Archbishop Leonard Bature Kawas, founder of Harvest World Ministries, has been appointed an Ambassador for Peace by the Universal Peace Federation (UPF) in recognition of his sustained efforts in promoting reconciliation, community development and interfaith harmony. The honour was bestowed during a high-profile ceremony held in Washington, D.C., on 20 June 2026.
The President of the Universal Peace Federation, Ambassador Dr Michael Jenkins, attended the ceremony and reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to uniting leaders from different sectors to address global challenges.
He commended the newly appointed Ambassadors for Peace for their dedication to service and encouraged greater collaboration to transform shared values into practical initiatives that benefit communities.
The Ambassadors for Peace programme was established in 2001 by the late Rev. Dr Sun Myung Moon and Dr Hak Ja Han. It recognises individuals whose lives reflect the principle of “living for the sake of others” and honours those who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to reconciliation, service and the common good
Speaking after the investiture, Archbishop Kawas called for stronger partnerships among faith-based organisations, governments and the private sector.
“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 said.
He also expressed gratitude to the Universal Peace Federation for the recognition and thanked the many individuals and organisations that have supported his peace and development efforts over the years.
Archbishop Leonard Bature Kawas, in his new role, joins a global network of peace advocates working to advance UPF’s mission of promoting peace through diplomacy, education and grassroots initiatives.
The ceremony featured keynote speeches by senior UPF leaders and remarks from distinguished guests who stressed the importance of multilateral approaches to addressing contemporary conflicts and social divisions.
Also honoured during the event were renowned entertainers, current and former government officials, senior faith leaders and business executives, all of whom pledged support for peacebuilding and community empowerment initiatives.
Organisers highlighted a range of upcoming initiatives to be championed by the Ambassadors for Peace, including youth education programmes, interfaith forums and projects aimed at reducing poverty and social inequality.
The UPF noted that the inclusion of leaders from diverse sectors reflects its belief that sustainable peace can only be achieved through broad-based participation across society.
The ceremony concluded with a renewed commitment to collective action, as participants pledged to turn dialogue into meaningful programmes at national and community levels.
Archbishop Kawas and the other newly appointed Ambassadors for Peace are expected to participate in regional consultations and campaign activities in the months ahead.
The event brought together film stars, senior government officials, religious leaders and business executives from across the globe to promote stronger cooperation in peacebuilding and interfaith engagement.
