The Peace and Justice Support Network is offering a free
copy of John Paul Lederach’s Reconcile to any Mennonite Church USA
congregation to consider using as the basis of a sermon, Sunday school class,
or small-group discussion.
Reconcile offers
guidance for Christians in Scripture and personal applications of
reconciliation. Originally published as The
Journey Toward Reconciliation and based on Lederach’s work in 25 countries
across five continents, this revised and updated book tells dramatic stories of
what works—and what doesn’t—in resolving and transforming conflicts. A section
of resources for congregations and small groups offers litanies, discussion
questions, resource lists, and practical ideas for peacemaking in everyday
life.
“Reconcile is a
wonderful resource for Mennonite Church USA congregations to engage anew with the
principles of reconciliation that are at the heart of the gospel of peace. We
are glad to offer a free copy of the book to any congregation willing to
consider using it in the life of their church,” said Jason Boone, coordinating minster
of the Peace and Justice Support Network.
Reconcile is
gaining influence with other Christian denominations and churches, notably
Willow Creek Church.
“Lynne and I feel deeply called to the work of peacemaking
these days. We know it is very near to the heart of the One we serve. No one’s
writing on reconciliation has helped us more than John Paul Lederach’s,” said
Bill Hybels, senior pastor and co-founder of Willow Creek Community Church.
Hal Shrader, pastor of Trinity Mennonite Church in Glendale,
Ariz., recently preached a sermon based on Reconcile,
and feels its message is relevant for Mennonite Church USA.
"As Mennonites, we shouldn’t be forgetting the
Anabaptist value of peacemaking, reconciliation and conflict resolution when
the larger Christian world seems to be discovering and embracing it,"said Shrader.
