Peace and Human Security
Global Ministries is committed to a “prophetic vision of a just and peaceful world order, joining with God’s concern for the poor and oppressed.” We work closely with global partners to address issues of conflict and systemic violence, to secure human rights and basic human needs, to “seek peace and pursue it.”
“Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.” Psalm 34:14
We understand peace to be more than the absence of conflict. To seek a just peace means we must also seek wholeness and reconciliation, as conveyed in the biblical concept of shalom. Whether called salaam, shanti or paz, a just peace means we must address issues of human security as well as global security, of powerlessness, marginalization, and desperate want as much as national interest or private wealth.
Event Focus
September 21 is the International Day of Peace and the International Day of Prayer for Peace International Day of Prayer for Peace.
Global Ministries International Peace Day Resources
Gender-Based Violence
Just Peace Theory and Practice
The 1985 UCC Just Peace Church Pronouncement calls us “to explore and develop new models of peace and justice ministries globally to address particular situations of injustice, oppression, and real or potential violence, and to develop communication links between Christians in these critical situations and Christians in the United States, developing global partnership and global awareness in the search for a Just Peace.”
In a 2010 resolution, the National Council of Churches Governing Board wrote, “While the just war position only defines criteria under which the use of force is acceptable, a just peace perspective describes foundations for nonviolent conflict and the building of justice, reconciliation, and abundant life. The engagement of “just peace” is not merely a reaction to conflict. “Just peace” is proactive, requiring governments and other authorities to address in advance those conditions that may lead to future violence: poverty, hunger, economic injustice, climate change and many more.”
Appendix, A Call to End the War in Afghanistan, National Council of Churches of Christ (USA) Governing Board, Nov. 9, 2010, New Orleans, LA
Human Security and Demilitarization
- Strengthen Human Security
- Reduce Militarization
- Support Peacemaking “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” Matthew 5:9
Regional Conflicts and Peace Efforts
Arab-Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
Colombia
Congo, Democratic Republic of the
Darfur and the Sudan, A Responsibility to Protect Campaign
East Timor
Iraq
Philippines, Stop the Killing Campaign
For More Information
Christian Peace Witness
Disciples Peace Fellowship
Disciples Justice Action Network
Ecumenical Advocacy Days for Global Peace with Justice
Fellowship of Reconciliation
On Earth Peace
UCC Just Peace
World Council of Churches, Promoting Just Peace
Resources
Worship Resources
Disciples Peace Fellowship “Peace Sunday” resources
International Ecumenical Peace Convocation (2011) Hymns and Prayers
“The Sword of Peace,” Sermon by Rev. Dr. Janet Parker
“Their Plowshares are Beat into Swords,” by Prof. Walter Brueggemann
Related Resolutions
Global Ministries Resolution on the International Situation, 2003
National Council of Churches, Pillars Of Peace for the 21st Century: A Policy Statement on the United Nations, November 11, 1999
UCC Just Peace Church Pronouncement, General Synod 15, 1985
World Council of Churches An Ecumenical Call to Just Peace, Kingston, Jamaica, 2011