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Dr. Hong, Tao-Tze, the grandmaster (leader) of Tai Ji Men, center, joins hand with numerous Silicon Valley mayors, vice mayors and distinguished guests from across the globe in a momentous ribbon-cutting ceremony for Tai Ji Men Qigong Academy in Santa Clara on October 8, 2023.

" Cultural Gems: Love & Prayers for the World " is a cultural showcase that offers a diverse presentation of qigong, martial arts, dance, singing, and traditional Chinese opera, complemented by modern technological sound and light effects, providing the audience with an awe-inspiring feast for the mind, body, and spirit.

Twelve declarations were issued to consolidate global citizens’ kind thoughts to protect the Earth.

Dr. Hong, Tao-Tze, the zhang-men-ren (leader) of Tai Ji Men, together with representatives from various religions and faiths, prayed for the Parliament, Chicago, and the world at the 2023 Parliament of the World’s Religions in Chicago. They wished for the promotion of world peace and everyone’s well-being, which is in line with the theme of the Parliament, “A Call to Conscience: Defending Freedom and Human Rights.” After 130 years, the Parliament returns to Chicago, the birthplace of the interfaith gathering.

Nitin Ajmera, chair of the Board of the Parliament of the World’s Religions, center left, is presented with the “Key to the Heart” by Dr. Hong, Tao-Tze, the leader of Tai Ji Men, after ringing the Bell of World Peace and Love. (AP Images)

The Host, Dr. Massimo Introvigne

Dr. Hong, Tao-Tze, the leader of Tai Ji Men, center, waves his hand at spectators during the Parade of Faiths. He has led Tai Ji Men dizi (disciples) to visit 101 nations to promote conscience, love, and peace through cultural exchanges. He was instrumental in the United Nations’ designation of April 5 as the International Day of Conscience.

Brandon Johnson, the mayor of Chicago, giving the opening remark

Additional sanctions were levied against Niger on Tuesday, hours after its military leaders rejected the latest diplomatic efforts by a joint delegation from West African states, the African Union and the United Nations.

Moscow Mayor Sergie Sobyanin said one of the aerial drones was shot down in the Domodedovo region south of the capital, which is home to one of Moscow’s busiest international airports, while the other was downed near the Minsk highway west of the city.