On April 7, 2001, Mennonite congregations and individuals are invited to come to Washington, D.C., for the third annual Hymn Sing for Peace. First Mennonite Church of Richmond, Virginia, is sponsoring this event in an attempt to provide a proactive and positive response to all violent conflict.

The spirit of this event is intended to be one of witness to the collective conscience of the government, to those watching, and to those participating that there are many creative ways to solve conflict rather than with violence. The message is that this is our way of best experiencing and demonstrating Peace, by singing hymns of praise to our God.

Everyone is invited to come and meet for singing in the Lafayette Park, immediately across the street from the White House. Singing will begin at 4 P.M. and end around 5:30 P.M. It will consist primarily of group singing of familiar hymns taken from the Hymnal: A Worship Book. The music will be provided. Leaflets will be be available for curious pedestrians, explaining our purpose and providing suggestions of how we as individuals and nations can promote peace around us. In addition, a letter will be written to the President explaining the purpose of the event. This letter will be available at the Hymn Sing for those attendees who would be interested in signing it.

As a result of the first year’s Hymn Sing, choirs from Eastern Mennonite University and Eastern Mennonite High School were invited to sing Christmas carols at the White House in December 1999. Last year’s event was attended by White House religious liaison, who accepted our letter to the President. This year, we will once again attempt to witness in some way to the White House.

Last year, approximately 200 persons attended in the rain. This year, we’re hoping for better weather and are looking forward to being joined by members of the Church of the Brethren and possibly from the Beachy Amish.

Participants are encouraged to stay and picnic together in the Mall area after the singing. For planning purposes, congregations and individuals are invited to RSVP with the numbers of expected participants to First Mennonite Church at (804)-359-1340.

Dave Powell, Coordinator

(804)-262-5748

E-mail at ecopow@erols.com