A second manifestation of George Nakashima's dream to make Peace Altars for each of the continents of the world has been completed and will become the centerpiece for the 50th anniversary of the United Nations at services September 24 and October 21 and 22 at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York.

Made from planks of the same monumental Black Walnut tree as the original Peace Altar, it measures approximately 10.5 feet by 10.5 feet and weighs nearly half a ton.

Make in New Hope under the design direction of his daughter, Mira Nakashima-Yarnall, and constructed by craftsmen trained under George Nakashima, the table will be housed near the first Peace Altar at the Cathedral until all necessary funding and other preparations are completed to send it to a final destination in Moscow, Russia or Auroville, India.

In the words of Honorary Chairman James Parks Morton, dean of the cathedral and president of the Temple of Understanding, the table "is truly one of the most important symbols ever created of the necessary and essential commitment to universal peace. A Work of art, working altar consecrated to peace and, within this great cathedral, a gathering place for people of all faiths and persuasions, from every part of the globe, who believe, ..that God's Creation must receive from all those who dwell here, nothing less than a total commitment to diversity, respect and humanity among nations and individuals, to protecting the global environment, and to achieving universal peace."

Parker said, "Specific celebrations will be held at the cathedral, ..featuring major secular, political and religious leaders, who are journeying to New York for the UN anniversary, as well as ecumenical prayer, service, and celebratory words and music.

"Dedication and song and prayer will welcome the altar to St. John the Divine and will prepare its way to be sent to its final destination in Russia [or India]."

Chairperson of the Russia project is Irene Goldman, of the India project, Julian Lines.

Widow Marion and son Kevin Nakashima join Mira in the continuation of work at the Nakashima Studio in New Hope.

Tax-deductible donations will be gratefully accepted by the foundation Altar for Peace, 93 Aquetong Road, New Hope 18938.