The Peace Project fosters mutual friendship and partnership among Muslims, Jews, Christians, Yazidis, Buddhists, and others, all under the same roof at the Peace Cathedral in Tbilisi, Georgia. They share the same address and a single entrance. Muslims gather in the Masjid As-Salaam (مسجد السلام,or the Peace Mosque), while Jews worship in the Beit Knesset Ha-Shalom (בית כנסת השלום), or the Peace Synagogue. Buddhists convene in the Temple of Peace (Śāntiḥ Vihāra शान्तिः विहार), while Christians assemble in their designated space within the Peace Cathedral.
Although these religious sanctuaries are not physically large, their united presence in one setting renders immeasurably their significance in promoting interfaith cooperation. One unique and important aspect is Muslims contribute solely to the construction of the synagogue, while Jews contribute only to the mosque. This reciprocal investment serves as a powerful testament to what the world could become, embodying a mutual spirit of partnership and love.
Peace Cathedral (in Geo.: მშვიდობის კათედრალი, in Gr. Ἡ Καθέδρα τῆς Εἰρήνης), founded in 1867, serves as a unique spiritual setting for religious minorities in Georgia, as well as a safe place for the LGBTQIA community, refugees from Ukraine, and Russians fleeing conflict. The Peace Project, led by Bishop Malkhaz Songulashvili, continues to evolve as new needs are identified and addressed. Despite facing extraordinary challenges in Georgia, it strongly fosters the belief that justice can triumph over power and beauty can prevail over ugliness.