Since its founding, IRO leaders and members often gather to lead inter-religious prayers at national and private occasions. As an expression of solidarity, members from each religion stand together, shoulder to shoulder, reciting prayers from their faiths. This has traditionally symbolised the role of IRO in promoting religious harmony in Singapore.
Led by veteran interfaith leader Mr Harbans Singh, the IRO Prayer & Blessings Group (PBG) has performed inter-religious prayers national, public and private ceremonies. Some the of historical occasions at which these prayers were performed include:
- 1959 celebration of self-government and National Loyalty week
- 1963 inauguration of the National Memorial for massacre victims during Japanese occupation
- 1983 inauguration of Singapore’s mass rapid transit (MRT) system
- 1978 memorial service for victims of accident on Greek oil tanker at Jurong shipyard
- 1998 memorial service for victims of the SilkAir crash
Inter-religious prayers are offered for humanity and peace in the face of natural disasters, conflicts and tragic accidents. The IRO serves Singapore in times of need and complements the compassion and sentiments of our people.