Religious movement founded by Father Divine in the 1920s
The International Peace Mission movement is a religious movement that was founded and led by Father Divine. Father Divine was worshipped by his followers as a God. Thus, the core belief of the International Peace Mission Movement is that everyone is treated equal in the eyes of God. Father Divine preached against sexism and racism. He was most renowned during and following the Great Depression in the 1930s. Thus, the International Peace Mission movement is now known to be an important precursor of the Civil Rights Movement. The International Peace Mission movement emphasized its opposition to violence and war. Also the movement has a very strong focus on spiritual development through meditation and prayer.
The International Peace Mission movement is built on the principles of Christianity, democracy, Americanism, brotherhood, and Judaism with understanding that all religions teach the same basic truths. Members of the movement are taught not to discriminate race, color, or religion. The movement first started in Brooklyn, New York and then in Sayville, New York. Moving forward in 1942, the headquarters were relocated to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. During World War II, Father Divine organized rallies and prayer for his peace movement to oppose war. Today, the International Peace Mission movement still focuses on promoting the message of equality, peace, and social justice.
