Greetings again from Melbourne! Today was the first of seven days of the Parliament of World Religions. Over the next week, I’ll be sharing my trip with you mostly through images - they often tell a story much better than words.

As it was only the first day, there were no workshops yet, and thus no learning to share with you. Tonight,  was an opening ceremony that featured song and dance from several religious communities represented at the conference. From Hindu to Buddhist, Christian to Muslim, Baha’i and many more, this event was as diverse as any I’ve seen. It was a very beautiful celebration of the arts, which ended with the ringing of peace bells.

 This is me, fresh off the train and crossing the Yarra River to get the the Melbourne Conference Center.

 Melbourne city landscape

 The walkways showcase lots of large artwork

Bernie sending a message outside conference 

In line to register

People gathering in the hallways

Tibetan monks preparing the conference space to house a mandala

 That’s all for today. Its 1am here, and I should be sleeping. I walked 10 miles today, all around the conference center and city. Perhaps I was inspired by the “Footprints for Peace’ folks I met yesterday? We’ll see if I can top that record tomorrow. Stay tuned!

Peace.