Personally, I don't join the group, but I do feel good about working for a company with such a strong spiritual policy. The company's mission statement cites the importance of placing God first, families second, and the job third. The firm is open to members of all faiths. The procession will be part of the first worldwide celebration of the birthday of the Virgin Mary, which the Church celebrates on September 8. A prayer rally for peace will be held in New York in preparation for the new millennium in conjunction with the event.
Organizers hope to unite the whole world in prayer through television coverage of the event.
The flotilla will begin in Battery Park, under the shadow of the Statue of Liberty. The procession will involve some 30 barges, each representing a different nation and sponsored by the respective immigrant organizations. The regatta will sail through the East River, stopping in front of the United Nations, where the General Assembly will be convening. There, the parade participants will consecrate the United Nations to Our Lady of All Nations. The boats will then return to Battery Park for a colorful program of flags, songs and talks.