Peace Arch: Symbol of Unity

oised above the international boundary of Canada and the United States, the Peace Arch stands between Blaine, Washington, and Surrey, British Columbia. It represents the longest undefended boundary in the world. It literally straddles the Canadian/U.S. border with one side on Canadian soil, the other on American.

The American side of the Peace Arch is inscribed with the words CHILDREN OF A COMMON MOTHER; the Canadian side with BRETHREN DWELLING TOGETHER IN UNITY. Within the portal of the arch on the west side are the words 1814 OPEN ONE HUNDRED YEARS 1914; and on the east side, MAY THESE GATES NEVER BE CLOSED.

Excerpts from the official Peace Arch Web site provide us with a little history:

Each year the Peace Arch is the scene for a celebration called "Hands Across the Border."

"The Arch was constructed to commemorate the centennial (1814-1914) of the signing of the Treaty of Ghent on December 24, 1814. The Treaty of Ghent ended the war of 1812 between the United States and Great Britain, a conflict that was waged in North America and involved Canadians, as well as Americans and British.

"Standing 67 feet high, the Peace Arch is made of concrete and reinforced steel. Its foundation consists of 76 fourteen-inch pilings driven 25-30 feet into the earth. The Arch was said to be one of the first structures in North America constructed to be earthquake-proof.

"The 3500 sacks of concrete for the Arch's foot walls were donated by R.P. Butchart, of Victoria, British Columbia's Butchart Garden's fame; and 50 tons of steel were donated by E.H. Gary of New York...

"Two bronze plaques are placed above the exterior foot walls of the Arch. One is of the Canadian steamship the Beaver; the other of the Mayflower. Wooden relics, allegedly cut from each ship, were sealed behind each plaque when the Arch was dedicated in 1921...

"The International Peace Arch is one of the few landmarks in the world listed on the National Historic Registries of two different countries.

"The history of the Peace Arch reflects more than our past; its existence gives meaning to our present. As the world moves further into the twenty-first century the Peace Arch is a beacon of hope for our future" (http://www.peacearchpark.org/history.htm).

Each year the Peace Arch is the scene for a celebration called "Hands Across the Border," which observes the anniversary of the dedication of the international monument. The event takes place the second Sunday in June; hosting alternates between the United States and Canada.

Participants traditionally include adult military veterans, law enforcement (including Canadian Mounties in full regalia, available for photo opportunities), and youth organizations from both countries. Girl and Boy Scouts of America, Campfire USA, Explorers, Girl Guides and Scouts Canada all join in. Annual attendance ranges from 13,000 to 20,000, most of which are youth.

The annual event provides opportunity for young participants to trade flags, pins and souvenirs representing their countries and groups, while meeting their counterparts from across the border, in an activity, which fosters international cooperation and understanding.

Imagine what this world would be like without war and pain.

If only the nations around the world could have the same attitude towards each other. Imagine what this world would be like without war and pain! As Christians, we know the day will come when we will finally live in peace. Soon after Christ's return, we will find our troubles are behind us. Psalm 72:7 reads, "In His days the righteous shall flourish; and abundance of peace, until the moon is no more."

The symbolism of the Peace Arch can be summed up with a portion of the lyrics from the song "Children of a Common Mother" written by U.S. recording artist Christina Alexander:

Standing tall
There for all
A symbol of freedom peace and harmony
Our fathers eyes saw troubled times
So, they built a reminder
For all the world to see

A sign of hope
From sea to sea
It binds together two countries that are free
Let's not forget our precious debt
For the gift of knowing what it means to be

Canadians and Americans are free
To show the world our strong diversity
Dwelling in unity
Canadians and Americans are free

Children of a common mother
We are sisters we are brothers
Children of a common mother
We are sisters we are brothers
Children of a common mother
Sisters, brothers it's all about you
Sisters, brothers it's all about you
Sisters, brothers it's all about you and me