On June 5th 2025, we had the profound honour of supporting in Brussels the Parents Circle – Families Forum (PCFF) in spreading their powerful message of reconciliation and hope. 

Together with Bassam Aramin and Rami Elhanan, two bereaved fathers and courageous peace advocates from the Forum, the day began with a gathering at the Quaker House in Brussels, hosted by the Quaker Council for European Affairs. Representatives from Brussels-based civil society organisations joined us for an exchange of ideas and perspectives, listening deeply to the voices of Bassam and Rami and the shared mission of the Parents Circle. 

Thanks to the kind coordination of Simone Susskind, member of the Actions in the Mediterranean, we were then privileged to accompany Bassam and Rami on a very special visit to His Majesty King Philippe of Belgium. The meeting was deeply heartfelt and impactful, a true moment of human connection and shared empathy. 

In the evening, we hosted an event at the Chapel for Europe entitled From Pain to Hope: Voices of Reconciliation in Israel and Palestine. Bassam and Rami’s presentation was followed by an open and engaging discussion with participants, reflecting the power of dialogue even in the most painful circumstances. The event also included a moving reflection and heartfelt blessing from Sister Wamuyu Teresia Wachira, co-president of Pax Christi International. She offered spiritual encouragement, reminding us to stay rooted in compassion and solidarity, and blessed Bassam and Rami with strength and support in their courageous work. In a moment of unity, we joined hands, connecting to the warmth of our hearts and to one another in a spirit of peace. 

We extend our warmest thanks to everyone who joined us throughout this remarkable day of meetings. A special thank you to the Quaker Council for European Affairs for their generous hospitality and ever-kind presence, and to the Chapel for Europe for welcoming us in such a thoughtful and inspiring space. It was a day of emotion, truth, and renewed belief in the possibility of peace. 

You can watch the full recording here.

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The Parents Circle – Families Forum was honoured with the Pax Christi International Peace Award in 2023. During their visit to Brussels, on June 4th, 2025, they also received the Paweł Adamowicz Award an award that celebrates courage and commitment to freedom, solidarity, and human rights.