Blessed are the peacemakers

For this month's theology reading group we are discussing How Long O Lord? The Challenge of Reconciliation and Peace edited by Athena Gorospe and Charles Ringma [our group leader] and published by Langham Literature.
The book is based on papers that were delivered at a symposium at Asian Theological Seminary in Manila.

The book is a nice mix of perspectives, ranging from the theological to the very practical. Most of the authors are from the Majority World and/or are discussing Majority World contexts, particularly the Philippines. Given the tragic prevalence of war, poverty, ethnic conflict, and sexual violence, discussions of the challenges of practical initiatives to promote peace and reconciliation are to be valued. Some of the chapters that I found most helpful and/or inspiring were the following.

1. “Righteousness and Peace Kiss One Another” (Ps 85:10): Biblical Perspectives on Peace and Reconciliation
Christopher J. H. Wright

2. “What’s Your Name?” Biblical Perspectives on Memory and Reconciliation
Takamitsu Muraoka
The Japanese author describes initiatives he has taken in countries that experienced atrocities by the Japanese in World War II.

7. Telling a Different Story: Rwandans Learn to Forgive After Genocide
John Steward
This discusses why it is important not to ``forgive'' too quickly.

8. Healing the Trauma of War and Internal Displacement: Exploring the Nexus of Trauma Healing and Reconciliation
Annabel M. Manalo

9. Family Reconciliation among Survivors of Incest and Abandonment: A Case Study in Accompaniment
Tricia Mazo
This chapter has a ``yuck'' factor, because of the awful experiences of the young women that are described. On the other hand, it is powerful to see how on their own initiative the women saw the need to confront, forgive, set boundaries, seek repentance and reconciliation, while still seeking justice. The constructive role of counselors in helping each of the women on their difficult journey of healing is highlighted.

13. Missional Engagement for Reconciliation: Local Church Builds Relationships with a Muslim Community
Glicerio M. Manzano, Jr.