Today, I’m struggling with my history and identity as an Evangelical. Many within our broader community are ready to jettison the title “evangelical” while others think we should align more with a conservative political movement that just helped win a national election. Honestly, this fact sends shivers down my spineContinue Reading
One of the things I keep running into when I speak to Christian audiences, especially when dealing with our Muslim neighbors is fear. This hearkens back to the nearly universal response to 9-11 when I was a pastor in a church. I found people in the pew at church willingContinue Reading
(some journal thoughts and questions from a few weeks ago) I need to visit my Muslim friends this Friday at the Mosque. Muslims are my friends and I need to stand with them in these times. I’ve got many questions. “Do they fear now more for their lives, their families,Continue Reading
Thanks for your interest in this year’s calendar. I’m looking forward to next year’s edition already, planning a few special photo trips including some hiking in the North Cascades. Keep posted. Until then, Know Peace yourself and Make Peace in the world and communities around you. Feedback is already comingContinue Reading
Two years ago at this time we were in our last stages of preparation for going to the Holy Land to film for our movie on peacemaking. The news was full of stories of violent confrontations and conflict. We were considering pulling the plug on our trip, consulting with friendsContinue 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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