Report and pics by Jessie Rodrigues
Daijiworld Media Network - Bangalore (SP)
Bangalore, Jan 26: The Focolare Movement, which aims at unity and universal brotherhood, proposes the Gospel law of reciprocal love as the foundation on which to build relationships among all. They want to realize the prayer of Jesus, "May they all be one", undaunted by barriers. The members of the 'Teens for Unity' movement come from different nations and backgrounds and to not profess any religion or creed. The movement is spread over 182 countris with a membership of around 1, 50,000.
The first run4unity in 2005, patronized by the United Nations was held during the International Year for Sports and Physical Education. In all the different time zones teenagers of different ethnic groups, cultures and religions took part in this sports marathon running together across our planet forming a symbolic rainbow of peace all over the world. Run4Unity is being regularly held every year, and was also held in our country in 2006, 2007 and 2008.
This year Run4Unity took place from 8 am to 1 pm on Saturday January 24 at St Charles School, Bangalore and the event started with a mini marathon around the grounds. After the official opening and presentation by the Run4Unity team, various games and tournaments (Throwball, Basketball, Athletics and Telegames) were conducted and the event concluded with prize distribution and certificates of participation.
208 students from eight schools took part in the programme that started at 9 am. After the lighting of the Olympic torch and lighting of the lamp by principals of some schools along with the sports guest, ex-Olympicn Nisha Millet, oath was administered to participants.
The teens for unity then presented their Ideal and their goals, also with songs. There will be games and tournaments but they are more for creating relationships among the schools involved, they clarified.
Prizes and trophies were handed over. Every one was happy. The programme succeeded to create an imprint in the hearts and minds of those who came there, that unity and peace is possible, if every one works for unity, universal brotherhood and for building relationships.