FOWPAL Visits Antigua and Barbuda
Honoring the Past and Embracing the Future with Love and Peace
Renowned as a “Twin-Island Gem,” Antigua and Barbuda boasts over 300 pristine beaches and world-class sailing conditions, making it a dream destination for travelers worldwide. From July 19 to 21, 2025, the Federation warmly welcomed the Federation of World Peace and Love (FOWPAL), whose delegation visited the nation to promote the ideals of conscience, love, and peace. Antigua and Barbuda marked the 118th country visited on FOWPAL’s global goodwill journey.
The delegation began its visit at Devil’s Bridge, a natural limestone arch on the eastern Atlantic coast of Antigua. This historic landmark bears witness to a tragic chapter in history, where enslaved Africans, torn from their homelands, are believed to have ended their lives , facing the winds blowing in from Africa. In a solemn tribute, delegation members offered blessings through the songs A Prayer for Peace, The Angel in Your Heart, and Children from Heaven, honoring the souls of the past and praying for peace upon this land—may the survivors live in ease, and the departed rest in peace.
At the ruins of Betty's Hope, a historic sugar plantation, the delegation reflected on the immense suffering of enslaved laborers and the enduring legacy of colonialism. Through a moving performance of We Can Change the World, the delegation conveyed a powerful message: true change begins with awakening love and conscience within.
The visit continued to Shirley Heights, offering panoramic views of English and Falmouth Harbours, followed by a tour of Nelson's Dockyard—a former British Royal Navy base with over 200 years of history. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016, the dockyard stands as a testament to the Caribbean's rich maritime and cultural heritage.
FOWPAL also visited two local museums—the Dockyard Museum and the Museum of Antigua & Barbuda. Dr. Hong, Tao-Tze, president of FOWPAL, presented symbolic gifts of peace and hope, including a Compass Clock of Conscience, a Maxims of Conscience bookmark set, and keychains with the "Smile of Conscience" and Tai Ji Yuan, conveying heartfelt blessings. Young delegates expressed their sincere wishes through performances of The Power of Peace and Love and The Angel in Your Heart, deeply touching those in attendance.
Desire Batchelor, representative of the Nelson's Dockyard Museum, presented the delegation with a ceramic plate featuring the national flag, along with locally significant souvenirs—a “Three Hills” pin and a keychain. She expressed heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Hong and the delegation for bringing a powerful message of hope, love, and unity—values the world must strive to uphold every day.
At the Museum of Antigua & Barbuda, representative Dabbie Joseph beamed with joy as she gifted the delegation a tote bag bearing the national flag and three books highlighting the nation’s stories and historical landmarks. She expressed appreciation for the meaningful cultural and conscience-focused exchange. The national flag of Antigua and Barbuda holds profound symbolism: red represents the strength and resilience of its people; blue signifies the Caribbean Sea and hope; black honors African heritage; white stands for the island’s beaches; and the rising sun heralds the dawn of independence and a new era.
Dong Rong, an artist and member of the delegation, shared his impressions: “Although Antigua and Barbuda is a small nation, its people are sincere, and its land is rich and bountiful. People here are content, and therefore joyful; they live in peace, free from the threat of war. The concept of ‘conscience’ promoted by Dr. Hong is a universal value that the world needs now more than ever.”
The delegation was also graciously received at the Government House, where Hollie Sebastian, Senior Assistant Secretary and Protocol Officer of the Governor General, extended a warm welcome on behalf of the office. Dr. Hong introduced FOWPAL’s worldwide efforts to promote conscience, love, and peace in over 100 nations. He also presented a meaningful painting, The Grace of Benevolent Mists, symbolizing compassion and hope as essential elements for nurturing life on Earth.
During the visit, young delegates performed The Power of Peace and Love. Nathaniel-Messiah, Senior Assistant Secretary and Protocol Officer of the Governor General, was deeply moved and remarked that the song, sung from the heart, truly touched him.
With unwavering belief in conscience and a firm commitment to peace, FOWPAL continues its journey to its 119th country, sowing seeds of love and hope around the world.