Swords into plowshares
About this blog
Swords into Plowshares is the blog of the Peacemaking Program and the Presbyterian Ministry at the United Nations of the Presbyterian Mission Agency of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.).
Seeking peace. Striving for justice. Together.
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Posts with tag: peace
May 1, 2013Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) Asks for Prayers to End Violence in South Sudan
from our partners in World Mission
The crisis in South Sudan’s Jonglei State has escalated alarmingly in recent weeks. The deteriorating situation has prompted the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) to express deepening concern for the people of the region and to renew its urgent call to prayer and action to promote justice, peace and genuine security for the affected populations.
Since the beginning of 2013 the government of South Sudan’s campaign to disarm rebel forces led by David Yau Yau has triggered a growing number of clashes between the South Sudanese military (SPLA) and Yau Yau’s ...
April 22, 2013
Advocacy Alert CORRECTION AND UPDATE: El Tamarindo, Colombia
An update from our partners in the Presbyterian Peace Fellowship:
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Friends, Thank you to the many of you who have already begun reaching out in response to our urgent action this Saturday. We wanted to provide A CORRECTED E-MAIL ADDRESS and a few critical updates based on some of the feedback we have received and some of the communications we have already seen some write: 1) The email to the State Department as given was incorrect. It is: WHAColombiaDeskOfficers@state.gov (That’s ColOmbia, not ColUmbia. We can’t believe we passed on the wrong version!) 2) Please remember in ... |
April 22, 2013
Urgent Action Requested from our partners in ministry of the Iglesia Presbiteriana de Colombia: Justice for murdered land rights defender and his community
Our partners in the Presbyterian Peace Fellowship have asked that we share the information below from our partners in ministry of the Iglesia Presbiteriana de Colombia.
Yesterday we received an urgent communication from the Rev. Jaira Barriga of the Presbytery of the North Coast in Colombia concerning the murder on April 12, 2013, of a young man, Narcisco Enrique Teheran Mejia. His murder followed a series of death threats and paramilitary operations in an area called El Tamarindo in the municipality of Galapa, near the city of Barranquilla. Mr. Teheran was the son of a land restitution activist and was ...
February 1, 2013
Prayer for the people of South Sudan
God of grace,
God of justice,
God of peace,
you create us to live together,
to honor and respect one another.
Hear us as we pray for South Sudan.
We pray for the people of South Sudan.
Grant courage to turn from violence;
grace to see each other as sisters and brothers;
strength to work for justice for all;
passion to seek peace;
and all that is needed for the living of these days.
We pray for the leaders of South Sudan.
Grant vision for a just and peace country;
wisdom to govern wisely;
strength to work for justice for ...
December 14, 2012
With Thanks to God for the Life and Witness of Cindy Bolbach
Ruling Elder Cindy Bolbach, Moderator of the 119th General Assembly
I believe we are living through a hinge time for the PC(USA). A hinge time of hope, excitement, and anxiety, all mixed together. A hinge time when we are realizing that the denominational structure and organization that we built in the 1950s and 1960s might not be the organizational structure we need for an age that some are calling not just post-denominational but post-Christian.
As the PC(USA), we still inhabit a top-down, corporate structure that worked well 50 and 60 years ago, when we were flush with members and with resources. We are no longer flush with members or with resources. That does not mean, by the way, that I believe us to be deathly ill. I believe that health of any Christian community of faith is measured not by the number of its members, or by how deep its financial pockets are, but by whether it is proclaiming the Gospel authentically.
November 26, 2012
International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People - 29 November
The International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People is observed by the United Nations on or around 29 November each year, in accordance with mandates given by the UN General Assembly in its resolutions 32/40 B of 2 December 1977, 34/65 D of 12 December 1979, and subsequent resolutions adopted by the UN General Assembly on the question of Palestine.
The Question of Palestine at the United Nations
The United Nations, Israel and Palestine - an overview
Presbyterians at work in Palestine and Israel
What has the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) General Assembly said about Israel and ...
October 1, 2012
Presbyterian engagement at the United Nations General Assembly
Last week, New York City welcomed world leaders to the 67th United Nations General Assembly. The Presbyterian Ministry at the United Nations was active in raising the voice of Presbyterians from here in the United States as well as those of our partners in the World Communion of Reformed Churches.
- Worshiped with world leaders at the opening prayer service for the United Nations General Assembly.
- Empowering Youth dialogue with the President Lobo of Honduras and the Mission of the Holy See to the United Nations.
- Official NGO observer to the General Debate with heads of state or government.
- Met ...
September 25, 2012
President Obama addresses the UN General Assembly
President Obama and other world leaders are in town this week for the 67th United Nations General Assembly. I had the opportunity to join the President and others in the opening of the General Debate this morning. Below is President Obama's speech.
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
Remarks by the President to the UN General Assembly
United Nations Headquarters
New York, New York
10:22 A.M. EDT
THE PRESIDENT: Mr. President, Mr. Secretary General, fellow delegates, ladies and gentleman: I would like to begin today by telling you about an American named Chris Stevens.
Chris ...
September 21, 2012
The Culture of Peace
Below is a reflection on the International Day of Peace by Rochelle Rawls-Shaw, intern at the Presbyterian Ministry at the United Nations.
I read on a card I picked up at the United Nations, “Everything that is needed to build a culture of peace already exists in each of us.” The UN defines a Culture of Peace as a set of values, attitudes, modes of behavior and ways of life that reject violence and prevent conflicts by tackling their root causes to solve problems through dialogue and negotiation among individuals, groups, communities and nations.
The Presbyterian Book of Common worship ...
August 30, 2012
The world is over-armed and peace is under-funded
Below is an op-ed from United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon. Here, he states, "Massive military spending and new investments in modernizing nuclear weapons have left the world over-armed -- and peace under-funded."August 11, 2012
Celebrate the 2012 International Day of Peace
The United Nations has set September 21 as the International Day of Peace. This day provides an opportunity for individuals, organizations and nations to create practical acts of peace on a shared date. It was established by a United Nations resolution in 1981 to coincide with the opening of the General Assembly. The focus for 2012 is Sustainable Peace for a Sustainable Future.
Here are some ways to celebrate the International Day of Peace on September 21 or Sunday, September 23 or at some other time:
Observe a Minute of Silence at Noon in your time zone
Ring your church ...
August 11, 2012
Inernational Day of Peace: Sustainable Peace for a Sustainable Future
From the United Nations:
Each year the International Day of Peace is observed around the world on 21 September. The United Nations General Assembly has declared this as a day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, both within and among all nations and peoples.
Sustainable Peace...
This year, world leaders, together with civil society, local authorities and the private sector, will be meeting in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil for the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development to renew political commitment to long term sustainable development.
It is in the context of the Rio+20 Conference that “Sustainable Peace for ...
August 6, 2012
Call to prayer on the International Day of Peace
The World Council of Churches calls churches and congregations around the world to prayer on the International Day of Peace: 21 September. Participants are especially invited to pray and act together for a just peace in communities, nations and the world.
Prayers from different parts of the world will be shared through online means, including Facebook and Twitter. People who are not active on these social media platforms may share their prayers by email.
Prayers for a just peace lift up social, economic, ecological or political-military aspects of peace.
The prayers for peace last year circled the globe from Cuba ...
August 1, 2012
Building bridges
by Johnstuart Winchell
The Presbyterian Ministry at the United Nations hosted a seminar on 31 July intended to build bridges of understanding and awareness. Attending were young people from The House of Hope Presbyterian Church of St. Paul, Minnesota as well as young Arab Israelis and Jewish Israelis brought together by Givat Haviva, an Israeli educational center that educates for peace, democracy, coexistence and understanding between Jewish and Arab Israelis. The groups spent the day getting to know each other by sharing life stories, cultural dances, and reflections on what it may take to create peace within individuals and between ...
July 21, 2012
A Prayer Following the Massacre in Aurora, Colorado
Use this prayer as a personal or corporate prayer in the days to come:
O Lord, our God, victim of violence on a cross,
look with compassion upon all involved in the shooting this week in Colorado.
Comfort those terrorized by this horrendous event.
Wrap your Everlasting Arms around those who mourn.
Heal those whose wounds ooze in open fear.
Strengthen those administering your medicines of blessing—
medical personnel, law enforcement officials, and associated staff.
Calm all whose memories of violence are triggered by this shooting.
Clothe the gunman with your redemption,
and deal tenderly with his confused family and ...
June 21, 2012
War and peace in Afghanistan
The 219th General Assembly (2010) of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) approved an overture “On the War in Afghanistan.”
Through this overture, the General Assembly directed that “materials appropriate for studying the effects of the present war in Afghanistan and of non-combative actions the United States might take in pursuit of the region’s stability, prosperity, and peace” should be made available to presbyteries and congregations. Such materials and resources include:
- Afghanistan - Friends Committee on National Legislation
- Afghanistan – United States Institute for Peace
- Afghanistan & Pakistan Peace Process – 3P Security
- Afghanistan Peace and Reintegration Program – International Security Assistance Force ...
April 23, 2012
World Week of Prayer for Peace in Palestine and Israel 2012
28 May - 3 June 2012
Pray, educate, and advocate for justice
The Palestine Israel Ecumenical Forum (PIEF) of the World Council of Churches invites member churches, faith-based communities, and civil society organizations to join together in 2012 for a week of advocacy and action in support of an end to the illegal occupation of Palestine and a just peace for all in Palestine and Israel. Congregations and individuals around the globe who share the hope of justice shall unite during the week to take peaceful actions, together, to create a common international public witness.
During World Week for Peace 2012 ...
April 11, 2012
A prayer for peace as the Quartet meets
From Churches for a Middle East Peace:
In late April the United Nations Security Council is scheduled to hold its quarterly open debate on the Middle East. The focus of discussion will likely be whether the Quartet—comprised of the European Union, Russia, the United Nations and the United States—has been able to achieve sufficient impetus to have the Israeli-Palestinian peace process move in a positive direction. In preparation for that discussion the Quartet meets today in Washington, DC.
As people of faith, on this occasion we ask you to pray for peace and for God to make a ...
March 13, 2012
UN Security Council Gravely Concerned at Cross-Border Violence between Sudan, South Sudan
From a March 6, 2012 press release by the UN Security Council:
Gravely concerned by reports of violent cross-border clashes between Sudan and South Sudan, the Security Council today demanded that all parties, including proxy forces, cease all military operations in the border areas and put an end to the cycle of violence.
Through a wide-ranging statement read out by its President, Mark Lyall Grant (United Kingdom), the Council, concerned about reported “troop movements, support to proxy forces, and aerial bombardments”, strongly urged the Governments of Sudan and South Sudan to reach agreement on the status of disputed border areas ...
February 15, 2012
Security Council issues statement on Sudan
The President of the United Nations Security Council, Ambassador Kodjo Menan of Togo released the following statement from the Security Council yesterday:
The members of the Security Council expressed their deep and growing alarm with the rising levels of malnutrition and food insecurity in some areas of Southern Kordofan and Blue Nile States in Sudan, which could reach emergency levels if not immediately addressed, and with the lack of access for international humanitarian personnel to conduct an assessment of the situation and deliver urgently needed assistance.
The members of the Security Council called upon the Government of Sudan to allow ...
January 4, 2012
Prayer requests from Jonglei State
Our partners in the Presbyterian Church of Sudan and the Sudan Council of Churches have made the following specific prayer requests:
- Roda Ading and her daughter were abducted. Roda was later released without her daughter. Roda is a member of Presbyterian Church of Sudan Women’s Association. Please pray for her release as well as the release of others who have been abducted and an end to the violence.
- Please pray for our pastors: Rev. William Atiel, Rev. John Kiziwoz, Rev. John Giro, Rev. David Ngachamor and his wife and Rev. John Tubuwa Golomo. All of them are still missing ...
November 29, 2011
International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People is celebrated
Today, the United Nations celebrated the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People. I was struck with the importance of this day, having returned just last week from meetings with our church partners in Israel and Palestine.
The International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1977. Today, UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon said, "Let us, on this International Day, reaffirm our commitment to translating solidarity into positive action. The international community must help steer the situation towards a historic peace agreement."
On this day of solidarity, we remember the ...
November 27, 2011
Elections in the DRC
Hold the people of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in prayer as they go to the polls tomorrow to participate in presidential and parliamentary elections.
The political landscape in Congo is complex and unsettling. Please pray with us for the November 28th elections. Pray that God would appoint righteous leaders who will honor God and truly care for the needs of the people.
