We are greeted by the morning sun and a new peace loving friend.
Today we visited Downriver YMCA and were welcomed by a big and enthusiastic crowd.
The World Harmony Run song brings dynamism into the early morning.
After performing the song actions, the kids share a moment of silence with us.
Mayor Joseph Kuspa and members of the city council attended the ceremony. Mayor Kuspa received the Torch Bearer Award for serving his community for many years. He has been a great and enthusiastic friend of the Peace Run for many years (since 2010).
Thank you to the Downriver YMCA for welcoming us with such enthusiasm sharing your inspiration with us.
Children held the Peace Torch and offered their wishes and prayers for peace. We will carry them with us on our journey thorough the States.
Mayor Kuspa donned his Peace Run t-shirt to join us. We are very happy to have our new teammate along for this stretch.
The kids show such joy in holding the torch. It is infectious, we are all inspired by their example
After this wonderful meeting, we are back on the road. Next stop Toledo....
This lovely family was happy to hold the Peace Torch.
As we entered the City of Toledo, we are greeted by a Sri Chinmoy Peace Tree, one of many such 'Peace Blossoms' all around the world. "Peace is the onward progress-stride of humanity". -Sri Chinmoy
Harita waters the Peace Tree.
We make our way to the next program of the day at the Monroe Street United Methodist Church.
We arrive at the United Methodist Church.
The team introduces themselves.
Pastor Joshua Wynn gives us a warm welcome. We are please to present Pastor Wynn with the Torch Bearer Award for his selfless community work and his work with underprivileged children in the Freedom School. Thank you Pastor Wynn for your selflessness and dedication to humanity.
The Torch Bearer Award was also presented to the Neighborhood Center. It has been a powerful aid to those with housing challenges on Bluff Street.
Two journalists from the local area wait for us at the entrance of the Boys and Girls Club in Toledo.
Children made some lovely artwork which they presented to the runners. Friendship unites us :)
Virangini introduces the Peace Run Team to the Boys & Girls Club of Toledo.
The country I'm coming from starts with letters L...A...T...
I think I know it!
Harita leads the children in an exercise to feel peace in the heart.
Peace begins with me.
Thank you to the Boys & Girls Club of Toledo for your enthusiastic participation in the Peace Run.
Everybody runs for peace with us.
The girls were eager to know when they can join the Peace Run team.
Virangini makes new friends :)
Everyone had the opportunity to hold the Torch and make a wish for peace.
Today we also met with Perrysburg Mayor Tom Mackin who kindly joined us at the Perrysburg Heights Community Center.
Thank you to the City of Perrysburg for participating in this year's Peace Run.
This Sri Chinmoy Peace Tree was planted in 2022.
Thank you to Bhaktiananda for coordinating today's wonderful events in Toledo. Many thanks also to Steve Kramer for sponsoring today's delicious meal. Last year he received the Torch Bearer Award for his selfless work in the community and continuous support of the Peace Run since the 90s.
Thank you to the Sisters of St. Francis convent located in Sylvania. They kindly sponsored our accommodation for two nights in this peaceful place. Your kindness and self giving help us to continue on our way.
