Many people love Henri Nouwen and quote him often. He is known as the famous Catholic priest that addressed in many of his writings the spiritual practices of the Christian life. He is placed, in many people’s minds, in the bucket of one of those contemplatives. Perhaps known more forContinue Reading
(5 min. read. But it might require more time if you consider the invitation). Upcoming Opportunities for 2020 (so far). This is why I need your support: A new collaborative effort with Love Mercy Do Justice of the Covenant Church. This is an experiential learning (<–click fmi) opportunity, helping churchesContinue Reading
Philosophy behind “Blessed Are The Peacemakers” Movie and my larger work in Visual Peacemaking Throughout history people have fallen into the trap of making enemies with, demonizing, stereotyping, and fighting the “other.” There has been a flood of conflicts based on ethnic, cultural, and religious identity in the post-cold warContinue Reading
“Peacemaking is a divine work. For peace means reconciliation, and God is the author of peace and of reconciliation. It is hardly surprising, therefore, that the particular blessing which attaches to peacemakers is that “they shall be called children of God.” For they are seeking to do what their Father hasContinue Reading
I just got off the phone after an amazing and refreshing conversation with Mark, one of my best friends from the last 5 years. Mark is in Boston now finishing his PhD in architecture at MIT. We became friends while he was in Seattle, finishing his Master’s degree in postmodernContinue 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.”
Website