History of the Parliament

1893 Chicago

The Parliament of the World’s Religions was held for the first time as part of the Columbian Exhibition. This historic gathering is regarded as the beginning of the interfaith movement worldwide. One of the most inspiring and magnetic speakers was Swami Vivekananda, a young Hindu monk from India.

1993 Chicago

To celebrate the centenary of the first Parliament, eight thousand people from various faiths came together in Chicago for a second Parliament. Sri Chinmoy was chosen by the organisers to open the convocation with a few moments of silent meditation.

1999 Cape Town

The Parliament convened for the third time in South Africa with the aim of fostering harmony among the world’s religions.

2004 Barcelona The fourth Parliament of the World’s Religions in modern times was held as part of the Universal Forum of Cultures. Sri Chinmoy was once more invited to offer the opening silent prayer for the oneness of all religions, before an audience of seven thousand guests.

From:Sri Chinmoy,I bow to the soul of the Parliament of Religions, Agni Press, 2004
Sourced from https://srichinmoylibrary.com/bsp