In observance of International Day of Nonviolence, Oct. 2, Mission Network is sharing a nine-episode educational video mini-series, "Stir Up Peace," which details how to apply nonviolent direct to action to create change. The series, a collaboration between Mennonite Mission Network and husband-and-wife team Jonathan and Sarah Nahar, aims to empower congregations and individuals to learn creative tactics to reject physical force and the threat of violence, to achieve collective goals.

"We tried to make a video series that would minister to a range of people in your church," said Sarah. "So, by the end of the series, there would be some shared language and shared analysis to then say, 'What can we do together?'"

Each of the nine episodes touches on a different aspect of what nonviolent direct action looks like and how it can be applied as a response to violence, racism, oppression and injustice. The series, which includes curriculum and guidance for group discussion, is free to use for all individuals, congregations and groups.

"When we see people do things, there is often a justification for it," Sarah explained. "There is often a story that is powering their actions. Part of what we do in nonviolent direct-action training is understand the narratives that propel violence."

Christ exemplified living a life of non-violence, and Christians are called to follow his example as they serve others in their local communities and across the globe. Because of this, peacemaking is interwoven into all parts of Mission Network's vision and ministries.

"We believe that participating in nonviolent direct action is a faithful way of following Jesus," said Sarah.

Explore the entire "Stir Up Peace" video series.