By: Betty Vedrine/BIS
President of the Federation of World Peace and Love (FOWPAL), Dr. Hong Tao-Tze, presented Governor General of The Bahamas, Her Excellency the Most Hon. Dame Cynthia A. Pratt, with a prestigious award in recognition of her lifelong dedication to promoting dignity, compassion, and devotion to people and country.
As part of the ceremony, Her Excellency was invited to ring the Bell of World Peace and Love, becoming the 668th bell ringer, and received a selection of commemorative gifts. The ceremony was held at Government House on Monday, January 19, 2026.
The Bahamas marks the 122nd country visited during FOWPAL’s global tour, which honours heads of state and distinguished community leaders who exemplify peace, integrity, and service to humanity.
In her remarks, Dame Cynthia Pratt described the recognition as a humbling experience. Quoting the late evangelist Myles Munroe, she stated, “If you want a brand new world, you have to have a brand new people,” noting that she has been on a lifelong mission to advance peace and love throughout The Bahamas.
President of FOWPAL, Dr. Hong Tao-Tze, emphasized that promoting love among humankind remains central to achieving world peace.
The event was held under the theme “Upholding Transparency and Integrity Through Conscience and Hope.”
Special guest in attendance was Mrs. Ann Marie Davis of the Office of the Spouse of the Prime Minister.
Other honourees were:
Bishop Delton Fernander – Bahamas Christian Council
Dr. Lorraine Bastian – Chancellor, Bahamas Foreign Service Institute
Dr. Anthony Hamilton – Civil Society
Rt. Hon. Bishop Walter Hanchell – Great Commission Ministries
Major Rudolph Meo – Salvation Army
Madam Justice Joyann Ferguson-Pratt – Community Work
Edison Sumner – President, Bahamas Red Cross Society
Recipients of the “Conscience Clock” awards included Spence Finlayson (radio talk show host), Jack Thompson (Secretary to the Governor General), Tim Kenny, Bishop Lawrence Rolle, and Julian Smith.
(BIS Photos/Patrick Hanna)
