HOULTON – There were no noisemakers, glittering balls dropping from above or party favors, but a contingent of local residents still had a good time celebrating a “peaceful beginning” to 2006.

Sponsored by Pax Christi, a local ecumenical group, Peaceful Beginnings was the title of a fete attended by people of all ages on Sunday afternoon. The event, which was held at St. Mary’s Church, was intended to welcome the new year joyfully with others.

“Pax Christi groups all around the nation are having celebrations today in honor of World Peace Day,” said Mary Beth DiMarco, one of the event’s organizers. “This is the first time that we have ever done this, and we wanted to put on a fun event that would be geared toward people of all ages.”

As she spoke, a handful of attendees stood in a corner, dancing and clapping in time to a live band. Nearby, volunteers put last-minute touches on plates of food that had been prepared for the festivities.

Organizers expected more people to arrive throughout the afternoon to take part in finger painting, arts and crafts, square dancing and discussion groups.

Since 1967, the Roman Catholic Church has observed World Day of Peace on Jan. 1. A different theme is given to the event each year. Past themes have included working for a peaceful future and respecting human rights.

“In Truth, Peace” was the theme chosen by Pope Benedict XVI for this year’s celebration.

There are thousands of Pax Christi groups in the United States. The groups promote such values as non-violence, peacemaking, human rights and global restoration.

Although the celebration originated with the Catholic Church, Sunday’s activities in Houlton were open to people of all faiths.

“Anyone from any denomination can take part,” said Marilyn Roper, who watched as her husband, Harrison, played the violin for a crowd of dancers. “Everyone is welcome here.”