The BYM Peace and Social Concerns Committee invites everyone in the Baltimore Yearly Meeting community to join Friends in a silent vigil at the West Lawn of the US Capitol in Washington, DC, at noon, on Saturday, March 18, 2006. That weekend will mark three years of war in Iraq. This tragic war has so far resulted in the deaths of tens of thousands of Iraqi civilians, and over 2,200 US military personnel. Over 12,000 US military personnel have been physically wounded, and tens of thousands have been spiritually and emotionally devastated.

This vigil has been held each week for over three years, on or near the West Lawn of the US Capitol. It is not a demonstration, nor a protest, but a silent vigil for peace, in the manner of Friends. Though started by Quakers, it is now composed of people from many different faiths. It has been a rich experience for those who have attended. Often, visitors from the US or abroad have expressed their thanks to us for our simple act. Last year, at the time of the second anniversary of the war, over 500 people stood in silence for an hour on the Capitol Lawn.

This year, we would love to see thousands standing in silent witness for peace. Please mark your calendars now, and spread the word.

Do bring your neighbors, your friends, your family, and your hopes for peace. Do not bring any signs or banners. We stand under our simple blue banner, "Seek Peace and Pursue It."

If you have questions, please contact David Boynton, 703-368-3339, or Bill Mims, 703-281­7293, both of Langley Hill Monthly Meeting.