Author Archive

UMC.org has put together a special website (www.umc.org/911) to provide stories, worship resources, prayers, videos, and other useful links related to the upcoming 10th anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks on the U.S.

Any reporter thinking Bethke would allow herself the satisfaction of revenge would be disappointed. Her family’s loss because of 9/11 has not changed a lifelong commitment to peace…From the beginning, she has chosen reconciliation over retribution.

“On this, the occasion of the tenth anniversary of the tragedy of September 11, 2001,” Bishop Goodpaster said, “I call upon United Methodists and all people of faith to a renewed commitment to ministry of reconciliation

Charlie Roberts said in a suicide note that he hated God after the death of his first child. Faced with similar suffering…his mother has taken the opposite path. Her son cursed God; she trusts in prayer. Her son acted out his rage; she reaches out for reconciliation.

Today, unfortunately, we’re quick to leave and go find another church or let our theology divide us. That’s what’s different today about reconciliation. We’re trying to reconcile the church today; in the first century, the church was reconciling the world.

The faith I embrace and the nonviolent conflict transformation I commit to professionally rise from the life and teachings of Jesus, who measures love in the paradoxical quality of how we respond to those who wish us harm.

The concept of restorative justice means giving back to the community you’ve hurt. Some prisoners have found a way to support children who have even less than they do. And volunteers believe this program will help inmates feel pride and avoid a return to prison.

On the 10th anniversary of 9/11, Link TV is devoted an entire day of special programming showcasing stories of forgiveness, growth and transformation including Beyond Belief and In Our Son’s Name.

Craig Gilliam facilitates an event in Louisiana. “The Choice in Conflict Transformation: How do we as leaders help our congregations move through conflict in a positive, mature way?” December 5-7, 2011

In wartime, not only remote villages but peace itself seems completely out of reach. Jesus’ call to “love our enemies” seems difficult to conceive, let alone practice. Yet there are countless stories from family and friends about how Dan kept reaching out.