A silent Peace Walk to promote unity in the world and inner personal peace will take place at Mercyhurst on Feb. 22 at 7 p.m.

This is a monthly event held by the Benedictine Sisters, who will collaborate with the Sisters of Mercy this month by holding the walk here on campus. The procession will begin at the Mary Garden at 7 p.m. and is co-sponsored by Mercyhurst Campus Ministry.

Sister Natalie Rossi, part-time campus minister, helped organize the event.

“This is a walk open to everyone. One of the big pushes of the Sisters of Mercy as a critical concern is the promotion of nonviolence. The biggest way to reach that goal is through peace. Gathering people together to pray for peace each month has to have a positive impact on the world,” Rossi said.

The Benedictine Sisters began the tradition of Peace Walks in August 1999, and the events are now held monthly in different locations throughout Erie. Past locations have included Perry Square, Erie County Prison, local high schools and the pier.

In the past, the Sisters of Mercy have collaborated with the Benedictine Sisters and the Sisters of St. Joseph to create such events, including the Take Back the Site vigils. With Mercyhurst being chosen as the location for February, it is hoped that students, staff and faculty will get involved in this simple, silent action.

This idea is deemed especially important by the sisters in response to the escalating tensions and divisiveness present in our country and world. The walk is designed to promote 30 minutes of inner harmony that does away with fear, divisions and hatred, and brings about peace and unity in the world.

All are welcome to join this month, or attend next month’s walk at the Poetry Park on March 14.

Greg Baker, director of Campus Ministry, is excited that the peace walk will take place on campus.

“Our culture and our world are much too impatient, divisive and violent,” said Baker. “I am so glad that this event is happening at MU — a simple yet profound opportunity to tap into the depth, wisdom and peacefulness that silence can offer.”