Watch One Light, Many Candles

One Light, Many Candles is a deeply moving documentary film that tells the story of an extraordinary event - the World Interfaith Harmony Assembly. Co-created by Grammy Award-winning musician and social activist N. Paul Stookey and his wife Betty, the assembly was held in 2010 under the auspices of the United Nations General Assembly. The three-day event brought together 200 spiritual leaders from different faiths and cultures, all united by the common goal of promoting peace and understanding among nations and religions.

The film opens with a breathtaking aerial shot of the United Nations building in New York City, followed by a succession of interviews with participants, including religious leaders from Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, and indigenous traditions. Through their stories, we learn about the journeys that brought these leaders to the assembly, and the personal and spiritual transformations they underwent in the process.

The heart of the film is the interfaith worship service that took place on the last day of the assembly, where participants from all faiths joined in prayer, meditation, and song. The service is a testament to the power of music and ritual to transcend cultural and linguistic barriers, as the leaders recite prayers in their native languages and join in singing the hymn "One Light, Many Candles," written by N. Paul Stookey specifically for the event.

The filmmakers skillfully balance the different voices and perspectives of the participants, creating a mosaic of insights and experiences that highlight both the commonalities and differences of the world's religions. We see Buddhist monks and Native American elders sharing stories about their respective traditions, Muslim imams and Jewish rabbis engaging in deep dialogue about their shared roots, and Christian pastors and Hindu swamis finding common ground in the quest for inner peace and harmony.

The cinematography is stunning, capturing the beauty of the United Nations headquarters, the diverse neighborhoods of New York City, and the natural landscapes of the retreat center where the assembly took place. The music is also a standout element of the film, featuring original compositions and performances by N. Paul Stookey, as well as songs from various traditions performed by the assembly participants.

Throughout the film, there is a sense of urgency and hope, as the leaders reflect on the challenges facing humanity today - war, poverty, environmental destruction, and religious extremism - and offer their visions for a better future. At its core, One Light, Many Candles is a powerful call to action, inviting viewers to join the movement for interfaith harmony and be part of a global community dedicated to peace and unity.

Overall, One Light, Many Candles is an inspiring and thought-provoking film that offers a rare glimpse into the world of interfaith dialogue and cooperation. Through its compelling storytelling, beautiful imagery, and moving music, the film cuts through the noise of divisive politics and media and reminds us of our shared humanity and interconnectedness. It is a must-see for anyone interested in spirituality, social justice, and global peace.