‘Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.'
Philippians 4: 6-7
Christians are called to be peacemakers. Christian communities can reflect the Kingdom of God, displaying to the world the miracle of unity in diversity and the fruits of the spirit - love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.
In reality things are not always harmonious. Anxieties about change, unresolved differences or interpersonal animosities can give rise to conflict, in which the primary Christian duties of love and forgiveness are forgotten. A community which becomes a “house divided” can be an uncomfortable place of anger, blame and pain.
The Bath and Wells Peacebuilding Network was set up to support parishes in finding peace in situations where difference and disagreement divide a community and to inspire people throughout the diocese to play an active role in promoting peace in their communities.
More details about the Bath and Wells Peacebuilding Network can be found here.
The network is guided by Simon Keyes, as Diocesan Peacebuilding Adviser.
If you would like to find out more about the network or asking for support with building peace in your context, please contact one of the people below.
Who to contact
Simon Keyes, Diocesan Peacebuilding Adviser
Caroline Bruce, Deanery and Parish Adviser (Wells) Peacekeeping Advocate