In 2003, the second Gulf War broke out with the invasion of Iraq. An event that shakes the planet until Beauvais. “We had the feeling that peace could quickly be shatteredremembers Mayor Franck Pia. There was then the desire to create a inter-religious dialogue.» Also on the initiative of Caroline Cayeux, who was the mayor at that time, the Peace Garden.
A space in the Saint-Jean district where all religious communities come together to exchange ideas. Ten years later, this Friday, January 17, the agreement which links the city to the association which manages the garden was renewed. In the presence of representatives of different religions.
Cultivating peace between religions
“There is a real political issue behind this», recognizes Franck Pia for whom religious representatives are also a means of perceiving changes in society. “You and we all have common values. We must rely on these values and the peace garden participates in this», Defends the mayor.
“Our action is not at all vain or utopian», Adds Marikje Chaineaud, president of the Peace Garden. She protests against the few criticisms of the upkeep of the place: “It’s a real garden, not French style. We love him. There are 80 kinds of plants, permaculture. There is biodiversity with animals, a few rats it’s true…» «Yes, I heard about it», smiles Franck Pia.
“Everyone who wants to garden is welcome», continues the president. “We will continue our dream. I think it’s a beautiful story.» Opinion shared by the representatives of the various religions who came this Friday who also seem to strongly appreciate this Garden of Peace.
