The World Peace Sanctuary is the international home and headquarters of May Peace Prevail On Earth International. The World Peace Sanctuary is nestled at the foot of the Berkshire Mountains, in the beautiful Harlem Valley scenic area of eastern Dutchess County - USA.
The Sanctuary occupies 154 acres in Wassaic, New York, located just two hours north of New York City.
Historically, the Sanctuary land was blessed by our Native American Ancestors. The Sanctuary grounds provided food and a fresh water supply from its natural spring. The story is that the Native Americans traveled from afar for these resources. History shows that the Schaghticoke and Mohican nation tribes occupied Wassaic and the surrounding villages at that time. The records indicate that the Mohicans and the early settlers got along well and peaceful exchanges were made.
The Sanctuary property was purchased in 1990 from the fourth generation of the Benton Family. The office building was renovated from a cow barn to an office, which now serves as the international headquarters of May Peace Prevail On Earth International, The Peace Pole Project and Peace Pals International.
The Kaminski Peace Gong greets you at the entrance to the office building. It was designed and crafted by world renowned, artist and sculptor, Hank Kaminski. Ask for a mallet to ring this gong and send the energy of your intentions for peace out into the world!
You are welcome to visit the Sanctuary to enjoy the various peace monuments and points of interest throughout the property. The Sanctuary is open year round -- Monday through Friday from 9 am - 5 pm.
Visit the ShopPeace Gift Shop inside the office building to enjoy a unique line of gift items bearing the Universal Message of Peace, May Peace Prevail On Earth.
The Sanctuary Grounds
The Peace Path, a slated and winding Path lined with Peace Poles on both sides, representing each of the 193 U.N. member nations in the world.
Each Peace Pole bears the Message in its native language. You will feel the presence of positive intentions put forth from the thousands of visitors who have walked on this majestic path. It is also a wonderful educational experience for adults and children alike. It creates an awareness and curiosity to learn more about the many countries and cultures that exist in the world.
The Peace Path ends and opens up at the Peace Field looking down into the valley. It is where the 'flags of all nations' fly high during the summer season sending the message May Peace Prevail On Earth to every corner on earth.
The Peace Labyrinth is a single path, seven circles wide, based on a design found on an ancient Cretan coin. It circles in one direction, then another, eventually leading you to the center, where you are encouraged to pause.
Sit, relax, reflect and experience the true meaning of May Peace Prevail On Earth.
The Sacred Grove is the beauty that surrounds the Sanctuary, which is enhanced by the century old Black Walnut Grove.
The black walnut trees on the property are the legacy of the Benton Family. Mr. Benton was just 5 years old when he planted the black walnut trees with his father. They have grown into what we refer to as our Sacred Grove. The Sacred Grove serves as a beautiful canopy for outdoor events.
You can find the Globe Sculpture across from the Earth Stage on the Peace Field, you will find an enormous and stunning metal sculpture of the World globe, designed and crafted by New York artist, Peter Woytuk. An exact replica of this sculpture can be found at the Mt. Fuji Sanctuary in Japan.
At a Glance
MISSION STATEMENT
The Power of Thought
Thought forms create an energetic field strong enough
to empower the course of planetary destiny.
The Power of Words
Words carry vibrations strong enough to inspire, heal and transform the human heart as well as the Kingdom of plants, animals and all creation.
The Power of May Peace Prevail On Earth
May Peace Prevail On Earth is an all inclusive message.
It is a meeting place of the heart, bringing together people of all faiths, backgrounds and cultures to embrace the Oneness of our planetary family.
Our Mission is Simple
To spread the Universal Message of Peace, May Peace Prevail On Earth, far and wide to embrace the lands and people of this Earth.