Responding to the Sin of Violence Against People
Return to Our 2025 Lenten Pilgrimage of Hope
“Blessed are those who work for peace: they will be called children of God.”
Matthew 5:9 Inclusive Bible
Violence against people comes in many forms. It is a complex concept that can take physical, verbal, and psychological forms. It includes war and violent crimes, structural violence stemming from unjust social and economic systems, and cultural violence involving the devaluing of certain identities that manifest as sexism, ethnocentrism, racism, heterosexism and oppression that rationalize aggression and inequality. Violence in its many forms and complexities surrounds us, yet the heart guides us. We have the power and freedom to choose. Blogger Anna Blaedel reminds us that
“Oppression and devastation come in so many forms, but so do resistance and resilience, nourishment and sweetness, togetherness and love. Creativity, too, emerges from chaos. The power of our collective care is ferocious …. With and for each other, we have what we need.”
Anna Blaedel
Let Us Pray
God of the vulnerable and oppressed, our world is submerged in hatred, war, and violence on our streets and in our homes, schools, and places of worship. We are weary of conflict and hostility, but peace and harmony seem out of reach. Holy one, have mercy on your troubled world. Neutralize the power of those who thirst for domination and control. Renew the energy and creativity of those committed to nonviolent resistance and change. Please give us the strength to refresh and renew as peacemakers and living signs of mercy.
Reflection Questions
- How do I foster peace within so that I am a model of God’s love and respect for diversity, especially regarding differences in religious, cultural, and political perspectives
- What opportunities to work for peace and nonviolence do I have in my community, church, and workplace?
- What are small acts of goodness I can offer that bring peace to others?
Hope In Action
We are urged to pray for world peace and become “artisans of peace.” To be a peacemaker means working for justice to improve the lives of people and the planet. This requires creativity and courage to overcome obstacles. Respecting the dignity of all people, especially the dignity of those who hold opposing views.
We need to examine our language and tone to ensure that we are speaking and writing out of love and Gospel values. We seek to understand by finding common ground and using that as a foundation to build a working relationship. Listen with attention and act with the intention of serving the well-being of others. Kindness goes a long way in opening the doors for thoughtful and productive dialogue.