After a full day in the African sun, the cool of the Good Hope Center was refreshing. Director Jim Kenney presided over the opening. On hand were many on the Board of Directors of the Parliament. They represented many of the world’s great religions and offered their guidance and prayers for this to be a fruitful gathering.

Herman, a Native American from New Mexico, offered prayers from his Navajo tradition.

The Angels of God sang Nkosi Sikelel'iAfrica ("God Bless Africa"), South Africa's National Anthem.

With a strike of the drum, the Parliament officially commenced!