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Jesus said: "Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they shall be called children of God"
How can we be peacemakers in a divided world?
In our Christian Conversations forum each Sunday, parishioners sit in a circle and discuss-- how can we bridge divisions in our homes, families, neighborhoods, politics, and in the church?
What does it mean to be at peace?
The word "peace" can refer to the absence of conflict, but it also points to the presence of something better in its place. True peace is taking what is broken and restoring it to wholeness.
A video on peace from the Bible Project gives this context: "Paul instructed local churches to keep their unity through the bond of peace, which requires humility and patience and bearing with others in love. Becoming people of peace means participating in the life of Jesus, who reconciled all things in heaven and earth, restoring peace through his death and resurrection. So peace takes a lot of work because it’s not just the absence of conflict. True peace requires taking what’s broken and restoring it to wholeness, whether it’s in our lives, our relationships, or in our world." (Ephesians 4:2-3 11, Colossians 1:2)
How can we at All Saints build peace?
Unity and peace in the midst of differences can be a strength and powerful witness of the church.
At a recent Christian Conversations forum, we explored what it means to bridge divisions in a politically charged world. Parishioners who work in politics shared how they practice faithful listening: seeking the person behind the position and approaching each conversation as an opportunity to learn.
Several parishioners shared that Wednesday night dinners at All Saints (6 pm each week) have become a life-giving rhythm. In the midst of demanding schedules, this simple gathering offers respite and a midweek reset. Around the table, conversation slows. They may find themself sitting with someone who is not entangled in the bustle and grind of their work week, someone with a different perspective, and in that space, discover a shared grounding in Christ.
Our politics are not our creed. Our shared life in Christ is. And in that shared life, love for one another has the power to transcend every divide.
How can I learn more and pursue peace?
Join the Christian Conversations class on Sunday mornings at 9:30 in the Library, until May 10.
Or join the summer book club at All Saints for more conversations about faith, culture, and how we live. (No time to read? We have podcasts that will catch you up to speed in an hour - follow the QR code links here or check All Things All Saints, the Friday email for more information.)
June book: God and Money
Thursday, June 11 at 7 PM
Sunday, June 14 at 9:30 AM
July book: The After Party: Toward Better Christian Politics
Thursday, July 16 at 7 PM
Sunday, July 19 at 9:30 AM
August book: You Are What You Love
Thursday, August 20 at 7 PM
Sunday, August 23 at 9:30 AM
Read more about the Summer Book Club here.
See a list of Spring Adult Formation classes here.
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