On Earth Peace hosts sixth monthly 'truth-in-recruiting' support call.

On Earth Peace recently hosted its sixth monthly support call for people working on "truth in recruiting" and alternatives to military service. Participants from Nebraska, Tennessee, West Virginia, Maryland, Indiana, and North Carolina included Brethren, Mennonites, and a Quaker. Several are active in local communities; others are regional or national organizers.

The monthly support calls are an opportunity for spiritual and practical support for those involved in counter-recruiting and offering alternatives to the military, said Matt Guynn, coordinator of peace witness for On Earth Peace. "There is a growing concern in the US about the promises made by military recruiters," he said. "It turns out that they aren't bound by any verbal or written promises made when young people sign the enlistment papers. We hope to spread this information, and help anyone who wants to find useful, income-producing alternatives to military service. As Christians, we hope to recruit people to serve the Lord of life, not the forces of death."

In addition, nearly 50 people participate in an e-mail discussion list on counter-recruitment, hosted by On Earth Peace.

The next "Truth in Recruiting" support call is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 25, at 7 p.m. Eastern time. The call will feature in-depth reports from two or three local organizers and a question and answer time. To join the network, contact Guynn at 765-962-6234 or mattguynn@earthlink.net, or visit www.brethren.org/oepa/CounterRecruitment.html. The 146 Decade to Overcome Violence congregations in the Church of the Brethren are especially encouraged to participate.

Source: 10/12/2005 Newsline
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