The Carlisle Rotary Clubs—Carlisle, Sunrise, and Sunset—joined with the J. Sherwood McGinnis, Jr. War, Peace, and Justice Project (WPJP) this September to dedicate two Peace Poles in Carlisle. Each Peace Pole bears the inspiring message “May Peace Prevail on Earth” in multiple languages, serving as a visible reminder of our shared hope for peace, understanding, and unity.
Peace Poles Bring Carlisle Community Together
A Peace Pole at Dickinson College
On September 14, the Rotary Clubs and WPJP joined Dickinson College to dedicate a Peace Pole on campus, near the intersection of W. Louther and N. West Streets. The dedication took place on Dickinson’s Charter Day and brought together nearly 100 members of the college and local community.
Dickinson President John Jones noted that the message of the Peace Pole is especially meaningful because peace, understanding, and civic responsibility are woven into the very foundation of the college.
Following a brief program that included a special musical arrangement, guests placed commemorative stones along the pathway—each one symbolizing a personal commitment to global understanding and the hope for a more peaceful future.
A Memorial of Peace at Bosler Library
On September 21, the Rotary Clubs and WPJP gathered with Bosler Memorial Library to unveil a second Peace Pole and the new J. Sherwood McGinnis, Jr. Memorial Peace Patio outside the library on High Street.
The dedication coincided with the United Nations’ International Day of Peace and welcomed approximately 80 community members. Library Executive Director Jeff Swope shared that the Peace Pole and patio offer a meaningful place for the community to pause, reflect, and celebrate the enduring hope for peace.
Following the outdoor ceremony, guests gathered inside for refreshments and a conversation honoring the legacy of longtime Rotarian and Foreign Service Officer J. Sherwood McGinnis, Jr. Participants also painted rocks in his memory, celebrating his lifelong commitment to bringing peace to our community and our world.
A Lasting Message of Hope
Together, these two Peace Poles create lasting places of reflection and inspiration throughout Carlisle. More importantly, they represent what Rotary does best: bringing people together, building understanding, honoring service, and turning shared hopes into meaningful action.
May these Peace Poles continue to remind us all that peace begins with each of us—and grows stronger when we work together.