This day marks the anniversary of the entry into force in 1945 of the UN Charter. With the ratification of this founding document by the majority of its signatories, including the five permanent members of the Security Council, the United Nations officially came into being.
All the member states of the United Nations contribute finances to its operation to help further its goals. Aside from world peace, its role has grown to include protecting human rights, promoting social and economic development, and providing aid around the world in cases of famine, natural disaster and armed conflict
24 October has been celebrated as United Nations Day since 1948.
In a photo from 1947, children hold a copy of the Preamble to the Charter.
A Prayer for United Nations Day:
God of compassion, walk with all who work to create a more just and peaceful world. Equip the United Nations community with a sense of urgency and humility that lets your will be done.
Each day you give sufficient bread for all, grant us the wisdom and generosity to ensure that everyone has enough.Teach world leaders to forgive and to extend peace and welcome across borders. Show the people of all nations a new path beyond greed, oppression, and division.
We pray for a united world and for the courage to save our own and future generations from war. May the dignity and worth of every person be upheld so that all people will be able to live in freedom now and in the days to come. Amen.
More images of United Nations Day can be found at: http://www.un.org/apps/news/photostories_detail.asp?PsID=92