PJSN will give away peace book to congregations

A joint release by Peace and Justice Support Network, Mennonite Mission Network and Mennonite Church USA.

RALEIGH, N.C. (Peace and Justice Support Network/Mennonite Mission Network/Mennonite Church USA) — 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. The Peace and Justice Support Network is a joint ministry of Mennonite Mission Network and Mennonite Church USA.

The book is gaining influence with other Christian denominations and churches, notably Willow Creek Community Church, near Chicago.

“Lynne [Bill Hybels’ wife] 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.

Register online to receive a copy of Reconcile for your congregation.

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For immediate release

Mennonite Mission Network, the mission agency of Mennonite Church USA, leads, mobilizes and equips the church to participate in holistic witness to Jesus Christ in a broken world. Media may contact news@mennonitemission.net.