Things are tense these days. This weekend I found myself the target of someone’s random anger on the street for a minor oversight exiting a supermarket parking lot. It’s hard to judge where this guy was coming from but in moments of aggression like this, the human being is wiredContinue 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
These are More Questions Related to our Study Guide and Movies on Peacemaking, focusing on “Why is There a Conflict.” Refer to study guide video #2 for exploring the questions below. Huda Giddens lived through the initial conflicts that led to the birth of the State of Israel. But asContinue Reading
There are few topics like “peace in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict” (or more broadly the Middle East) which elicit stronger opinions and deeply felt emotions. When you add the layers of religion, or even try to touch politics, it’s as if you’ve invited potential conflict from the outset. Yet, it isContinue Reading
Structure of a Group Session • Warm-up and introductions. Facilitator can lead introductions and work through the study guide intro materials (5-20 minutes). In subsequent sessions review what you looked at last session • Prayer for constructive conversation, learning and application (1-2 minutes) • Session video and discussion. Watch videoContinue 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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