The National Prayer Breakfast gathered hundreds of leaders and religious figures in Erbil to celebrate unity and spiritual harmony. The event welcomed more than 600 attendees from the Kurdistan Region and several countries, including the United States and European nations.
President Massoud Barzani joined top regional leaders and international guests to support interfaith dialogue and mutual respect. The gathering promoted cooperation between religious groups and emphasized shared values of tolerance, peace, and coexistence.
The theme, “Towards Unity in Faith,” guided all discussions and activities. It reflected a shared commitment to understanding across cultural and spiritual lines.
Participants praised the inclusive nature of the National Prayer Breakfast. They agreed that bringing together such a wide range of voices added depth and meaning to the conversations.
Nadine Maenza, former chair of the U.S. International Religious Freedom Commission, took part in the event. She expressed deep admiration for Kurdistan’s diversity and its history of peaceful coexistence.
She described Kurdistan as a place where different faiths live side by side with mutual respect. According to her, the National Prayer Breakfast offers a rare chance to focus on unity through spirituality.
Guests also visited symbolic religious landmarks across Erbil. They toured mosques, churches, and other sacred sites that represent the region’s religious mosaic.
During these visits, attendees reflected on the importance of freedom of belief. They emphasized the need to protect religious rights and promote peaceful dialogue.
The National Prayer Breakfast included moments of worship, speeches, and meaningful conversations. These sessions offered opportunities to strengthen interfaith relationships and promote reconciliation.
Many speakers highlighted the region’s example of tolerance and openness. They urged global leaders to follow a similar path of respect and cooperation.
The gathering served not only spiritual goals but also diplomatic ones. It allowed leaders to form personal connections that may foster future partnerships.
Attendees also participated in small side sessions for more focused dialogue. These meetings encouraged honest conversations about faith, politics, and cultural challenges.
Religious figures shared stories of resilience and forgiveness. They reminded others of the power of prayer, humility, and collaboration in overcoming division.
Leaders from the Middle East, Europe, the United States, and Iraq contributed to these discussions. Each speaker offered a unique perspective rooted in their faith and experience.
Throughout the event, the message of the National Prayer Breakfast remained clear: unity requires action, empathy, and shared purpose.
Organizers hoped this event would inspire similar initiatives in other regions. They believed that real change begins with genuine connection and respect.
By the end of the gathering, many participants had formed lasting bonds. They pledged to carry forward the values of compassion and unity in their own communities.
The National Prayer Breakfast proved that faith can be a powerful tool for building peace. It showed that even in times of uncertainty, spiritual unity offers a path toward common ground.
