Concert For Peace At National Cathedral

The National Cathedral in Washington - home to so many momentous ceremonies over the years, including state funerals - was host to another kind of event Tuesday: an interfaith Pray for Peace service, followed by a Pray for Peace Concert.

Both were organized not so much in reaction to Iraq, but more to pray for an end to all wars, and also to honor the Dalai Lama, who has embraced non-violence throughout his some 50 years of exile from Tibet and is to receive a Congressional Gold Medal on Wednesday.

Several dozen monks were among the many musicians on hand for Tuesday night's prayers and song, delivering their prayers in the form of a chant, wearing headdresses and robes in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition.

Then came the headliners - bluesman Keb' Mo' and rockers Jackson Browne, David Crosby, Graham Nash, plus Emily Saliers of the Indigo Girls.

There were some unique Washington touches. John Hall, now a Democratic congressman from New York state but formerly a member of the band Orleans, reverted to his first career but not entirely - singing out strong, but wearing a conservative suit perhaps more befitting of an elected official.

Looking around the huge sanctuary before the concert, David Crosby acknowledged that it was an unusual venue for him.

"I have a lot of trouble with organized religions," said Crosby, in an interview with the Washington Post, adding that his faith has been renewed by Episcopal Bishop John Bryson Chane, who also happens to be a musician. "He's got real courage, to say war is not the answer. I feel comfortable here."

Nash was also reflective.

"These are desperate times, calling for desperate answers," Nash told the Post, noting that the first step to peace is dialogue, and that he is speaking out now on behalf of his children. "I'm 65 years old.... My time is passing."

Money raised at the concert is to be donated to the Cathedral Center for Global Justice and Reconciliation and the International Campaign for Tibet.