So writes Bob Rice, Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) mission co-worker in the DRC. His article also contains a review of the DRC's history.
The UN News Centre reports that UN Secretary General Ban ...
November 14, 2011
Standing in solidarity with the people of Madagascar
Presbyterians have a long history of partnership with the Church of Jesus Christ in Madagascar (FJKM). The Presbyterian Ministry at the United Nations recently sponsored an event with the Rev. Hubert Rakotoarivony, International Peacemaker from Madagscar and Dan Turk, PC(USA) mission co-worker in Madagascar. They focused on the witness of the FJKM.
The violence and intimidation that the church and the people of Madagascar have suffered over the past two years at the hands of Madagascar’s illegal regime have deeply concerned Presbyterians. Increases in hunger, human trafficking, and environmental exploitation during that period are also matters of concern ...
November 11, 2011
Women, War & Peace film series
Written by Grace Bickers
As a human rights student at Columbia University, I’ve been thoroughly enjoying the opportunity to volunteer with the Presbyterian Ministry at the United Nations this fall. My particular interests concern international education and development after times of conflict, and I was excited to attend a film screening and panel discussion last week at the United States Mission concerning the role of women in war.
Women, War & Peace is series of five documentaries produced and broadcast by PBS that shares the stories of women living in conflict zones all over the world. The main purpose of ...
October 9, 2011
A prayer for the United Nations
God of compassion, walk alongside all of your global stewards 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 bread enough for all, grant us also the wisdom to ensure that everyone has enough. Teach the world’s leaders to forgive, to extend welcome across borders. Show the world a new path beyond greed, oppression, and division. We pray for a world united. We pray for the power to save succeeding generations from war. We pray for ...
September 26, 2011
The Witness of the Church in Madagascar
Forgiveness means liberation.
Forgiveness means restitution and repairing.
Forgiveness means reconciliation.
The Rev. Hubert Rakotoarivony, International Peacemaker from Madagascar, reflected on the importance of forgiveness as he spoke to a group of 18 people from 9 congregations.
Hubert, along with Dan Turk, PC(USA) mission co-worker in Madagascar, addressed the witness of the church in Madagascar.
Hubert spoke of the work toward peacemaking and reconciliation of the Church of Jesus Christ in Madagascar (FJKM). This begins with an awareness that peace is not just the absence of war or conflict. Peace is active. Peace involves social justice, equity, dignity, non-discrimination ...
September 22, 2011
Welcome to the 2011 International Peacemakers
From left to right: Mazen Asaqa (Iraq), Sunil Mankhin (Bangladesh), David Thomas (Mexico mission co-worker), Brenda Trinidad Espitia (Mexico), Karla Ann Koll (Guatemala mission co-worker), Marina Shishova (Russia), Juana Herlinda Yac Salanic (Guatemala), Emad Ramzy Philobbos (Egypt), Arda Aghazarian (Israel/Palestine), Neerja Prasad (India), Dan Turk (Madagascar mission co-worker), Peter Tibi (South Sudan), and Hubert Rakotoarivony (Madagascar).
September 20, 2011
September 21 is International Day of Peace
The International Day of Peace ("Peace Day") is on Wednesday. It is an opportunity " for individuals, organizations and nations to create practical acts of peace on a shared date." It is a day devoted to commemorating and strengthening the ideals of peace within and among all people.
Since its inception in 1982, Peace Day has been a marker of the progress we make toward peace. It includes millions of people in all parts of the world, and each year there are events to commemorate and celebrate this day. They may be small, private gatherings or public concerts and forums. Use ...
September 14, 2011
Jerusalem Christian Churches issue communique
Looking ahead to the upcoming General Assembly of the United Nations this September 2011 and the bid for Palestinian statehood, the Heads of Christian Churches in Jerusalem feel the need to intensify our prayers and diplomatic efforts for peace between Palestinians and Israelis, to consider this as the most appropriate time for such an opportunity, and thus wish to reiterate the following principles upon which we agree:
- A two-state solution serves the cause of peace and justice.
- Israelis and Palestinians must live each in their own independent states with peace and justice, respecting human rights according to international law.
- Negotiations ...
September 7, 2011
Let anniversary of September 11 attacks lead to peace and healing says WCRC
World Communion of Reformed Churches
News Release
07 September 2011
Let the tenth anniversary of attacks on sites in the United States mark a time both of remembrance and of renewed commitment to peace, says a global organization of Protestant churches. The World Communion of Reformed Churches (WCRC) based in Geneva, Switzerland, is inviting its 230 member churches worldwide to join in prayers for those who lost loved ones in attacks on the World Trade Center in New York and the Pentagon in Washington on 11 September, 2001.
The president of the World Communion of Reformed Churches (WCRC) Jerry Pillay ...
September 6, 2011
Prayers of hope and remembrance
What do people write on Ribbons of Hope for the 10th Anniversary of September 11, 2001?
During the Thursday, August 25, 2011 worship service at the Church Center for the United Nations, participants wrote the following prayers:
All of God’s people to rise up heal, help, hope and care.
May this time of remembering be a “Grand Happening.”
Oh God. Make us an instrument of thy peace! Shalom. Amen.
Hope for the World, for all nations, for my kids, for all children. Hope for peace for all.
That we should claim righteousness. Give us a humble, kind and lovely ...
August 29, 2011
PC(USA) stated clerk issues statement on August 26 bombing of UN building in Nigeria
The Reverend Gradye Parsons, Stated Clerk of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) issued the following statement on the attack on the United Nations building in Abuja, Nigeria on August 26, 2011. The Presbyterian Ministry at the United Nations, who represents the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) at the United Nations, will communicate Reverend Parson’s statement to the United Nations community.
The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) is deeply saddened to hear of the attack on the United Nations building in Abuja, Nigeria on August 26, 2011. We pray for healing and strength for those who were injured and ...
August 24, 2011
The United Nations, Israel and Palestine - Media Resources
The United Nations has been working on the question of Palestine and Israel since the first special session of the General Assembly on 28 April 1947, which established a body to investigate the issue and return with its recommendations. Over 60 years later, the range of the UN's work on the issues has continued to adapt to meet new challenges and address changing realities on the ground.
Media Resources
Peace Starts Here – video clips of life in Palestinian refugee camps provide by UNRWA
PowerPoint presentations on the humanitarian situation provided by the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian ...
August 24, 2011
The United Nations, Israel and Palestine - Points of Engagement
The United Nations has been working on the question of Palestine and Israel since the first special session of the UN General Assembly on 28 April 1947, which established a body to investigate the issue and return with its recommendations. Over 60 years later, the range of the UN's work on the issues has continued to adapt to meet new challenges and address changing realities on the ground.
Points of Engagement
The UN General Assembly, comprised of all the Member States of the United Nations, has been involved in the quest for a peaceful settlement of the question of ...
August 19, 2011
People helping people- a celebration of World Humanitarian Day
Photo: Joseph Donnelly, Caritas Internationalis
Today, I had the opportunity to join with UN Secretary General Ban Ki- moon, Undersecretary General Valerie Amos, Executive Director of UNICEF Anthony Lake as well as other senior United Nations officials in celebrating World Humanitarian Day at UN Headquarters in New York City.
This is the third year that the United Nations has celebrated this day, marked from the bombing of a UN building in Iraq in 2003, the annual day reminds us to be thankful for work of humanitarian workers today and those who have lost their lives serving others.
The theme for ...
August 19, 2011
Jesu, joy, oh our heart's comfort
A hymn prayer for the International Day of Peace:
Jesu joy of our desiring
Holy wisdom, love most bright
Drawn by Thee, our souls aspiring
Soar to uncreated light
We have sought our own good fortune
Not accounting for the cost
Indifferent to your face among us –
hardened, weary, labored, lost.
Jesu, joy of every sparrow,
Ice and island, rare earth, pine,
Are cheap goods worth our denial
That all life is intertwined?
Jesu, joy, oh our heart’s comfort
Our life’s strength, our soul’s sweet sun,
We need love, unwavering vision
To restore what we’ve undone ...
August 6, 2011
Glory to God and Peace on Earth
The International Ecumenical Peace Convocation (IEPC) gathered in Kingston, Jamaica on May 17-25, 2011. The IEPC was a "harvest festival" that celebrated the achievements of the Decade to Overcome Violence, which began in 2001. Sarah Henken and Mark Koenig led a workshop on Accompaniment as Peacemaking that featured the Colombia Accompaniment Program. Here are some resources from the IEPC to help individuals and churches to renew their commitment to nonviolence, peace and justice:
Final report of the Decade to Overcome Violence
IEPC logo used with permission from ...
August 6, 2011
Celebrate the International Day of Peace
The United Nations has set September 21 as the International Day of Peace. This day provides an opportunity for individuals, organizations and nations to create practical acts of peace on a shared date. It was established by a United Nations resolution in 1981 to coincide with the opening of the General Assembly. During the recent Youth Making a Difference seminar at the Presbyterian Ministry at the United Nations, young people identified a number of ways to celebrate the International Day of Peace. Here are some additional ideas:
Observe a Minute of Silence at Noon
Ring your church bells
Light candles ...
August 6, 2011
A prayer for the International Day of Peace
The United Nations has set September 21 as the International Day of Peace. This day provides an opportunity for individuals, organizations and nations to create practical acts of peace on a shared date. It was established by a United Nations resolution in 1981 to coincide with the opening of the General Assembly. Here is a prayer for the International Day of Peace:
Loving God, we, your children, long for the day when your shalom is the dominant culture. We long for the day
when we would turn swords into plowshares;
when our governments would grow more food than build weapons ...
August 2, 2011
Poem of Peace
Poem of Peace
Today is the day of peace,
All conflicts in the world must cease!
We will try the best we can,
To lend a helping hand.
We will give free hugs and lots of love,
And raise our hands to the sky above!
Remember that we are all the same
Even though we have a different name!!
The final activity of the Youth Making a Difference event sponsored by Givat Haviva and the Presbyterian Ministry at the United Nations involved the young people in brainstorming ideas for how to observe the International Day of Peace on September 21 ...
July 27, 2011
Official summary of UN Security Council meeting on the Middle East and Palestine
Below is the official summary from the United Nations Security Council meeting on the situation in the Middle East and the question of Palestine held yesterday.
---
6590th meeting of the Security Council
The situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question
The agenda was adopted without objection.
The President, with the consent of the Council, invited the representatives of Bangladesh, Cuba, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Egypt, Iceland, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Malaysia, Morocco, Nicaragua, Pakistan, the Syrian Arab Republic, Turkey, Uganda and the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, at their request, to participate in ...
July 26, 2011
UN Security Council holds open debate on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question
The United Nations Security Council held an open debate on the situation in the Middle East and the question of Palestine today. Below are links to background information and statements made in the Council:
Security Council Report: Israel-Palestine
Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process Robert Serry
Press Question and Answer- Palestine
Links to additional statements will be posted when they become available.
July 25, 2011
Prayer for Norway
"You shall love your neighbor as yourself. There is no other commandment greater than these." - (Mark 12:31)
Presbyterians have been called to pray for the people of Norway in the aftermath of the bombing in Oslo and the shootings on Utoya Island. A prayer, "We Live in a Broken and Fearful World," is now available on the PCUSA website. There is also a prayer for the people of Norway and for all victims of violence and terror at the The World Council of Churches Facebook page.
This attack, and all such acts of violence, violates God's image in ...
July 13, 2011
US statement on children in armed conflict
Below are remarks from U.S. Ambassador Susan Rice on the open debate on children in armed conflict held yesterday in the United Nations Security Council:
Thank you, Mr. President. We’re grateful to you, Mr. Minister, as well as to Ambassador Wittig and the German Mission for hosting this important debate and for your leadership as Chair of the Security Council Working Group. We also very much appreciate the important statements by the Secretary General, Special Representative Coomaraswamy and UNICEF Executive Director Tony Lake.
Mr. President, abuses against children in armed conflicts do not just tear at our hearts ...
July 8, 2011
NGO WORKING GROUP ON WOMEN, PEACE AND SECURITY: STATEMENT ON THE DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO
Below is a release from the NGO Working Group on Women, Peace and Security:
The NGO Working Group on Women Peace and Security is alarmed at the latest reports by its member organizations and the United Nations of mass rape and other crimes against civilians perpetrated in the Fizi area of South Kivu by troops of the armed forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The NGO Working Group urges the Government of the DRC, the United Nations and Member States to heed the voices of Congolese women, who have repeatedly stressed that such attacks stem from the persistent ...
