An introductory workshop that might include deepening an understanding of Jesus and nonviolence and implications for conflict transformation, peace-building, mercy, forgiveness, restorative practices and links to the Year of Mercy.
The message for the celebration of the Fiftieth World Day of Peace by Pope Francis in January refers to nonviolence at many levels: personal, relational, societal, institutional-structural, international. these invite further questions about how do we actually live this nonviolent way and grow it within our spheres of influence...while also continuing to build on the Year of Mercy initiative and activities.
An opportunity to gain shared meaning/understanding of 'the nonviolent way', skill-building in the areas of dialogical methodologies such as Open Space, Appreciative Inquiry, circle work, restorative justice and how these link to building a culture of nonviolence.
Using a dialogical methodology to explore ideas, questions, initiatives and promptings of the Spirit to make social justice a more deeply lived reality in our Catholic school communities.
As people of faith, on a journey towards nonviolence and seeking wholeness, we need to know who we are and how the dominant culture into which we were born shapes and conditions us. It is the integration of the inward and outward journeys that makes for sustainable spiritual growth in nonviolence.
The call in the message is both provocative and challenging:
'To be true followers of Jesus today also includes embracing his teaching about nonviolence' (Para 3)
About the facilitator: Brendan grew up in the 'troubled' north of Ireland and is currently an Associate Staff Member with the international Pace E Bene Nonviolence Service (www.paceebene.org). Brendan has been involved in adult education, group facilitation and nonviolent social transformation for the past twenty-five years. He enjoys combining his Irish spirit with a passion for peace.
Facilitator: Brendan McKeague