Synodality and grassroots peacebuilding as expressions of Gospel nonviolence
Preparatory reading
“Alongside action, it is more necessary than ever to cultivate, prayer, spirituality, and ecumenical and interreligious dialogue as paths of peace and as languages of encounter within traditions and cultures …We must promote self-awareness in civil societies, forms of responsible association, experiences of nonviolent participation of restorative justice on both a small and large scale.”
-Pope Leo XIV, World Day of Peace Address
“We have to make truth and nonviolence not matters for mere individual practice but for practice by groups and communities and nations. That at any rate is my dream. I shall live and die in trying to realize it.”
-Gandhi
Scripture Reading: Matthew 5:3-16
Blessed are the poor in spirit,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn,
for they will be comforted.
Blessed are the meek,
for they will inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
for they will be filled.
Blessed are the merciful,
for they will be shown mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart,
for they will see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they will be called children of God.
Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.
You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify God in heaven.
Questions for Reflection
• Do you belong to, or could you initiate, a circle of peace and nonviolence in your local community?
• What nonviolent movements and actions have you participated in?
• Where do you see the hope and power of active nonviolence working in the world today?
Prayer
God of peace…help me to serve your reign of peace by joining the global grassroots movement of nonviolence. Make me an instrument of your peace, that I might do my part to help abolish war, poverty, hunger, racism, sexism, executions, nuclear weapons, systemic injustice and environmental destruction, and welcome your nonviolent reign of peace and justice here on earth. As your beloved, may I always live in your peace and love, and serve you now and forever. Amen.
-John Dear, A Nonviolent Life