July 7, 2011
Independence Eve for South Sudan
As these words are posted, it is early evening on 8 July 2011 in Sudan. Tomorrow brings independence for South Sudan - and significant changes for the peoples of what is now Sudan and what tomorrow will be two countries - South Sudan and Sudan.
Reports of violence continue. Plans for celebrations are in place. Fears choke at the people. Hope looms. Prayers continue:
God in your mercy, pour your grace upon all the peoples in what is now Sudan and what tomorrow will be South Sudan and Sudan. Lead them away from violence. Guide them in paths of peace. Strengthen them ...
July 3, 2011
A prayer for July 9
God who makes all things new,
as this new day dawns,
bringing the birth of a new state,
we pray out of grave concern,
we pray into hope abounding.
We pray that justice and well-being will prevail
for all the peoples of Sudan and South Sudan,
for all the peoples of South Sudan and Sudan.
Bless the peoples.
Bless the nations.
Guide them in the paths of peace.
We pray in Jesus' name.
Amen.
July 1, 2011
Season of prayer with the people of Sudan
Prayers are always in order for the people of Sudan. Prayers are particularly in order as July 9 – the date when South Sudan becomes an independent nation draws near. Our sisters and brothers in Sudan and around the world are in prayer now and will continue in prayer until and after independence is achieved.
Remembering the role that prayer played in the days before the referendum, a number of faith communities will again come together in a Season of Prayer with the people of Sudan in this time. Specifically, we are invited to pray for thirty minutes on:
- each Friday ...
June 30, 2011
World Communion of Reformed Churches issues call for a week of prayer and advocacy for Sudan
World Communion of Reformed Churches
Message from the General Secretary
30 June 2011
In solidarity with the celebration of Southern Sudan’s Independence on July 9, we call on all WCRC member churches and area councils to pray for the people of Sudan between Sunday July 3 and Sunday July 10. We are aware that many of you have been praying for years for peace in this troubled country and urge you to continue to do so.
We ask especially that worship services on Sunday July 3 and Sunday July 10 include times of prayer for a peaceful transition into ...
June 23, 2011
Secretary General elected to new term
UN Photo/Mark Garten
On Tuesday, the United Nations General Assembly unanimously voted to give Secretary General Ban Ki Moon and second five year term. The Secretary General is chosen in a two-step process.
Article 97 of the UN Charter states that, “The Secretary-General shall be appointed by the General Assembly upon the recommendation of the Security Council.” Therefore, a Secretary General needs both the recommendation from the 15 member Security Council as well as a majority vote in the 192 member General Assembly.
This year, current Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon was the only candidate under consideration, almost ensuring him ...
June 10, 2011
Come Holy Spirit to the people of Sudan
Come Holy Spirit, come to the people of Sudan.
Come Holy Spirit, come to break the hold of violence.
Come Holy Spirit, come to turn the people around.
Come Holy Spirit, come to draw the people together.
Come Holy Spirit, come to build unity within diversity.
Come Holy Spirit, come to lead the people in paths of peace.
Come Holy Spirit, come to guide the people to establish justice.
Come Holy Spirit, come to the people of Sudan.
Amen.
June 5, 2011
A prayer for the people of Sudan who know conflict
Gracious God, we pray for the people of Sudan. We pray particularly for the people in Abyei, South Kordofan, the Blue Nile, and other places where tensions run high. We pray that the military of the Government of Sudan and of the Sudanese People's Liberation Army refrain from conflict. We pray that all the people of Sudan turn from violence and work for a just and lasting peace. Guide the people. We ask in Jesus' name. Amen.
The BBC reports that the UN is investigating clashes that have broken out in South Kordofan.
June 4, 2011
The Future of South Sudan - Webcast
The US Institute of Peace announces an upcoming webcast on the future of South Sudan:
June 14, 2011
The Future of South Sudan: A Conversation with H.E. Vice President Riek Machar
As Southern Sudan's independence fast approaches, a fragile peace hangs in the balance. USIP has been involved in Sudan for nearly 20 years working on the ground, advising and collaborating with local organizations to find peaceful solutions to flashpoint issues. As the world looks to Sudan's leaders to resolve critical issues before July 9th, the Institute is pleased to host H.E. Lt. General Dr. Riek ...
June 3, 2011
Glory to you our God
Let our world be a place of celebration;
let our world be a meeting place.
Let justice spring from our earth,
and let the fruits of love flourish.
Let us make it possible
by respecting our diversity,
by sharing in solidarity,
by uniting hands and hearts,
by living together in harmony with creation.
And then peace will be reborn!
And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding,
will guard our hearts and our minds in Christ Jesus.
With this benediction, participants in the June 2, 2011 worship service at the Church Center for the United Nations, went forth to ...
June 2, 2011
A prayer of fear and hope for the peoples of Sudan
God of the ages, July 9 draws near and I fear . . . I fear for my brothers and sisters in Sudan. I fear that preparations and plans for the independence of South Sudan have not been carefully made. I fear that the United Nations and the nations and intergovernmental organizations of the world are unclear as to how to engage and support this transition. I fear that individuals and communities and factions will turn too quickly to violence. I fear that war and destruction will again be unleashed: north against south, tribe against tribe, people against people. I fear for my ...
June 1, 2011
A note of thanks for prayer from South Sudan
In response to prayers for the people of Pibor and Akobo counties of southern Sudan, we have received the following note from our partners in Eastern Jonglei Presbyery:
Brothers and sisters in the Lord
On behalf of Eastern Jonglei Presbytery, SALT (Serving and Learning Together) Leadership and the entire Murle Community, I wish to express my heartfelt gratitude for moral support and tireless prayers for Murle Community in their time of distress and tribulation caused by their Nuer brothers. God heard your prayers. The Nuer youth were planning to come back again for a third time but through your prayers ...
May 31, 2011
A new beginning
Welcome to the new home for Swords into Plowshares!
We are glad you found us.
Please subscribe or bookmark www.pcusa.org/swords-plowshares/, and continue to seek peace and pursue justice in the global community with the Presbyterian Ministry at the United Nations and the Presbyterian Peacemaking Program.
All the previously posted material will be moved to this new address.
Thanks for coming along on the journey!
May 27, 2011
Pray with the people of Sudan
Prayers are always in order for the people of Sudan. Prayers are particularly in order as July 9 – the date when South Sudan becomes an independent nation draws near. Our sisters and brothers in Sudan and around the world...
May 27, 2011
Justice and Peace Links—Words Matter
Check out the current issue of Links: Words can hurt, words can heal, and words shape our realities, coloring the ways we experience the world. They are the tools we use to interpret our experiences, to relate to one another,...
May 27, 2011
A Jerusalem Prayer - May 29, 2011
Sunday, May 29, 2011 begins the World Week for Peace in Palestine Israel 2011. Here is a prayer for that day from the Heads of Churches in Jerusalem: Isaiah 2:1-5; 11:9 “In days to come the mountain of the Lord's...
May 26, 2011
Prayers for Memorial Day
Reposting some prayers for Memorial Day. As I reflect on this day, I am reminded that almost every time our military forces have engaged, from the American Revolution to the present, they have been supported by allies - allies whose...
May 20, 2011
A prayer for members of the Security Council
God who makes us for each other, who calls us into community, who binds us together in love, we pray for the members of the United Nations Security Council as they travel to Sudan. Extend to them traveling mercies. Open...
May 14, 2011
Blessed are the peacemakers
From across the Presbytery of New York City they came to First Presbyterian Church in Brooklyn for the Presbyterian Women's Spring Gathering. The 2011-2012 Horizons Bible Study, Confessing the Beatitudes by the Rev. Dr. Margaret Aymer, provided the theme and...
May 10, 2011
YouTube films for World Week for Peace in Palestine Israel
From the convenor for the World Week for Peace in Palestine Israel, to be held from 29 May to 4 June 2011: A number of partners around the world have been working together to create new resources for our common...
May 10, 2011
A blessing
May the blessing of the God of peace and justice be with us; May the blessing of the Son who weeps the tears of the world's suffering be with us; And may the blessing of the Spirit, who inspires us...
May 5, 2011
A prayer for the National Day of Prayer
Grant us, O God, a vision of this nation as your love would have it: a nation where the weak are protected, and none go hungry or poor; a nation where the riches of creation are shared, and everyone can...
May 4, 2011
A prayer for the reign of peace
The Office of Theology and Worship of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) has written a prayer for the reign of peace: Almighty, all-merciful God, through Christ Jesus you have taught us to love one another, to love our neighbors as ourselves,...
April 27, 2011
Prayer for peace - Sunday 22 May 2011
The World Sunday for Peace is part of th...
April 25, 2011
World Week for Peace in Palestine Israel
The World Council of Churches invites member churches and related organizations to join a week of advocacy and action for a just peace in Palestine and Israel on May 29 - June 4. Congregations and individuals around the globe who...
April 21, 2011
Get home safe
It happens almost every night. I shut off the computer, turn out the light, and leave the office. I walk down the hall to the elevator and push the call button. When the cab arrives, I push "1" and head...
April 11, 2011
Building Sustainable Communities of Peace in Colombia
For over fifty years, the people of Colombia have endured violence that has displaced more than five million Colombians and driven another 500,000 from their country. Thousands more have died. Since 2000, the United States has provided Colombia over $7...
April 10, 2011
Pray for the people of Colombia
We pray for the peacemakers in Colombia, the churches, and all people who in countless ways seek to right the wrongs, heal the wounded and sick, speak the truth, and protect the vulnerable. We give thanks for those who are...
April 5, 2011
The Conflict Monitors - Afghanistan and Pakistan
From the Human Security Report Project The Conflict Monitors provide concise and current information on peace and security issues in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Each Monitor contains news, research, and data. The Conflict Monitors also provide interactive charts and maps illustrating...
February 22, 2011
Presbyterians at CSW55 - 21 February 2011
About 30 Presbyterians will attend the Commission on the Status of Women. This participation is a partnership between Presbyterian Women, Racial Ethnic Young Women Together, the National Network of Presbyterian College Women, and the Presbyterian Ministry at the United Nations....
February 22, 2011
A prayer for North Africa
God of heaven and earth, hear our prayers for our sisters and brothers that are standing up and calling for justice and peace on the northern coast of Africa. Every day we hear of yet another demonstration; and of another,...
February 14, 2011
Upcoming: side event at the CSW
Presbyterian Women are bringing Milcah Lalam of RECONCILE in Sudan to the CSW (Commission on the Status of Women) in February. The Presbyterian Ministry at the United Nations will host the Presbyterian presence at the CSW. RECONCILE's mission is to...
February 10, 2011
EAPPI Newsletter
The Ecumenical Accompaniment Programme in Palestine and Israel has posted its February 2011 Newsletter. Presbyterian Clark Scalera recently completed a term of service with the EAPPI. The EAPPI brings internationals to the West Bank to experience life under occupation. Ecumenical...
January 29, 2011
Prayers for the peoples and nations of the Middle East
In the wake of escalating tensions and civil unrest in the Middle East (and Africa), Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) leaders have issued a call to prayer for the peoples and nations of the region, as well as for PC(USA) partners. Here...
January 24, 2011
Colombia Accompaniment Program seeking volunteers
Can you give a month to accompany our Colombian sisters and brothers in the midst of violence? Consider participating in the Colombia Accompaniment Program. Leaders in the Presbyterian Church of Colombia are taking great risks in their human rights work...
January 21, 2011
A prayer by the Heads of churches in Jerusalem
Prayer by the Heads of churches in Jerusalem (3 persons to pray different sections) For the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity Heavenly Father, We give you thanks and praise for your gift to us of your only Son, Jesus...
December 23, 2010
Voices of a new generation - young people speak to UN Security Council
On December 21, 2010, US Ambassador Susan E. Rice hosted an interactive special session of the United Nations Security Council titled, "Voices of a New Generation," seeking to give young people (ages 13-21) an opportunity to address the world's most...
December 23, 2010
Heads of Christian churches in Jerusalem issue Christmas message
The heads of Christian churches in Jerusalem have issued a joint Christmas message for 2010 condemning violence in any form and saying that peace and reconciliation requires the active participation of people of faith. Full text of the message: "Glory...
December 22, 2010
Advent Devotion - December 22, 2010
Scripture - Psalm 17 “Hear a just cause, O LORD; attend to my cry; give ear to my prayer from lips free of deceit.” (Psalm 17:1) When David said those words in the tenth century B.C., he was a man...
