Call it a brooch of the peace.
Faith leaders and peaceniks passed out pins in the name of tranquility on 86th Street on Dec. 19. Volunteers from the Interfaith Peace Coalition gave out 100 pins emblazoned with doves holding olive branches — and inspired at least one local to think about how she could help spread the love.
“In today’s world, I think its a beautiful idea and something I would definitely be involved in,” said Vicky Almass, who recently moved into the neighborhood from Red Hook. “And it was freezing out there, so I think it was awesome they braved the cold for it.”
The dove holding an olive branch is an ancient symbol of peace with origins in the Old Testament. The do-gooders set up shop between Third and Fourth Avenues for an hour and asked passersby to pray for peace, no matter their faith or denomination, according to one volunteer.
The group has a wide set of interests and often holds vigils to commemorate historic events like the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., one member said.
“The idea is to come together with the idea of praying for among other things, nuclear withdrawal, awareness of the fighting around the world, and for our leaders to bring our soldiers home,” said Sister Pat Tobin of Our Lady of Angels.
