourth annual 9/11 Interfaith Peace Walk gathered a large crowd.
More than 150 students and interfaith community members gathered at the Church of the Good Shepherd, 64 University Terrace, on Thursday night for an evening of peace.
The fourth annual 9/11 Interfaith Peace Walk was organized by Better Together At Ohio University in partnership with United Campus Ministries with a combined focus in gathering students of all faiths for a walk through Athens, stopping at churches along the way.
“We’re trying to give a space for people to talk,” said Zulfa Rizqiya, a sophomore studying strategic communications and a member of Better Together. “People are coming together as a community … that’s why I think it’s special.”
Nora Kornelakis, another member of Better Together and a sophomore studying international business, agrees, citing the recent events involving Student Senate.
The walk led those in attendance through College Green, through Athens streets and then to a stop at Hillel at Ohio University, where they were welcomed by members of the center and invited to listen to a prayer — the mourner’s kaddish.
The walk concluded at the Islamic Center at Ohio University, where attendees were greeted by members of the Muslim Student Association.
The group ended singing two songs, “I Have Peace Like a River” and “There Is More Love Somewhere.”
Although many people showed up for the walk, it didn’t reach the goal that the organization had set for itself.
“With all the things going on, I thought we might see some more (attendees),” said Evan Young, UCM Campus Minister. “It’s a powerful event. … Our diversity is an asset to be celebrated. That’s what I see when I look out (at the crowd).”
Still, the group achieved its purpose of bringing a space for peace to campus and the community.
“I think it’s the one time of year that we all come together and say that we’re all for peace,” Dean of Students Jenny Hall-Jones said.
@kruseco
sk139011@ohio.edu