December 18, 2010
Tears
I cried last evening. It has been a while, but I remembered how. A simple post on a friend's Facebook page started it: "They are FREE!! The 43!!!" The Morong 43 is the name given to a group of 43...
December 17, 2010
Advent Devotion - December 17, 2010
Scripture - Psalm 130 and Matthew 11:2–15 This time of year finds the air buzzing with a fabricated and often frustrated excitement. Do you enjoy or endure the holidays? Do you seek something that seems altogether missing from the list...
December 15, 2010
Advent Devotion - December 15, 2010
Scripture - Luke 3:7–14 I was nineteen years old when I first encountered the reality of modern warfare. I was standing on the deck of a troop ship as it entered the harbor of Le Havre, France. As we threaded...
December 12, 2010
Advent Devotion - December 12, 2010
Scripture - Luke 1:46–55 The stories of the birth of Jesus are witnesses of the many ways in which people can experience the transformative power of God’s presence in their lives. They also are echoes of the powerful hope this...
December 11, 2010
Advent Devotion - December 11, 2010
Scripture - Matthew 24:1–14 Now We Wait Again Tune: Picardy Now we wait again, O Jesus, For your coming in our day; We are weary with our anguish, Unto you we humbly pray: Let your healing touch our sorrows, Lead...
December 10, 2010
The hopes and fears of all the years
Reprinted from the Presbyterian News Service: Louisville The following statement is from Gradye Parsons, Stated Clerk of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) and Linda Valentine, Executive Director of the General Assembly Mission Council. Each December Presbyterians join...
December 10, 2010
Advent Devotion - December 10, 2010
Scripture - Isaiah 7:10–25 In one of our conversations with the street dweller kids in Manila, we asked them to draw on a big paper plate the food they wanted to eat during Noche Buena (a traditional Filipino dinner on...
December 8, 2010
Advent Devotion - December 8, 2010
Scripture - Isaiah 6:1–13 Finding himself unemployed, Suriya spent three days in prayer, asking for God’s direction. Then, like Isaiah, he received a vision he didn’t expect and a mission for which he felt inadequate. Yet, like Isaiah, he ultimately...
December 6, 2010
Advent Devotion - December 6, 2010
Scripture - Luke 21:20–28 and 1 Thessalonians 5:1–11 Luke paints a picture of the Son of Man returning in the midst of disturbances that are military, ecological, and astrological. This scene is in tension with the epistle lesson comparing the...
December 6, 2010
Praying for change in Myanmar
From the World Council of Churches “We believe in change and ask that you continue to pray for us.” This was the message an international team of church representatives heard again and again, as they visited people and churches in...
December 5, 2010
Advent Devotion - December 5, 2010
Scripture - Romans 15:4–13 “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 15:13) There was a point in my...
December 4, 2010
Advent Devotion - December 4, 2010
Scripture - Psalm 90 Advent leads home to Emmanuel (God-with-us). The birth of Jesus announced to shepherds, and the baptism of the Word made flesh by John in the muddy Jordan River among repentant throngs, show that God is with...
December 3, 2010
Advent Devotion - December 3, 2010
Scripture - Psalm 102 “Let this be recorded for a generation to come, so that people yet unborn may praise the LORD.” (Psalm 102:18) Many of us know some variation of the proverb “The true meaning of life is to...
December 2, 2010
Advent Devotion - December 2, 2010
Scripture - 1 Thessalonians 3:1–13 “We sent Timothy . . . to strengthen and encourage you for the sake of your faith, so that no one would be shaken by these persecutions.” (1 Thessalonians 3:2–3) I remember reading Peacemaking: The...
December 1, 2010
Advent Devotion - December 1, 2010
Scripture - Isaiah 2:1–4 Isaiah’s vision in the early chapters of his book is mostly of the punishment of Judah and Jerusalem. Judah is to be destroyed because the nation is corrupt; pride and wealth have distorted the nation God...
November 29, 2010
Negotiating Sudan's North-South Future
The International Crisis Group has issued an update briefing, Negotiating Sudan's North-South Future. The briefing notes that "foundations for a constructive post-referendum relationship are yet to be laid" between North and South Sudan. While many people "in Sudan and abroad...
November 27, 2010
Sudan bishops give message of hope before vote
Sudan bishops give message of hope before vote Caritas Internationalis, partner of the Presbyterian Ministry at the United Nations, has posted a message from the Catholic bishops of Sudan in which they reflect on the upcoming referenda in their country....
November 27, 2010
WCC Living Letters Team to visit Philippines
An international team of church representatives will pay a solidarity visit to churches, ecumenical organizations and civil society movements in the Philippines from 1 to 5 December. It will be the last in a series of "Living Letters" visits to...
November 27, 2010
Statement of expression of concern over tensions on the Korean Peninsula
From the World Council of Churches: Geneva, 24 November 2010 It is with great concern that we received the news about the escalation of tensions on the Korean peninsula. Yesterday’s use of artillery and reports of casualties on Yeonpyeong Island...
November 24, 2010
Pray for peace on the Korean peninsula
God grant peace to the people of the Korean peninsula. Turn hearts from violence. Preserve calm. Provide strength to refrain from violence. Guide the leaders in paths of peace. Amen. UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon is among the world leaders calling...
November 19, 2010
Prayers for Sudan
Here are some prayers for Sudan as the referendum on self-determination for the people of Southern Sudan approaches and takes place. Voting begins on January 9 and ends on January 15. Counting the vote may take until February. Download Prayers...
November 12, 2010
Peacemakers visit Colombia
Check out the Presbyterian News Service story about a visit to Colombia by the Rev. Shannan Vance-Ocampo, director of Colombia Programs for the Presbyterian Peace Fellowship. Shannan the group she was with saw firsthand some of the effects of U.S.-operated...
October 27, 2010
Security Council calls for ensuring women’s participation in building, sustaining peace
From the United Nations News Centre: United Nations Security Council calls for ensuring women’s participation in building, sustaining peace. The Security Council today marked the tenth anniversary of the landmark resolution on women and peace and security by calling for...
October 26, 2010
Ecumenical Advocacy Days – Register now
Register Now for Ecumenical Advocacy Days (EAD)! Come Celebrate 65 years of Presbyterian Presence in Washington, DC! The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) Office of Public Witness in Washington, DC is inviting Presbyterians to join us in the nation's capital on March...
October 22, 2010
The Prospect for Peace in Sudan: A View from Religious Leaders on the Ground - Council on Foreign Relations
Presbyterian United Nations Ministry The delegation of Sudanese church leaders who visited the United Nations community last week made a panel presentation to the Council on Foreign Relations. Find the audio here: The Prospect for Peace in Sudan: A View...
October 13, 2010
Sudan: Peace is possible; war is not invevitable
Presbyterian United Nations Ministry Gracious God of peace, you break the bow; you snap the spear asunder; you make wars to cease. We pray that you will touch the hearts, the minds, and the spirits of the leaders of Sudan...
October 9, 2010
Accompaniment in Palestine and Israel
Presbyterian Clark Scalera is serving with the Ecumenical Accompaniment Programme in Palestine and Israel. His team is based in Hebron. Follow his service and witness on his blog. Pray for a just peace for the people of Israel and Palestine.
October 9, 2010
To abandon peacemaking is to betray the faith, says Philippines church leader
From the Presbyterian News Service: International Peacemaker "the Rev. Joel Tendero has been a leader in the peacemaking ministry of the United Church of Christ in the Philippines for more than 20 years. His life has repeatedly been threatened by...
October 9, 2010
Communication, cooperation are keys to Middle East peace, Palestinian Christian says
From the Presbyterian News Service: International Peacemaker "George Abdalla is a Palestinian Christian who lives in Jerusalem. He works with his father in the family's travel agency/tour guide business, a business he will one day inherit from his father. Through...
September 24, 2010
RECONCILE - Women's peace building in Sudan
Here is a story about the work of RECONCILE - a ministry working for peace in Sudan. The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) supports this ministry. You can make a gift to support RECONCILE.
September 17, 2010
A special gift to the Peacemaking Offering
2010 is the thirtieth anniversary of the Presbyterian Peacemaking Program and the Peacemaking Offering, following the adoption by the General Assembly of Peacemaking: The Believers’ Calling, which called for a new emphasis on peacemaking across the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). This...
September 15, 2010
The Biblical Witness to Peacemaking
The Biblical Witness to Peacemaking, 2010-2011 is a daily lectionary bearing witness to God’s gift of peace and Christ’s call to peacemaking. Peacemaking is a central declaration of the gospel. Though Jesus Christ, God grants us the gift of grace....
September 13, 2010
A prayer for the International Day of Peace
Loving God, we, your children, long for the day when your shalom is the dominant culture. We long for the day when we would turn swords into plowshares; when our governments would grow more food than build weapons; when we...
September 10, 2010
Songs for Peace and Justice - Register now!
Register now - registration closes September 17. Songs for Peace and Justice Oct 10-14 - Stony Point Center "Find Your Voice: Music for a Just and Caring Church" Be part of a four-day multi-cultural creative gathering. Join pastors, church musicians,...
September 7, 2010
Order 2010 Peacemaking Advent devotion
Order the 2010 Peacemaking Advent devotion from the Presbyterian Peacemaking Program. Proclaiming the Good News of God's Peace contains a daily devotion with each day featuring a different writer. Authors are individuals who have played a key role in the...
September 7, 2010
Observe International Day of Peace
There are a number of ways to observe the International Day of Peace on September 21. One of them is the initiative A Million Minutes for Peace that invites us to pray for one minute at noon. Other ideas include...
September 4, 2010
To believe a just peace is possible
As direct negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians begin, the Stated Clerk of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), the Rev. Gradye Parsons, sent a letter to President Obama expressing appreciation for the president's work toward a just and peaceful solution to the...
August 25, 2010
Thirty
The planning team and leadership team for the 2010 Presbyterian Peacemaking Seminar gathered for worship this morning. The seminar is being held to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Peacemaking: The Believers' Calling, the General Assembly statement that called the Presbyterian...
August 12, 2010
The Rev. Dr. Mitri Raheb at 30th Anniversary Celebration
The Rev. Dr. Mitri Raheb, long-time partner of the Presbyterian Peacemaking Program and pastor of the Evangelical Lutheran Christmas Church in Bethlehem, brought greetings at the 30th Anniversary Celebration of Peacemaking: The Believers' Calling sponsored by the Presbyterian Peacemaking Program...
August 11, 2010
New resource on nonviolence at 30th Anniversary Celebration
Authors Sarah Henken and Roger Powers took a moment to autograph their book Resurrection Living: Following the Nonviolent Christ, during the 30th Anniversary Celebration of Peacemaking: The Believers' Calling sponsored by the Presbyterian Peacemaking Program during the 219th General Assembly...
August 2, 2010
Give thanks for Art Gish
I give thanks for the life and witness of long-time peacemaker Art Gish. I pray that God will comfort Peggy and all who grieve at Art's death. I had the privilege of meeting Art and Peggy several years ago when...
August 2, 2010
Help create a Presbyterian peacemaking time line
This year marks the 30th anniversary of Peacemaking: The Believers' Calling - the statement of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) that called for a renewed commitment to Peacemaking and created the Peacemaking Offering and the Presbyterian Peacemaking...
July 31, 2010
A Zillion Visions of Peace
Check out what Presbyterian Lura Pierce, a retired teacher, has been doing in retirement: From her original blog:The time has come to travel for peace. I will carry the originally designed butterfly peace quilt wherever I am invited. I will...
July 23, 2010
Why should children not be soldiers?
This was a question posed at the Presbyterian Youth Triennium. Participants created red hands with answers - red hands that will be delivered to world leaders to call them to put an end to the practice of using children as...
July 23, 2010
I pray for peace . . . Triennium Day 4
Today marked the final day in the exhibit hall at the Presbyterian Youth Triennium. Participants stopped by the booth of the Presbyterian United Nations Ministry, the Office on Child Advocacy, and the Presbyterian Peacemaking Program and added their prayers to...
July 22, 2010
Almost two a minute
117 Red Hand cards were made today at the Presbyterian Youth Triennium - in one hour. That's almost two messages every minute to be sent to world leaders to tell them that children are children, not soldiers! Thanks to all...
July 22, 2010
I pray for peace (Triennium, Day 2)
The exhibit was only open for an hour at the Presbyterian Youth Triennium today. But the hall was packed. Many participants stopped by the booth of the Presbyterian Ministry at the United Nations, the Office on Child Advocacy, and the...
