Bethlehem is on my heart a lot these days. We have the special privilege of being there for Christmas real soon and plans are coming together to visit friends–Christian friends, Muslim friends, Jewish friends, Palestinian Muslims and Christians, Internationals. There’s a lot more to this demographic map of peoples weContinue Reading
When things seem dark I remember the truth of John 1:5 (“Light shines in the darkness and the darkness has NOT overcome it.”) from scripture which is an advent theme really. It’s a foundation for my thinking and way of approaching life and all our efforts in peacemaking. It’s aboutContinue Reading
I have a couple things to say today about my t-shirt and these stairs that keep showing up in my photos. 1. The artist who does the piece featured on my t-shirt is famous in Bethlehem where this image “melds street-fighting passion and pacifist ardor in his image of aContinue Reading
From early on in my life I knew I was called to a Road Less Traveled. This is kind of a prayer I whisper today to myself. Thank goodness there are those naps along the way. “Lord, set me a path by the side of the road. I pray thisContinue Reading
For more on Soulful Photography including tips and perspectives go here. Sunsets during the blue hour are some of my favorite moments in a day. Even better if shared with my honey. What is the “blue hour?” Glad you asked. The blue hour (from French l’heure bleue) is the periodContinue Reading
A Local Church Pastor
“Through personal storytelling, biblical preaching, and literally getting us out of the church and into a mosque, Andy walked alongside our church with the question, “Compelled by God’s love, what does it mean to love our Muslim neighbor?” Wise, gentle, and prophetic, Andy doesn’t just talk about peacemaking–he lives it.”Website
Lay Church Leader
“Andy spent a weekend at our church recently speaking about his bridge building relationships with Muslims. This approach resonates in contrast with so much media attention to extremists. It was a new message for a lot of our members, but they seemed willing to listen and be open because of Andy’s gentle and non-threatening presence. Now we can discuss this topic more freely and see our Muslim neighbors in a new light, building friendships as God leads.”
Professor of Reconciliation Studies
“We recognize you as an agent of change for reconciliation and an influential community leader. We’d like to invite you to influence the next generation of community leaders here at Seattle Pacific University.”
Pastor
“Andy Larsen recently gave a presentation and engaged our congregation around the question, “Who is our neighbor?” His knowledge and experience as a bridge-builder and peacemaker was evident as he encouraged us to look outside our normal circles of friendships. Andy is well-suited for this ministry as he travels effortlessly between Muslim and Christian communities and invites us to do the same.”
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