Archbishop Leonard Bature Kawas, founder Harvest World Ministries has been named an Ambassador for Peace by the Universal Peace Federation (UPF) during a high-profile ceremony held in Washington, D.C., on 20 June 2026.
The event brought together movie stars, senior government officials, religious leaders, and captains of industry from around the world to endorse strengthened cooperation for peacebuilding and interfaith collaboration.
Amb. Dr. Michael Jenkins, President of the Universal Peace Federation, was present at the ceremony and delivered remarks underscoring UPF’s commitment to uniting leaders across sectors to address global challenges.
He praised the new appointees for their demonstrated service and urged collaborative action to translate shared values into practical programs that uplift communities.
The Ambassadors for Peace initiative was launched in 2001 by the late Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon and his wife, Dr. Hak Ja Han.
The program recognizes individuals whose lives exemplify the ideal of “living for the sake of others,” honoring those who have dedicated themselves to reconciliation, service, and the common good.
The appointment recognizes Archbishop Kawas’s longstanding commitment to promoting reconciliation, community development, and interreligious dialogue.
In his new role, the Archbishop will join a global network of peace advocates tasked with advancing UPF’s mission to foster peace through diplomacy, education, and grassroots initiatives.
The ceremony featured keynote addresses from prominent UPF leaders and remarks by several dignitaries emphasizing the need for multilateral approaches to contemporary conflicts and social divisions.
Among those appointed alongside Archbishop Kawas were celebrated actors and entertainers, former and current government officials, senior clergy from multiple faith traditions, and business leaders who pledged to support peace-building programs and community empowerment projects.
Archbishop Kawas, speaking after the investiture, called for sustained partnership between faith communities, governments, and the private sector.
He said: “Peace is more than the absence of conflict; it is the presence of justice, dialogue, and hope.
“I accept this responsibility with humility and renewed determination to work for the common good.”
He also thanked the UPF for the honor and expressed appreciation for the many collaborators who have supported his peace and development efforts.
Organizers highlighted planned initiatives that the Ambassadors for Peace will support, including educational programs for youth, interfaith forums, and projects aimed at addressing poverty and social inequality.
The UPF stressed that appointing leaders from diverse sectors underscores the belief that sustainable peace requires participation from all parts of society.
The event concluded with calls for action and an affirmation of shared values, with attendees committing to translate words into concrete initiatives at national and community levels.
Archbishop Kawas and the other appointees are expected to participate in regional consultations and campaign activities over the coming months.
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