Annotated Peace Resource List

Perpetual calendar filled with a great collection of quotes: "A pacifist believes there is always an alternative to war." -Jeannette Rankin, the lone U.S. Congress member who voted against entering WWII. "There are two ways to get enough. One is to continue to accumulate more and more. The other is to desire less." -G. K. Chesterton. "Victory can be achieved by various means. It can be gained with tanks and missiles, but I think that one wins better with truth, honesty, and logic. This is a new weapon." -Lech Walesa.

Winn examines biblical passages that condemn violence and long for peace as well as those that tell of the wars of God's people and picture God as commanding war. Winn suggests an ethic faithful to the central thrust of scripture.

A history of pacifism and those protesting war in the US, from colonial days until anti-nuclear protests in the early '80s.

A good time-tested overview, though (first ed.) not in a format with "bells and whistles." Structured for twenty 45-min. sessions (totalling 15 hrs.), this curriculum refers to numerous case studies from history throughout, (interesting enough in themselves, and given with citations, though the one report of the Danish king wearing a star when Nazis ordered the Jews to--and every one else following suit--has since been found to be non-factual). Also includes several conflict scenarios for role playing and some cooperative games and group activities.

(Available from the Lombard Mennonite Peace Center: 630-627-0507. www.LMPeaceCenter.org, Admin@LMPeaceCenter) Conscientious Objectors from the Persian Gulf War and previous wars share their stories.

Provides insight into a little publicized aspect of the Gulf War -- its opposition. Interviews four men and two women who attempted to become conscientious objectors during the Gulf War. They joined the military for various reasons: to get a job or money for college, to fulfill a sense of duty, to "be all they can be." Their stories illuminate the transformations they underwent, from raw teenage recruits to responsible adults, willing to take a moral stand despite the personal consequences. Their resistance was met with threats ranging from dishonorable discharge to the death penalty. Raises critical questions for those considering enlistment, for service people contemplating conscientious objection and for anyone concerned with issues of militarism in a democratic society. For youth.

Six sessions about different aspects of the peacemaking life. Each includes a biblical dialogue, stories about peacemakers, biblical dramas, issues for discussion, and ideas for parents.

Available from MCC
Presents the stories of military veterans whose inner voice clashed with their military duties. For all, a deepening commitment to Christ's way of peace changed the course of their lives. Courage and God's grace brought healing and vision for the future. "What ultimately drove me from the military was the fact that I was trying to serve two masters and could not." -- Dick Davis, Dallas, Texas. Divided into five sections, each section may be viewed and discussed separately. Study guide included. Visit the website! [ www.mcc.org/us/co ] This video's companion website allows you to e-mail questions about military service, faith and peacemaking to veterans who are now conscientious objectors to war. For youth.

The authors, parents of ten, bring a unique perspective to raising children in an atmosphere of peace. Bob worked for many years in the armaments industry but they both became supporters of the anti-nuclear movement. This book describes their journey and challenges they faced in giving up a lucrative income from that industry. As a guide for parents seeking ways to teach a nonviolent approach to life, the book has much to offer. The authors make an eloquent case for a simpler lifestyle, one less demanding of natural and human resources. (From Hilma F. Cooper, Library Journal)

Roth offers clear reasoning and current examples in response to pressing questions of our day: What are clues to what Jesus would do in the face of swirling fears, anger, and helplessness after the attacks of 9/11/01? What was Jesus’ role in the maelstrom of first century Palestinian politics? Is the nonviolent way of Jesus completely unrealistic? Do Christians really have anything different to offer the world than strategies based on power and coercion? How might a Christian’s trust in God redefine allegiance to his or her nation?

Four chapters: The Cross and Violence, Christ and Power, Peacemaking and Economics, and Walking in the Resurrection in a Violent World.

Tells how Mennonites, Brethren, Quakers and other conscientious objectors stood for peace in World War II by participating in Civilian Public Service (CPS). Focuses on work in mental health institutions and tells how CPS workers' involvement in mental health profoundly influenced American society. For grade 10 to adults.

his is a bookstore catalog list dedicated exclusively to conflict resolution resources. There are over 300 annotated titles covering a wide range of conflict resolution topics. Subjects you can search include: Communication, Conflict Resolution, Cross-Cultural, Environmental Public Policy, Facilitation, Media and Conflict, Mediation, Peacebuilding, Community Justice, Religious, Schools, Separation/Divorce, Teaching/Training....

Available from the Lombard Mennonite Peace Center. (Available from the Lombard Mennonite Peace Center: 630-627-0507. www.LMPeaceCenter.org, Admin@LMPeaceCenter)
This video shows two TV spots that aired during the Persian Gulf War. One features the Mennonite response to war and the other is an interview with LMPC Executive Director, Richard Blackburn, on conscientious objection.

A family's frightening experiences when the government in Russia changes in the years after 1917.

This is a Bible study and journaling workbook for people exploring issues of conscientious objection to military service. Designed for individual or group study, or with a mentor. Also available as a packet of the book and information about Christian Peacemaker Registration (documenting your views on participation in the military with corroborating evidence from your life).

The lives of 8 people who hide in an attic for 2 years in Amsterdam to escape capture by the Nazis..

Dear’s vow was written in collaboration with members of Pax Christi of the Catholic tradition. After addressing violence and nonviolence, he explores previous vows to nonviolence, and reasons for them and implications. He follows with chapters on Gandhi and Jesus, questions for prayerful reflection, and scriptural passages on nonviolence.

What does the Bible say about violence and armed conflict? A discussion in 6 sessions of issues in the Old and New Testaments.

Examines the nonviolent philosophy of Dr. King and explores such topics as prejudice, racism, religious intolerance, and war. Lessons challenge students to evaluate their beliefs and behaviors while learning about the heroes of the Civil Rights Movement. Book and video.