July 21, 2010
Red Hands at Triennium - Day 1
Over 250 participants in the Presbyterian Youth Triennium created Red Hands to carry the message to world leaders that children are children, not soldiers. Some amazing messages were written: Stop the use of child soldiers: what if it was your...
July 20, 2010
I pray for peace in . . .
The Presbyterian Ministry at the United Nations, the Child Advocacy Office, and the Presbyterian Peacemaking Program invited participants at the Presbyterian Youth Triennium to finish that simple statement by writing on a ribbon about eight inches in length and 5/8...
July 14, 2010
God, You Spoke Your Word Through Amos
“God, You Spoke Your Word Through Amos” is a new hymn by Carolyn Winfrey Gillette. This hymn was originally written to support Bread for the World's Bread for the Preacher, July 2010. Carolyn is the author of of over 160...
June 28, 2010
Knitting lounge at 2010 Peacemaking Seminar
Re-membering Peace: Still the Believers' Calling 2010 Peacemaking Seminar Presbyterian Peacemaking Program August 25-28, 2010 (depart on August 29) Abiquiu, NM Register now! Seminar participants can make peace by responding to a need in the Abiquiu community. Come and bring...
June 27, 2010
2010 Peacemaking Seminar - peacemaking through worship
Re-membering Peace: Still the Believers' Calling 2010 Peacemaking Seminar Presbyterian Peacemaking Program August 25-28, 2010 Abiquiu, NM Register now! Our peacemaking efforts are rooted in our faith. Through worship, community is built and we are strengthened to act with compassion,...
June 26, 2010
2010 Advent Devotion book now availble
Order now! Proclaiming the Good News of God's Peace: Advent Devotions 2010 is now available. This booklet, published by the Presbyterian Peacemaking Program, provides a devotion for each day of the Advent season. It is designed to help individuals, households,...
June 25, 2010
Making music for peace
Re-membering Peace: Still the Believers' Calling 2010 Peacemaking Seminar Presbyterian Peacemaking Program August 25-28, 2010 Abiquiu, NM Register now! Music plays a key role in movements for peace and justice; music has been an important part of conferences and events...
June 23, 2010
What does it mean to follow the nonviolent Christ?
The Presbyterian Peacemaking Program is pleased to announce the publication of a journal resource on nonviolence. Resurrection Living: Journeying with the Nonviolent Christ is designed as a journal to help individuals explore the theology and ethics of nonviolence and ways...
June 20, 2010
Countdown to the International Day of Peace
On June 13, 2010, the United Nations Secretary-General issue a message about the International Day of Peace which will take place on September 21, 2010. The message follows: "One hundred days from today, the world will mark the International Day...
June 17, 2010
Prayer Partners for General Assembly
As in past years, the General Assembly Committee On Local Arrangements is recruiting Presbyterians to serve as prayer partners for each of the commissioners and advisory delegates. Several hundred more people are needed who will agree to pray each day...
June 17, 2010
Peace Among the Peoples
Peace Among the Peoples: Overcoming the Spirit, Logic and Practice of Violence July 28-31, 2010 Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary 3003 Benham Ave. Elkhart, Indiana 46517 Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary will host an ecumenical peace conference July 28-31, 2010, focusing on...
June 11, 2010
Oracion de esperanza por la paz de colombia
Oh Dios, ¿Hasta cuándo los que hacen la guerra gobernarán nuestros países? Oh Dios, ¿Hasta cuándo los que roban, matan y destruyen tendrán tanto poder? Oh Dios, ¿Hasta cuándo la seguridad será como una larga noche de terror? Oh Dios,...
June 11, 2010
A prayer of hope for peace in Colombia
O God, how long will those who make war govern our countries? O God, how long will those who steal, kill and destroy have so much power? O God, how long will security be like a long night of terror?...
June 3, 2010
2010 Peacemaking Seminar - singing songs of peace
Re-membering Peace: Still the Believers' Calling 2010 Peacemaking Seminar Presbyterian Peacemaking Program August 25-28, 2010 Abiquiu, NM Music plays a key role in movements for peace and justice; music has been an important part of conferences and events sponsored by...
June 1, 2010
Action Alert – Madagascar’s Government Targets the Church
From Presbyterian World Mission's Office on Africa Pastor Ranaivo Rivo Arson of the Church of Jesus Christ in Madagascar (FJKM) was shot and fatally wounded by Malagasy soldiers on Thursday, 20 May, when pastors were trying to hold a worship...
May 30, 2010
Pray for the people of Colombia
Pray for the people of Colombia as they participate in a presidential election today. May this election move the country and the people closer to the time when justice is done, violence ceases, and peace prevails.
May 27, 2010
Living the Believers’ Calling – support young adult peacemakers
Here's a way congregations can celebrate 30 years of peacemaking: Support a young adult involved in peacemaking making work. Consider helping to fund a Young Adult Volunteer, providing assistance to attend a conference or event, or even sending some cookies...
May 26, 2010
Living the Believers’ Calling – work to end gun violence
Here's a way congregations can celebrate 30 years of peacemaking: Work to end gun violence. Bring speakers on ending gun violence to the congregation and community. Sponsor an art exhibit with sculpture, paintings, poetry, and music that respond to gun...
May 25, 2010
Living the Believers’ Calling – Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF
Here's a way congregations can celebrate 30 years of peacemaking: Be a Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF organizer! Hold a community block party to educate and raise funds for UNICEF or a special UNICEF activity for children in church school or a...
May 25, 2010
Worship materials for World Week for Peace in Palestine Israel
May 29 through June 4, 2010 is designated the World Week for Peace in Palestine Israel by the Palestine Israel Ecumenical Forum of the World Council of Churches. Here are liturgical materials for the week: The Heads of Churches in...
May 25, 2010
World Week for Peace in Palestine Israel
From the World Council of Churches In countries across six continents, religious communities, people of faith, human rights and peace organizations are preparing to mark the World Week for Peace in Palestine Israel from May 29 to June 4, 2010....
May 25, 2010
A prayer for the people of the Korean peninsula
God of East and West, God of North and South, look with your grace upon the Korean peninsula and its people. Touch hearts and minds on both sides of the 38th parallel. Guide the leaders of North Korea and the...
May 25, 2010
A prayer for those who seek human rights in Colombia
God of justice, God of compassion, God of peace, we pray for those who work for human rights in Colombia. We give thanks for their commitment to the well-being of all the people. We give thanks for their faithful witness....
May 24, 2010
Living the Believers’ Calling – hold a youth event
Here's a way congregations can celebrate 30 years of peacemaking: Hold a youth event that focuses on 30 hours of peace. Have youth and sponsors commit to 30 hours of learning, service, and fun that explores peace-related themes. It could...
May 24, 2010
Pray for Colombia at the time of presidential election
Reprinted with permission from Called to Colombia. As Colombia moves toward presidential elections, please: Pray for candidates, for honesty, integrity, and an openness to the Spirit in their quest to gain the power to govern. Pray for the judges and...
May 24, 2010
PC(USA) partners in Colombia and the presidential election
Reprinted with permission from Called to Colombia: Our partners in Colombia, the the Iglesia Presbiteriana de Colombia, are faithful and passionate the defense of life - which in this context means the upholding of human rights. With Colombia's history of...
May 22, 2010
Spirit of the Living God - a prayer for Pentecost
Spirit of the Living God, each year we gather with hopes that our meditations may be pleasing to you. Each year we gather as your children and as your church, feeling the unquenchable fire of your Spirit,ready to be resurrected...
May 21, 2010
Living the Believer’s Calling – support the Millennium Development Goals
Here's a way congregations can celebrate 30 years of peacemaking: Learn about the Millennium Development Goals and to find ways to support this effort to improve social and economic conditions in the world's poorest countries. Look for updates from the...
May 20, 2010
Living the Believers’ Calling – work for a world free of nuclear weapons
Here's a way congregations can celebrate 30 years of peacemaking: Pray and work for a world free from nuclear weapons. Learn more and find worship resources and action ideas from the Presbyterian Peacemaking Program and the People's Movement for a...
May 19, 2010
Living the Believers’ Calling – no child soldiers!
Here's a way congregations can celebrate 30 years of peacemaking: Hold a Red Hand Sunday to call for an end to the use of children as soldiers. Create red hand prints on paper or cloth (using finger paint, drawing an...
May 18, 2010
Living the Believers’ Calling – observe the International Day of Peace
Here's a way congregations can celebrate 30 years of peacemaking: Observe the International Day of Peace, a day set by the United Nation General Assembly, on September 21. This day brings a global call for a day of ceasefire and...
May 17, 2010
The Jerusalem prayer for Sunday, 30 May 2010
The Heads of Churches in Jerusalem invite churches around the world to pray with them on Sunday, May 30, 2010. Introduction We believe that every human being is created in God’s image and likeness and that every one's dignity is...
May 17, 2010
Living the Believers’ Calling – a peace blessing bowl
Here's a way congregations can celebrate 30 years of peacemaking: Create a peace blessing bowl for the congregation. Find, make, or purchase a medium-sized bowl. Place small stones in the bowl. Near the bowl place small pieces of paper and...
May 17, 2010
Pray for and with the people of Iraq
In response to the request of the Christian leaders of Iraq, here are a couple prayers. They may be used each day at noon as part of the Covenant of Prayer with Iraqi Christians or in private devotions or corporate...
May 16, 2010
A prayer after the election in the Philippines
Gracious God, we pray for the people of the Philippines: For those newly elected to office, grant wisdom to govern wisely, end repressive policies, and enact changes that benefit all the people; For candidates who lost in the elections, grant...
May 14, 2010
Living the Believers’ Calling – respond to the HIV/AIDS pandemic
Here's a way congregations can celebrate 30 years of peacemaking: Choose a Sunday near World AIDS Day (December 1) to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS. Have a special intergenerational church school class that encourages the whole church to learn more and...
May 14, 2010
An Election Eve Haiku Prayer
Roger Scott Powers We travel today, fanning out across this vast archipelago. All praying to God for free and fair elections in the Philippines. Filipinos smile, masking fears of violence, coercion and fraud. Hoping for the best, these strong, determined...
May 13, 2010
Living the Believers’ Calling – celebrate World Communion Sunday
Here's a way congregations can celebrate 30 years of peacemaking: Lift up peacemaking ministries on World Communion Sunday and encourage expanded peacemaking efforts. Use cloths from around the world on the communion table; use breads from around the world such...
May 12, 2010
Living the Believers’ Calling – the Commitment to Peacemaking
Here's a way congregations can celebrate 30 years of peacemaking: Remember the people and issues that have been a part of the congregation's peacemaking ministries. Find pictures if possible. Create a display. Learn if and when and why the congregation...
May 11, 2010
Living the Believers’ Calling – throw a party!
Here's a way congregations can celebrate 30 years of peacemaking: Have a peacemaking party with cake, streamers, and games. Decorate the party space with signs and pictures celebrating different milestones and achievements in the congregation's peacemaking ministries. Thirty years ago...
May 10, 2010
Living the Believers’ Calling – give peace a dance!
Here's a way congregations can celebrate 30 years of peacemaking: Give Peace a Dance! Invite community neighbors and partners to a dance that celebrates common work for peace. Thirty years ago the 192nd General Assembly (1980) of the United Presbyterian...
May 10, 2010
A prayer for Memorial Day
Holy God, your love is stronger than death, and your life-giving power has no end. We commend to your eternal care all who have died in the service of others, even as we lament the violence of war. Comfort and...
May 8, 2010
A prayer for the Philippines at the time of election
God of compassion, hold the people and the leaders of the Philippines gently in these last days before the election. Fill hearts and guide spirits so that the leaders and people turn from violence. Grant courage to nurture relationships that...
May 7, 2010
Pursuing Peace Together: Working for Reconciliation in the Holy Land
Churches for Middle East Peace (CMEP) 2010 Advocacy Conference You are invited to CMEP's 2010 Advocacy Conference to learn, increase your skills, network and advocate for peace with justice in the Holy Land. The conference will be June 13th -...
May 7, 2010
Living the Believer’s Calling – share stories of peacemaking
Here's a way congregations can celebrate 30 years of peacemaking: Pick 30 people from the congregation who are peacemakers. Include saints of different ages who are or have been engaged in ministries such as social workers, student peer mediators, teachers,...
May 6, 2010
Living the Believers’ Calling – peace cranes
Here's a way congregations can celebrate 30 years of peacemaking: Learn how to fold peace cranes. Incorporate this symbol into worship. See how Central Presbyterian Church in Atlanta, GA and Ridgewood Presbyterian Church in Ridgewood, NY used peace cranes. The...
