This service at Coventry Cathedral was the first in a series of UK services planned for 2006-2007. Participants from all faith traditions prepared for the service through school and community workshops. The service incorporated the themes of celebration, dedication and hope and began with a procession of children, young people and adults in historical and national costumes. Children and young people from schools and local congregations expressed their thoughts and ideas about how to achieve non-violence, in dance, verse and in written messages and drawings.
During the service the Coventry Charter was signed by religious representatives of the Christian, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh, and Jewish communities as well as representatives from civil society and community organizations. They all pledged to work towards implementing the recommendations of the Study on Violence against Children.

Please click here to read the Coventry Charter, and click below to read the message from Prof. Paulo Sérgio Pinheiro to those gathered at Coventry Cathedral for the service on 14 October.