For discussion: Rethinking peace

Questions for reflecting on and discussing the feature article, Rethinking peace (Oct. 14, 2013 issue)

October 9, 2013 | Feature
By Barb Draper |

1. What would happen if someone in your congregation joined the military? Would your church have a prayer of blessing to send him on his way? What does peace mean to you? Can someone who loves peace serve in the military?

2. Do you think Mennonite Church Canada churches are drifting away from a strong peace position? Do you agree with Esther Epp-Tiessen that Mennonites have been reluctant to critique Canada’s participation in Afghanistan? How does your congregation teach peace theology?

3. How do you respond to arguments for redemptive violence? Can violence ever serve to promote peace? What is most persuasive about the “just war” theory? Are you swayed by the arguments of the United Nations’ Responsibility to Protect doctrine, the idea that force must sometimes be used to protect vulnerable people?

4. How effective are petitions, signs or marches in promoting peace? What should be the church’s role in influencing government policy? What does it mean to take a public stand for peace? What are some ways we can work at building peace?

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