Posts in the ‘Stories’ Category

“Amidst increasing security issues in several African countries plagued by violence, political turmoil, religious intolerance and lack of democratic governance, churches are called to engage in peace-building”

King explains that while he opposes violent tension, he believes there is “a type of constructive, nonviolent tension… the need for nonviolent gadflies to create the kind of tension in society that will help men rise from the dark depths of prejudice and racism to the majestic heights of understanding and brotherhood.

(From UMR) William McElvaney – “Peacemakers are blessed because peacemaking at its best is theologically faithful to the core beliefs of all our religious traditions.”

“Finally an acknowledgement that, first, we [women] are the ones that bare the greatest brunt of all of the world’s conflicts.” – Leymah Gbowee

She saw only too clearly the fragility of peace, saying that peace needs to be nurtured as carefully as an egg. Dekha found deep fulfilment in enabling others to develop their full potential as leaders for peace and justice, never seeking the limelight for herself.

Kuany shared his story of destruction, survival and redemption with a packed auditorium at the World Methodist Council at the Lake Junaluska, (N.C.) Conference and Retreat Center.

In a culture of violence, what has to happen within the political, economic, social, educational and development agendas to engage and enable the reconciliation of communities and individuals? What are the things that make for peace?

Rev. Carol Windrum. a United Methodist pastor in Nebraska, won the People of Faith award for her commitment to peacemaking.

On this 2nd Anniversary of the international launching of The Charter for Compassion, it is exciting to report that in June, the Desert Southwest Conference of the United Methodist Church passed Commitment to Kindness – Living an Ethic of Reciprocity, Resolution.

United Methodist Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, president of Liberia, Liberian peace activist Leymah Gbowee and Tawakkul Karman of Yemen were awarded the 2011 Nobel Peace Prize for their work on women’s rights.