May 5, 2010
Living the Believers’ Calling – send folks to 2010 Peacemaking Seminar
Here's a way congregations can celebrate 30 years of peacemaking: Provide scholarships for congregation members to attend Re-membering Peace: Still the Believers' Calling, the peacemaking seminar at Ghost Ranch on August 25-28, 2010 (depart on August 29). Peacemakers from across...
May 5, 2010
Living the Believers’ Calling – plant a peace pole
Here's a way congregations can celebrate 30 years of peacemaking: If the congregation has planted a peace pole, hold a rededication ceremony. If the congregation does not have a peace pole, purchase or create one. Create mini-peace poles that people...
May 4, 2010
Living the Believers’ Calling – host an International Peacemaker
Here's a way congregations can celebrate 30 years of peacemaking: Talk to the presbytery peacemaking committee about hosting an International Peacemaker. International Peacemakers are leaders from countries around the world who are engaged in peacemaking. Individuals from eight countries are...
May 3, 2010
Living the Believers’ Calling – create a Peace Memorial
Here's a way congregations can celebrate 30 years of peacemaking: Dedicate space as a "Peace Memorial." Start with a section of chicken wire and invite members and friends to add symbols of the things that make for peace. Thirty years...
May 3, 2010
Women for peace
In its strategy to serve the church and help build up women's ministry in the church, and also in response to the need of the church in Iraq, the Near East School of Theology held its third event with Presbyterians...
April 30, 2010
Living the Believers’ Calling – create a peace mural
Here's a way congregations can celebrate 30 years of peacemaking: Create a peace mural. Hang a large piece of butcher paper, cloth, or poster board in a common space in the church building. Invite people to create a congregational vision...
April 29, 2010
Living the Believers’ Calling – learn about violent video games
Here's a way congregations can celebrate 30 years of peacemaking: Learn about the video games to which children and youth have access and the potentially harmful effect of viewing violent content. A free booklet by the Office of Child Advocacy...
April 28, 2010
Living the Believers’ Calling – help children learn about Sudan
Here's a way congregations can celebrate 30 years of peacemaking: Use Piece Work/Peace Work: Working Together for Peace and Sudan with elementary children from Grades 1-6. It includes four sessions, one intergenerational session and a resource section with stories of...
April 27, 2010
Living the Believers’ Calling – teach confirmands about peace
Here's a way congregations can celebrate 30 years of peacemaking Focus at least one session of the confirmation program on peace. Help confirmands learn more about peacemaking through doing. This could involve a service project or an advocacy effort such...
April 26, 2010
Live the Believers' Calling - peace facts - peace actions
Celebrate 30 years of peacemaking Start a monthly peace report in the church newsletter or bulletin. Include a “peace fact” that tells something interesting about peacemaking in the congregation, community, nation, or world. Add a “peace action” that highlights a...
April 23, 2010
Live the Believers' Calling - receive Peacemaking Program email newsletters
Celebrate 30 years of peacemaking Receive ideas for peacemaking as individuals and as a congregations. Invite individuals to subscribe to the Presbyterian Peacemaking Program’s email newsletter, Seeking Peace. Have congregational leaders subscribe to the email newsletter, Peacemaking in Congregations. Subscribe...
April 22, 2010
Live the Believers' Calling - Study
Celebrate thirty years of peacemaking Use resources from the Presbyterian Peacemaking Program in an adult education class. Find a resource list of print materials as well as online resources. Thirty years ago the 192nd General Assembly (1980) of the United...
April 21, 2010
Live the Believers' Calling - Create a Prayer Space
Celebrate thirty years of peacemaking Create a space in the church where short prayers for peace can be posted. Encourage members to ask for prayers from friends and family in other places. One congregation developed a banner containing prayers for...
April 20, 2010
Live the Believers' Calling - Pray
Celebrate thirty years of peacemaking Pray for joys and concerns that relate to peacemaking in corporate worship services. Encourage congregants to remember those joys and concerns in their daily prayers. Ask different individuals to select the joys and concerns each...
April 19, 2010
Dry Land, Living Stones: Peacemaking in Israel and Palestine
Tuesday, May 11, 2010 8:00am - 8:00pm Presbyterian United Nations Office 777 United Nations Plaza, 7th Floor New York, NY Human beings face increasingly complex challenges as the world confronts issues like climate change, hunger and poverty, and conflict. This...
April 14, 2010
Bring the world to you
Host an International Peacemaker in your presbytery, synod, or educational institution. International Peacemakers from 8 countries are scheduled to visit the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) from September 24 through October 18, 2009. These individuals from our partner churches will share about...
April 13, 2010
Act and pray for Colombia
Find four ways to can get involved in the movement to stand with those working for peace in Colombia. The suggestions come from Mamie Broadhurst and Richard Williams. Mamie and Richard, Presbyterian Mission Co-workers in Colombia have been working with...
April 7, 2010
Plan your summer
Registration is open for the 2010 Peacemaking Seminar:Re-membering Peace: Still the Believers' Calling August 25-28 (with departure on August 29) Ghost Ranch Conference Center, Abiquiu, New Mexico
April 7, 2010
Pray for Sudan at the time of the election
Here is a prayer for the people of Sudan as the April 11 election draws near. Gracious God, We seek a just and lasting peace for our brothers and sisters in Sudan. May the Sudanese people never lose hope and...
April 5, 2010
People's Movement for a Nuclear-Weapons-Free World
Founded last October, a new People’s Movement for a Nuclear Weapons-Free World is dedicated to the mission of “energizing and engaging people everywhere to envision a world free of nuclear weapons” and to work toward making it happen. The new...
April 4, 2010
Christ is risen!
Christ is risen indeed! The staff of the Presbyterian Peacemaking Program wishes you a blessed Easter! May God's grace which works resurrection transform lives and hearts around the world. May the hope and joy of resurrection sustain us to live...
March 30, 2010
Register now - 2010 Peacemaking Seminar
Register Now! 2010 Peacemaking Seminar: Re-membering Peace: Still the Believers’ Calling Location: Ghost Ranch in Abiquiui, New Mexico Dates: August 25-28 (depart on August 29) Read the seminar information brochure Use a press release to tell others about the seminar...
March 29, 2010
A prayer for repatterning our lives at Easter
A prayer for repatterning our lives at Easter Sacred Mystery, We confess that we do not much trust this resurrection story. It doesn’t fit with the headlines about Gaza and a hundred other places. It doesn’t work into our win-lose...
March 29, 2010
Care for God's earth in Armenia and America
Visit Armenia with the Presbyterian Peacemaking Program and the Presbyterian Environmental Ministries Office: Explore how people of faith care for God’s earth in Armenia and what that can teach us for caring for God's earth in America Learn about Armenia’s...
March 28, 2010
Pray, act, give for Sudan
Our colleagues at the Sudan Advocacy Action Forum have a new look to their Web page. A great look! Check it out. While you are there, take time to act for peace in Sudan - calling Congress to hold the...
March 26, 2010
A new START
President Obama announced that the United States and Russia have agreed to a new treaty limiting each country "to significantly fewer strategic arms within seven years from the date the Treaty enters into force." Plans are to sign the treaty...
March 24, 2010
Remember Oscar Romero
Join the people of El Salvador in remembering Archbishop Oscar Romero who was assassinated 30 years ago today while celebrating the Eucharist. Remember his commitment to our sisters and brothers who know poverty and oppression; remember his calls to peace...
March 23, 2010
30 ideas for 30 years
Download 30 Ways to Mark 30 Years to find 30 ideas to celebrate 30 years of peacemaking. This year marks the 30th anniversary of Peacemaking: The Believers’ Calling, the General Assembly statement that called for a new emphasis on peacemaking...
March 22, 2010
Celebrate 30 years of peacemaking!
Give thanks for peacemakers and peacemaking ministries past, present and future! 2010 marks the 30th anniversary of Peacemaking: The Believers’ Calling, icon the General Assembly statement that called for a new emphasis on peacemaking across the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) and...
March 19, 2010
Speak now on health care reform
It appears that the House of Representatives will vote on health care reform this weekend. Now is the time to contact your representative and make your opinion known. Whether you oppose the proposed plan, support the proposed plan, or would...
March 18, 2010
Peacemaking in Jamaica
The Decade to Overcome Violence initiative of the World Council of Churches is sponsoring an International Ecumenical Peace Convocation in Kingston, Jamaica in May of 2011. The International Ecumenical Peace Convocation will be a "harvest festival" celebrating the achievements of...
March 15, 2010
A Prayer for the People of Myanmar (Burma)
Gracious God, we pray for the people of Myanmar. Guide them in the paths of peace and the ways of justice. We pray for the children of Myanmar, especially those who are soldiers, orphans, refugees, or forced into labor and...
March 11, 2010
Promote the Armenia Travel/Study Seminar
The Presbyterian Peacemaking Program and the Environmental Ministries Office are partners in a travel/study seminar to Armenia on November 1-12. Participants will: * Explore how people of faith care for God’s earth? * Learn about Armenia’s relationships with its neighbors,...
March 7, 2010
Remember Archbishop Oscar Romero
March 24, 2010 marks the 30th anniversary of the assassination of Archbishop Oscar Romero, faithful follower of Jesus Christ who worked for justice and peace for the people of El Salvador. Give thanks for his life and for his witness....
February 24, 2010
Presbyterian response to comments about Middle East Study Team report
The Stated Clerk of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), has issued a statement in response to published comments about the Middle East Study Team report that will be considered at the 219th General Assembly (2010) when it...
February 12, 2010
Pray for the people of the Philippines
Here is a prayer for peace from Lei Garcia of the Philippines: Grant us peace that will BREAK our silence in the midst of violence then prophetic voices shall resonate. Grant us peace that will PULL US DOWN from the...
February 11, 2010
Send a message of peace to the Olympics
Tomorrow brings the opening ceremony for the 2010 Winter Olympics. Peacemakers are invited to participate in the 2010 Peace Project. Send a message for peace that will be posted at the Memories Thrift Store in Richmond, Canada. Memories Thrift Store...
February 4, 2010
Kairos Palestine Document
Members of Catholic , Greek Orthodox, Lutheran, Anglican and Baptist traditions in the Palestinian Christian community issued a statement in Bethlehem on December 11 called the "Kairos Palestine Document". Many of these brothers and sisters in Christ are partners of...
January 29, 2010
Presbyterian Peace Fellowship Convocation
Convocation of Peacemakers April 15-17, 2010 a national gathering of the Presbyterian Peace Fellowship to deepen the commitment to nonviolence and radical discipleship in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) The Presbyterian Peace Fellowship invites you into a hard conversation about nonviolence,...
January 29, 2010
A Christian Peace Witness Study and Invitation to Act
Christian Peace Witness is ready to bring: Tony Campolo, Sr. Dianna Ortiz, Rev. Lennox Yearwood, Kathy Kelly, Joshua Casteel, Liz McAlister, Noah Baker Merrill & Ken Butigan to YOUR CHURCH for Lent! Along with a dvd featuring profound inspiration from...
January 12, 2010
Give thanks
Give thanks for the life and witness of Miep Giles who helped hide Anne Frank and her family during the Second World War. Give thanks for all those who acted in courage to provide safety and rescue - the Righteous...
January 7, 2010
Meet the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
A new study for youth on honoring Dr. King through nonviolent action in service to others has been released by the Thoughtful Christian. In 1986, the third Monday of January was established as a national holiday. This means that for...
January 6, 2010
A Prayer for Peacemakers
Loving God, Grant us a vision of your peace, A passion for that vision, And faith and hope, Courage and wisdom, And all we need to live into that vision. We pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
January 4, 2010
Happy Christmas
I am still listening to Christmas music - at least until Epiphany. This morning's songs included "Happy Christmas (War Is Over)," by John Lennon, Yoko Ono and the Plastic Ono Band. It was a bittersweet listen - gratitude for the...
December 25, 2009
Reflexion de Adviento - 25 de diciembre
Léase Juan 1: 1-14 "Y el Verbo se hizo carne y habitó entre nosotros". (Juan 1: 14a) Cuando comemos la cena de Navidad, nuestra familia se reúne alrededor de una gran mesa redonda de roble que ha estado en la...
December 25, 2009
Advent devotion - December 25, 2009
Scripture - John 1: 1–14 “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us.” (John 1:14a) When we eat our Christmas meal, our family will gather around a big, round oak table that has been in the family since our...
