"Widening the Circle" gathering deepens spiritual roots for living in a diverse world.

"When we talk about diversity, we're not talking about some utopian goal but a reality that is already among us. Many of us don't yet navigate the crossing of boundaries very well! This difficult journey is the heart of following Jesus." With these words, Bible study leader Ched Myers captured the essence of "Widening the Circle: Peacemaking in the Midst of Diversity," which took place March 11-14 in La Verne, Calif.

Over 120 Brethren and friends from various faith traditions, including students from eight universities and seminaries, attended the third annual Organizing for Peace gathering. The event, co-sponsored by the University of La Verne (ULV), the La Verne Church of the Brethren, and On Earth Peace, a peace education organization in the Church of the Brethren, was intended to deepen the spiritual roots of faith-based peacemakers working in a world diverse in race, class, and religion.

Speakers included Lourdes Arguelles, professor of education at Claremont (Calif.) Graduate University; Daniel Loera, director of Multicultural Affairs at ULV; and Muslim imam Ali Siddiqui. James Lawson, an associate of Martin Luther King, Jr., spoke about the connection between peace and justice, asserting that peace churches have failed to grapple with the deep spiritual evil of the $800 billion war industry and have failed to engage the politics of Jesus and the Kingdom of God. Sunday morning worship featured Claremont School of Theology professor Elizabeth Conde-Frazier on the transforming power of Jesus to create shalom.

Jubilee Troupe, an Anabaptist-based interactive arts ensemble, made its debut at the conference. The troupe contributed sacred drama and dance, often poignantly reflecting the feelings and dreams expressed by conference participants. "This was a peaceful, spiritual, and blessed event," said participant Amy Adkins, of the Brethren Witness/Washington Office.

Source: Newsline 4/02/2004 top