On Saturday October 22, a delegation of twenty-three International Association for Religious Freedom (IARF) members hailing from Japan visited the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) for the day. Leading the group on an East Coast tour was the former chairman of Rissho Kosei-kai, Rev. Norio Sakai, who presented gifts and greetings to President Rev. Peter Morales and Gini Courter, on behalf of the Association. The UUA Board of Trustees, in the midst of their annual meetings in Boston, also attended the jubilant gift exchange ceremony and introductions. After a tour of the UUA headquarters the group convened for lunch with ten American members of IARF, sharing stories and strengthening bonds of friendship as the afternoon progressed. One of the delegation members, a survivor of the Hiroshima atomic bombing, shared her traumatic story and message of peace as the group listened in quiet contemplation and gratitude. It was a very humbling and moving moment shared between all who were present. We were honored and grateful for the opportunity to welcome our guests from Japan and look forward to our continued partnership. Please enjoy some photos from the visit: