Montreal – Annual AFP Recognition Luncheon (April 18, 2026)
UPF Canada successfully hosted its annual Ambassadors for Peace Recognition Luncheon on April 18 at Ruby Foo’s Hotel in Montreal. The event, held under the inspiring theme “Interreligious Dialogue, Interculturality, and Secularity: A Contemporary Perspective,” gathered more than 70 prominent leaders from religious, community, academic, international, and political spheres.
Moderated by Chantale Viau and Brigitte Grenier, the program opened with UPF Canada President Dr. Franco Famularo presenting UPF’s vision of interdependence, mutual prosperity, and universal values. Montreal City Councilor Aref Salem offered warm greetings, followed by a thoughtful keynote address from Pierre LeBel on balanced secularity, active spirituality, and openness to others. Insightful responses were shared by Louise Royer of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Montreal and Robert Duffy, Secretary General of UPF Canada.
The afternoon was further enriched by a beautiful musical performance from Lebanese-Canadian artist Christa-Maria Abou Akl and powerful personal testimonies from Ambassadors for Peace Father Tiburtius Fernandez and Dr. Denitsa Tsvetkova, who emphasized the vital importance of encounter, reconciliation, and peacebuilding across differences.A highlight of the gathering was the commissioning of six new Ambassadors for Peace in recognition of their dedicated service and commitment to peace and cooperation. The program concluded with a shared meal and meaningful networking, strengthening existing partnerships and expanding the Ambassador for Peace network in Quebec.
The event beautifully embodied the spirit of the Peace Starts With Me Alliance by fostering interreligious dialogue, intercultural understanding, and a shared commitment to building One Family Under God.
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