At our club's weekly meeting on November 6, April Sutor, president of the Rochester Rotary Risers club, will present a PEACE POLE commemorating our club's 100th anniversary. What is a Peace Pole you may ask?
A Peace Pole is a monument or obelisk that prominently displays the message "May Peace Prevail on Earth" (often translated into multiple languages on its sides) as a universal prayer or affirmation for global harmony. In the context of Rotary International, it serves as a key symbol and tool in their peace building and conflict prevention initiatives, one of Rotary's core areas of focus. Rotary clubs worldwide participate in the Peace Pole Project, which involves planting these poles in public spaces, schools, parks, or community centers to inspire dialogue, foster understanding, and promote lasting peace. These installations often include dedication ceremonies that bring together community members, emphasizing Rotary's commitment to advancing peace through grassroots actions. The project originated from the World Peace Prayer Society but has been widely adopted by Rotary, with thousands of poles planted globally as beacons of hope and reminders of shared humanity.Presenting a Peace Pole commemorating a Rotary club's 100th anniversary holds deep symbolic and communal significance, and is often presented by another club as a sign of respect and honor. It serves as a lasting monument to the club's century-long legacy of service, emphasizing a renewed commitment to fostering global harmony, multicultural understanding, and community unity in an enduring way.
We are grateful and honored to receive this very special recognition from our fellow Rotarians in the Risers club. I encourage all to attend this momentous event and to spread the news to former Rotarians, spouses, and guests.
Steve Sperling
2025-2026 President, The Rotary Club of Rochester