Of course, it was the dog that first made me notice. The loyal companion with a heart on his forehead named Aloka (Āloka). He was once a stray dog wandering in India who began following the Venerable monks in India and then coming to America for the 2300-mile peace walk across the country. With the turmoil in our world, I was drawn to following their journey of spreading peace through unwavering commitment, strength, healing, and quiet presence. I needed this story and journey.
If you haven’t heard about the walk,19 Venerable monks walked from Texas to Washington, DC in 108 days. They walked 20 miles a day, mostly in a single line and often barefoot. A "venerable monk" is a title of high respect bestowed upon Buddhist monks (and sometimes nuns or Christian figures) known for their deep wisdom, virtue, and long-term commitment to spiritual practice. The term highlights their esteemed status, moral integrity, and role as dedicated guides in monastic life.
I needed to see the scenes of people gathering to welcome them with quiet gestures of peace, flowers, waves of joy, and tearful acknowledgement of their humble presence. The walk has been a reminder for me of the unwavering peace that the Holy Spirit weaves in our lives if we allow it to work in our hearts. Jesus promises us a divine, eternal, and inner peace in the midst of life’s storms, offering, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not let them be afraid” (John 14:27). I am holding fast to these truths.
Episcopal Bishop Mariann Budde, who helped the monks host an interfaith reception at the end of their walk, said, “Their long journey and gentle witness invite us all to deepen our commitment to compassion.” How can we carry peace in our footsteps and spread compassion to all those we encounter as a witness to God’s love? In a world where division is so prevalent, how beautiful that a multitude of faiths can come together in the name of peace and community.
Traveling beside the monks, always quietly teaching without words, was Aloka. Through his gentle presence, people learned that healing doesn’t always speak. Sometimes it sits or walks beside you, reminding you of love and peace. God is our ever-present comfort and guide on our journey. Like the meaning of Aloka (illumination, and positive energy), our heavenly Father brings vision and clarity to light our way.
In gratitude,
Angie Seiller, Director of Faith Formation