This day is also known as the International Day of Pace or the International Day of Prayer for peace.
On 8 December 1967, Pope Paul VI established a new international day. Catholics call this day the World Day of Prayer for Peace. It is observed annually on the first day of a new year.
In 1969, on December 17, UN General Assembly proclaimed 1 January as the official International Day of peace.
Peace on Earth, easing tension in international and inter-state relations is the main theme of the annual pontiff’s messages to the believers. Total slogan of the World Day of Peace is: "Forgive and you shall have peace."