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North Americans find supporting role
Growing up in a “holiness” Methodist environment, Derek Keefe’s early faith focused on internal dimensions of the Christian life. Helping the Centre for Contemporary Christianity in Ireland promote peace and reconciliation for the last nine months has assured him of the importance of both internal and external dimensions of the faith, reminding him that faith that does not show itself in works of compassion and concern for justice is no faith at all. “Mission here (for North Americans) is more about learning,” Keefe said. His role at the centre is a supporting one, working in the office rather than on the front lines. As long-time worker Joe Campbell (also with Mennonite Church Canada Witness and Mennonite Central Committee) said, “The role of the outsider is to be in the backroom or as a cheerleader.” The real movement needs to come from the Irish. Keefe said North Americans and individual denominations must eliminate the idea that they have all the answers. The point of his service has not been to take his perspective to Europe, but to bring the Irish perspective back to the U.S., especially the reconciliation work between such conflicting groups as the Protestants and Catholics. But the key, he said, lies in recognizing both the internal and external dimensions of biblical peace work. He leaves Ireland realizing that discipleship requires blending both intimacy and advocacy. It takes both pieces, Keefe said, to create a whole peace. Also in this issue: Features Related articles Regular features |