December 24, 2009
Failing Gaza: No rebuilding, no recovery, no more excuses
Almost a year after violence tore Gaza and touched Israel, international aid agencies report that "little of the extensive damage" that Operation Cast Lead "caused to homes, civilian infrastructure, public services, farms and businesses has been repaired. As thousands of...
December 24, 2009
Reflexion de Adviento - 24 de diciembre
Léase Isaías 9:2-7 Un niño está por llegar. ¿Sabemos la maravilla de esas palabras? En medio de nuestro desierto, un niño esta por llegar, Y en sus manos puede sostener nuestros corazones, si se lo permitimos. En sus ojos podemos...
December 24, 2009
Advent devotion - December 24, 2009
Scripture - Isaiah 9:2–7 A child is coming. Do we know the wonder in those words? In the midst of our wilderness a child is coming, and in his hands he can hold our hearts, if we allow it. In...
December 23, 2009
Dreams for a just and lasting peace
Our friends in the Sudan Advocacy Action Forum pass on concerns from our sisters and brothers in Sudan encourage us to pray for a just and lasting peace for all the people of Sudan. Refugees International provide a brief video...
December 23, 2009
Reflexion de Adviento - 23 de diciembre
Léase Jeremías 31:10-14 Mi familia llama el día de hoy "Víspera de la víspera de Navidad". Estamos tentadoramente cerca de la celebración. Hemos sentido la inminente llegada. ¡Estamos que reventamos por buscar una montaña en la cual gritarlo a los...
December 23, 2009
Advent devotion - December 23, 2009
Scripture - Jeremiah 31:10–14 My family calls today “Christmas Eve Eve.” We’re tantalizingly close to the celebration. We sense the imminent arrival. We’re bursting to go find a mountain on which to tell it! But it’s not here yet. It’s...
December 22, 2009
PeaceNext
Every five years, the Parliament of the World's Religions welcomes thousands of people to see the world through different eyes. People of different faiths come together to learn, grow and celebrate their diversity. They realize that despite their religious differences,...
December 22, 2009
Advent devotion - December 22, 2009
Scripture - Psalm 146 Happy is [the one] who executes justice for the oppressed; who gives food to the hungry. (Psalm 146:7) The words of the psalmist anticipate the proclamation of Jesus. We will know Jesus is the Messiah because...
December 21, 2009
Advent devotion - December 21, 2009
Scripture - Luke 1:39–56 It is a challenge to live richly into the anticipation that is Advent—to keep the frenzy and the Christmas rush at bay. Yesterday we celebrated the Fourth Sunday of Advent. The Christmas Eve service is only...
December 20, 2009
Advent devotion - December 20, 2009
Scripture - Luke 1:46–55 It’s no wonder Jesus grew up to be something of a revolutionary. Listen to the song he learned at his mother’s knee: “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior ....
December 19, 2009
Advent devotion - December 19, 2009
Scripture - Luke 1:1–25 Advent is a joyful time of anticipation. We await the arrival of the Christ just as prospective parents eagerly anticipate the arrival of a baby. We prepare the house; we decorate the room; we receive gifts....
December 19, 2009
Palestinian Christians call for just peace
On December 11, Palestinian Christian Leaders released a statement commonly called the Kairos Palestine Document. The ceremony that launched the document took place at the International Center of Bethlehem and was attended by over fifty people, included members of the...
December 18, 2009
Reflexion de Adviento - 18 de diciembre
Léase Génesis 3:8-15 Adviento es la historia de la búsqueda de Dios por nosotros. Dios continúa preguntando, "¿Dónde estás?"Génesis 3 nos confronta con el proceso por el cual los seres humanos comenzaron a crear la separación. Los dos primeros capítulos...
December 18, 2009
Reflexion de Adviento 17 de diciembre
Léase Salmo 18: 1-20 El Salmo 18 fue la canción de David de triunfo cuando Dios le libró del poder de sus enemigos. Después de que David le pidió ayuda, Dios en su omnipotencia estaba dispuesto a mover cielo y...
December 18, 2009
Advent devotion - December 18, 2009
Scripture: Genesis 3:8–15 Advent is the story of God’s search for us. God continues to ask, “Where are you?” Genesis 3 confronts us with the process by which human beings began to create separation. The first two chapters of the...
December 17, 2009
Advent devotion - December 17, 2009
Scripture - Psalm 18:1–20 Psalm 18 was David’s song of triumph when God delivered him from the power of his enemies. After David called on him for help, God in his omnipotence was willing to move heaven and earth to...
December 16, 2009
Reflexion de Adviento - 16 de diciembre
Léase Salmo 50 En los días más despejados me resulta difícil establecer un equilibrio entre dos cosas a las que siento he sido llamado, trabajar activamente y con honestidad para cuidar de la creación de Dios, y sin reservas el...
December 16, 2009
Advent devotion - December 16, 2009
Scripture - Psalm 50 On my bluer days I find it hard to balance two things to which I feel called—honestly and actively working to care for God’s creation, and unreservedly celebrating its beauty. It is hard not to temper...
December 15, 2009
A Christmas prayer 2009
A Christmas prayerGod of glory and God of grace, God who creates and loves us all, God whose Holy Spirit gives us gifts for faithful living, You come to us in a child, Born in Bethlehem, a humble city in...
December 15, 2009
Advent devotion - December 15, 2009
Scripture - Psalm 33 Who is it the psalmist awaits? To whom is this believer singing praises? This writer praises the one, yes, the only one who is able to deliver on his promises and “redeem the people from death...
December 15, 2009
Spanish translations of Advent devotions
Jose Rosa-Rivera of the Ministerio Vida Abundante de la Iglesia Presbiteriana en Puerto Nuevo, San Juan Puerto Rico has provided Spanish translations [PDF] of the Advent devotions. The current file contains Spanish translations [PDF] from November 29 through December 14....
December 14, 2009
Not finished with your shopping?
Still looking for a gift for that someone special? Consider a gift that works for peace. Support the Presbyterian Peacemaking Program. There are several options. Give to: Peacemaking Offering - provide basic support for the Presbyterian Peacemaking Program's ministry Conference...
December 14, 2009
2010 Peacemaking Seminar
2010 Peacemaking Seminar Re-membering Peace: Still the Believers’ Calling August 25-29, 2010 Ghost Ranch, Abiquiu, New Mexico In 1980, the 192nd GA of the UPCUSA adopted Peacemaking: The Believers’ Calling [PDF]. In 2010, the Presbyterian Peacemaking Program invites you to...
December 14, 2009
Advent devotion - December 14, 2009
Scripture - Psalm 122 “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem.” (Psalm 122:6) Psalm 122 recorded the reflections of pilgrims visiting Jerusalem. They reveled in Jerusalem’s past glories, rejoiced in unity and security, and expressed hope for peace and prosperity. These...
December 14, 2009
Christmas prayers
Here is a Christmas prayer written this year: A Christmas prayer 2009 Here are some prayers for Christmas that we posted last year. A Prayer for Peace on Christmas Eve A Child Is Coming - A Christmas Prayer On this...
December 13, 2009
Advent devotion - December 13, 2009
Scripture: Zephaniah 3:14–20 “On that day it shall be said to Jerusalem: Do not fear, O Zion; do not let your hands grow weak. The Lord, your God, is in your midst, a warrior who gives victory; he will rejoice...
December 11, 2009
Advent devotion - December 11, 2009
Scripture: Haggai 1 In many ways, we are living the days of which Haggai speaks. Our economic and moral stability has been challenged, sending us into a survival mode much like the situation faced by Israel, whom Haggai was addressing....
December 9, 2009
Advent devotion - December 9, 2009
Scripture: Matthew 23:1–12 “The greatest among you will be your servant.” (Matthew 23:11) According to the world around us, this is the season for shopping, spending, decorating, feasting, and wearing elaborately decorated sweaters. Parties and pageants, tinsel and trees, Santa...
December 8, 2009
Advent devotion - December 8, 2009
Scripture: Psalm 33 “Our heart is glad in him, because we trust in his holy name. Let your steadfast love, O Lord, be upon us, even as we hope in you.” (Psalm 33:21–22) Sometimes I question God. How did God,...
December 7, 2009
A prayer for December 7
God of the ages, in your sight nations rise and fall, and pass through times of peril. On this day we remember with gratitude those who died in defense of Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, and all those who...
December 5, 2009
All I Want for Christmas
When it comes to Christmas music, I confess that I jump the season. At least in my personal life. Professionally, when I am designing worship, I can maintain tight seasonal boundaries. Stores may decorate. Cards may arrive. Specials may air....
December 5, 2009
Advent devotion - December 5, 2009
Scripture: Amos 5:18–27 Standing at my office window, I was startled to see the early morning sky fill with roiling storm clouds. Within minutes, torrential rain mixed with hail pelted the glass. Soon a manhole cover on the street below...
December 4, 2009
Advent devotion - December 4, 2009
Scripture: Matthew 22:1–14 We all receive invitations throughout the year that request our presence at various functions. The gospel of Jesus Christ is God’s invitation for us to have a relationship with him. This invitation comes with the certainty of...
December 3, 2009
Advent devotion - December 3, 2009
Scripture: Matthew 21:33–46 “Peace on earth,” we say in Advent, we say at Christmas, we say upon the birth of the One we call the Prince of Peace. “Peace on earth,” we say as a hope, a prayer, a longing...
December 3, 2009
Send prayers to the people of Bethlehem for Christmas 2009
Pax Christi International invites us to send Christmas prayer greetings to the people of Bethlehem. Once again, Christmas celebrations will take place in a difficult climate for people in the Holy Land. As we prepare to celebrate Advent and Christmas...
December 3, 2009
Peace on earth
Valley Presbyterian Church in Portola Valley, CA has hung their banner bearing prayers for peace on earth for all to see. How are you sharing the message of peace on earth this Advent?
November 26, 2009
Protecting civilians in South Sudan
Presbyterians recently initiated, signed and sent an interfaith letter calling for the deployment of United Nations Mission in Sudan (UNMIS) peacekeeping forces to protect civilians in South Sudan. The letter went to Susan Rice, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations,...
November 25, 2009
Pray for the people of Maguindanao
God of justice, God of compassion, God of peace, comfort those who grieve for the deaths at Maguindanao and in places whose name we do not know, work healing within those who are wounded, stir the conscience of those who...
November 25, 2009
A Massacre Most Foul, Gross, and Utterly Repugnant
The following statement comes from the National Council of Churches in the Philippines. It reflects on a massacre in Maguindanao on Mindanao Island.NCCP Statement It is a massacre most foul, gross, and utterly repugnant! The National Council of Churches in...
November 23, 2009
Pray for peace - November 29
Prayers for peace on Spiritual Nurture for Peacemakers this week include a Psalm of Peace, a prayer for Thanksgiving and a prayer for members of the Senate. Use this prayers in individual devotions or corporate worship.
November 14, 2009
Have you done your Thanksgiving shopping?
Give your friends a copy of Proclaiming the Good News of God's Peace, a daily devotional booklet for Advent 2009. It makes a lovely Thanksgiving present! Peacemakers across the country and around God's world contributed to the booklet. Use Proclaiming...
November 2, 2009
New study resource on Sudan for children
Order Piece Work/Peace Work: Working Together for Peace and Sudan at the Presbyterian Marketplace. Use item number 24-358-09-008. The cost is $8.00 plus shipping and handling.Piece Work/Peace Work: Working Together for Peace and Sudan is a curriculum designed for elementary...
November 2, 2009
Community of Living Traditions
Something new is happening at Stony Point Center. An interfaith intentional community dedicated to nonviolence and peacemaking is in the making. For at least five years, Christians, Muslims and Jews will live together at Stony Point where they will work,...
October 30, 2009
Learning about Sudan in Maryville
In the Presbytery of East Tennessee, International Peacemaker the Rev. Orozu Lokine Daky, from Sudan, and Dr. Ingrid Reneau, a PC(USA) Mission Co-worker in South Sudan, offered workshops at the Global Voices Summit. This event was sponsored by the group,...
October 23, 2009
Proclaiming the Good News of God's Peace
Peacemakers from across the United States and around God's world contributed to Proclaiming the Good News of God's Peace, a daily devotional booklet for Advent 2009. Using lectionary texts, the writers reflect on God's gift of peace and explore what...
October 18, 2009
A prayer for United Nations Day
Here is a prayer for the United Nations for use in relation to United Nations Day (October 24) or any appropriate time: God of compassion, walk alongside all of your global stewards who work to create a more just and...
October 15, 2009
Worship resources for United Nations Day
October 24 is United Nations Day. The Presbyterian Peacemaking Program and the Presbyterian United Nations Office offer worship materials for use on Sunday, October 25 or another time. Download O God Who Formed Creation [PDF], a hymn by the Rev....
October 12, 2009
Isaiah and the work of the United Nations
Check out the new study on the United Nations from The Thoughtful Christian. In three sessions, this group Bible study for adults discusses the biblical hope for peace among the nations in Isaiah and the work of the United Nations....
October 11, 2009
On the road with International Peacemakers
Eleven International Peacemakers, church leaders from partner churches of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in other countries, recently traveled around the country telling about ministries of peace and justice in the name of Jesus Christ in their home countries. Five of...
October 11, 2009
They knew the way to San Jose
On their visit to the Presbytery of San Jose, the Rev. Delia Leal and Ms. Tracey King spoke about issues of peace, justice, and mission in Guatemala in the name of Jesus Christ. Their visit included a presentation at a...
October 2, 2009
Peacemaking Offering
This Sunday, many Presbyterian congregations will receive the Peacemaking Offering which supports peacemaking ministries across the church, including the Presbyterian Peacemaking Program. Not going to be in a Presbyterian congregation on Sunday? No problem, you can give online! Presbyterians will...
September 30, 2009
Call for strong U.S. leadership II
Churches for Middle East Peace offers an opportunity to join the call for strong U.S. leadership to achieve toward a just, lasting and comprehensive resolution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. Prominent Christian, Jewish, Muslim and other leaders issued a statement on...
September 30, 2009
Peace be with you
Here again is the video that promotes the Peacemaking Offering. A litany based on the video is available. Download Peace Be with You Litany [PDF]. It appears below the video. It may be adapted for use when the Peacemaking Offering...
September 29, 2009
World Communion Sunday, II
Here are two prayers for World Communion Sunday from the 2008 worship resource [PDF] provided by the Presbyterian Peacemaking Program. Prayer of the Day O God of majesty, as we gather today to worship you, disquiet us and your whole...
September 29, 2009
How will your congregation use its share?
Congregations that receive the Peacemaking Offering are encouraged to keep 25% of the offering for use in peacemaking ministries of their choice. These funds are used in many creative ways by different congregations. Ministries supported by the Peacemaking Offering include:...
September 25, 2009
Call for strong U.S. leadership
Prominent Christian, Jewish, Muslim and other leaders issued a statement on September 22 calling for strong U.S. leadership [PDF] to achieve a just, lasting and comprehensive resolution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. The statement was drafted by Churches for Middle East...
September 22, 2009
They are here!
Eleven International Peacemakers have arrived in Louisville. These brothers and sisters from Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) partner churches around the world are currently in a time of orientation (and jet lag recovery!) On Friday, they will begin a period of travel...
September 21, 2009
International Day of Peace at Presbyterian Center
The International Day of Peace was celebrated during a Taize worship service at the Presbyterian Center today. Download International Day of Peace 2009 Worship Service [Word doc]. The service included a minute of silence at noon, a prayer written by...
September 21, 2009
Is peace possible?
Is Peace with Justice Possible in Israel/Palestine? The Joining Hands for Justice, Atlanta/Palestine Committee and the Presbytery of Greater Atlanta, Peacemaking Committee will sponsor an event that explores that question on Saturday, October 17 from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm...
September 20, 2009
A prayer for International Day of Peace
Looking for a prayer to use during the Million Minutes for Peace initiative on the International Day of Peace? Here's one from Sara Lisherness, Director of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)'s Compassion, Peace and Justice ministry: Holy God, you are the...
September 18, 2009
International Peacemakers
Each year the Presbyterian Peacemaking Program brings International Peacemakers to the United States to share stories of ministries of peace and justice in their own country. This year's Peacemakers have begun to travel to this country. Their travels through this...
September 17, 2009
Peacemaking among the early followers of Jesus
Here is a study resource that addresses the question "Is Christianity a Nonviolent Faith?" [PDF] Written by the Rev. Tim Simpson of Jacksonville, Florida, the resource explores the witness to nonviolence and peace in the New Testament and the writings...
September 10, 2009
Peace be with you
Use the new Peace Be with You video to promote the Peacemaking Offering which supports peacemaking ministries across the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) and the Presbyterian Peacemaking Program. Download the video. Find additional promotional materials. Give to the Peacemaking Offering.
September 8, 2009
Coming to a location near you?
Will an International Peacemaker be appearing near you this year? Hopefully the answer will be yes. Check and see. [PDF] The Presbyterian Peacemaking Program will bring eleven International Peacemakers to the United States in less than a month. International Peacemakers...
August 8, 2009
Moved By Faith: A Call for Peace in Sudan
Here is a letter to President Barack Obama on behalf of peace in Sudan. Please send this letter to the President. For email, copy the letter below; go to the web form provided by the Presbyterian Church’s Washington Office; check...
July 27, 2009
Act now for peace for Israel/Palestine
The following invitation to engage in advocacy on behalf of a just peace for Israel and Palestine during the summer Congressional recess comes from the July 21, 2009 Witness in Washington Weekly (PDF) by the Presbyterian Washington Office. Following President...
June 23, 2009
Support bold action for Holy Land peace
Join major Christian leaders from Catholic, Evangelical, Protestant, Orthodox and historic African-American traditions who have come together to declare their support for bold U.S. action and to call for meaningful progress to achieve a just and lasting two-state peace. More...
June 18, 2009
Pray for peace
Prayers on Spiritual Nurture for Peacemakers this week include a prayer of confession for Men of the Church Sunday and a prayer for seeing God in one another. The page includes a daily lectionary drawn from the Biblical Witness to...
May 30, 2009
American leadership on Middle East peace
Has your Representative signed the Cohen-Boustany-Carnahan letter? This letter from Representatives to President Obama urges support of strong American leadership on Middle East peace. The sign on date has been extended to June 2. There are currently 63 signers. View...
May 28, 2009
Thank UN Peacekeepers
They are not perfect as individuals or as a group. No individuals are. No group is. The mandates they operate under are sometimes inadequate. But some 100,000 men and women from 118 countries serve as UN peacekeepers in 16 of...
May 7, 2009
Read Peace Notes
Peace Notes is the print publication of the Presbyterian Peacemaking Program. It comes out three times a year. The Spring 2009 issue is now available to read or download. The issue contains information about International Peacemakers, events in the Philippines,...
May 2, 2009
I bought my mother flowers, but . . .
I grew up as a child on Neville Island, about nine miles down the Ohio River as the car drives from Point State Park and the confluence of the Monongahela and Allegheny Rivers in Pittsburgh. We lived on Front River...
April 27, 2009
Prevent the Collapse of South Sudan
Urge Congress to act to prevent the collapse of South Sudan. Were a collapse to occur, it would gravely threaten prospects for peace in Sudan as a whole, including Darfur. Since 2005, two million south Sudanese have returned to the...
April 18, 2009
Christian Peace Witness for Iraq
Download A Christian Peace Witness brochure [pdf] describing the events that will take place in Washington and suggesting ways to witness of peace if we cannot be present in Washington.
April 12, 2009
If you can't make it to Atlanta, what about Ghost Ranch?
The summer bubbles over with good opportunities for learning, fellowship, and growth. Presbyterian Peacemaking Program staff members are involved in a number of them. In June, there is the Big Tent where peacemakers will explore peacemaking in the neighborhood where...
April 12, 2009
Easter greetings
Christ is risen! Christ is risen so that: in the face of fear, you may know faith; in the face of hate, you may have courage; in the face of indifference, you may share love; in the face of anger,...
April 7, 2009
Call your Senators for a world without nuclear weapons
"Today, I state clearly and with conviction America's commitment to seek the peace and security of a world without nuclear weapons." President Barack Obama, Prague, April 5, 2009 President Obama cannot do this alone. He needs our support. Please call...
March 17, 2009
Pray for Madagascar
In the wake of a violent power struggle, our church partners in the Church of Jesus Christ in Madagascar (FJKM) have requested prayer. Presbyterian ministry with the FJKM supports an environmental program and helps dig wells. May the people know...
March 11, 2009
Pray for peace
This week Spiritual Nurture for Peacemakers includes a prayer for the third Sunday of Lent, a prayer of confession related to the use of torture, and a prayer for Sudan. Use or adapt these prayers in corporate worship or individual...
March 8, 2009
Pray for the people of Sudan
The Sudan Advocacy Action Forum, a Christian grassroots effort to advocate for a just and lasting peace in Sudan, provides a prayer for the people of Sudan, written by Simon Chol Mialith, Peace Building Officer for RECONCILE in Yei, Southern...
January 8, 2009
All Violence Must Stop
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) Stated Clerk Gradye Parsons has issued a statement on the Gaza-Israel Crisis. The statement begins: "Whether Jew, Muslim, or Christian, we share commandments of love for God and neighbor. Therefore, all violence in Gaza, Israel, and the...
January 8, 2009
Urge Immediate U.S. Efforts to End Gaza Violence, Restore Cease-Fire
The Presbyterian Washington Office provides an opportunity to advocate with our elected officials urging them to call all the parties to the violence in Gaza to restrain from using force and, rather, to trust a diplomatic process.
December 31, 2008
Statement by church leaders in Jerusalem
On December 30, 2008, the Patriarchs and Heads of the Churches in Jerusalem issued a statement “on the current devastating situation in Gaza.” The statement “calls upon all officials of both parties to the conflict to return to their senses...
December 31, 2008
Presbyterian leaders speak to the situation in Gaza and Israel
The leaders of the Presbyterian Church have issued a brief statement on the violence in Gaza and Israel. December 30, 2008 Even as we celebrate the birth of the Prince of Peace, we are anguished by stories of violence and...
December 30, 2008
Act for Peace in Gaza
Violence continues in Gaza - the violence of Hamas rockets and the violence of the Israel Defense Forces and the violence of the blockade of Gaza. Inspired by the nonviolent Jesus, who is the Prince of Peace, Christians trust that...
December 28, 2008
Pray for Gaza
As rockets fly from Gaza As airplanes pound Gaza As the blockade tightens its noose on Gaza It is a time to pray for Palestinians to pray for Israelis to pray for victims of violence to pray for those who...
December 24, 2008
On this night we gather
On this night bellies spasm with hunger winter seeps into the bones of people with no homes thoughts turn to Afghanistan, Zimbabwe and places between and beyond people plot violence children watch parents die of AIDS, wondering when their turn...
December 16, 2008
A Prayer for Peace on Christmas Eve
Here's a prayer you are welcome to use or adapt in personal devotions or corporate worship: God of life and God of hope, we give you thanks and praise this night as we gather to remember the birth of Jesus...
December 6, 2008
More on Prayers with Bethlehem, Israel, Palestine
An earlier posting addressed the new tradition of praying for justice, peace and security for Bethlehem, Palestine and Israel. The email messages go to the Arab Educational Institute (also known as AEI-Open Windows). Their email address is aei@p-ol.com. AEI-Open Windows...
September 18, 2008
A Peace Vigil--In Iran
The Fellowship of Reconciliation reports that the Tehran Peace Museum and the Society for Chemical Weapons Victims Support are planning a candlelight vigil at 19:00 local time (10:30 EST) on September 21 to commemorate the UN-designated International Day of Peace....
September 13, 2008
Text for Peace - The Graphic Version
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August 25, 2008
Imaging Peace
What image comes to mind when you hear the word peace? Start not with a definition but with a picture. Don't resort to words. Be visual. What do you see in your mind’s eye when you hear the word peace?...
June 21, 2008
The Banner Anniversary
This year marks the 25th Anniversary of the Commitment to Peacemaking. Over 4,500 Presbyterian congregations, as well as several presbyteries and at least one synod, have affirmed this Commitment. The Commitment makes a public commitment that working for peace and...
May 11, 2008
Promoting the Great and General Interests of Peace
On the National Network of Presbyterian Women's blog, Noelle Gulden has posted Julia Ward Howe's 1870 call to celebrate Mother's Day. Howe envisioned a day when women would remember the lives lost in war and hold a gathering dedicated to...
April 28, 2008
Save $100 - Offer Extended
Now you have until May 20 to save $100 when you register for this year's seminars at Ghost Ranch! In my opinion, any week at Ghost Ranch is a good week, but there are a couple of weeks that might...