The violence in this world hits hard in its immediacy, demanding attention as we scroll social platforms or television channels. When faced with heartbreaking images of death and despair, it can be difficult to remind ourselves that creation, too, is crying out for care. Yet creation care is not only a crucial component of our Christian calling, but an integral element of peacebuilding.
In this Taste of Peace discussion, we'll explore scriptural and theological evidence of God’s call for humans to live in right relationship not only with one another but with all aspects of creation. We'll also examine how combating ecological crises can help reduce international conflict and decrease systemic injustice. Finally, we'll discuss how taking steps to cultivate care for creation has a tangible impact, not only on the earth itself, but in our own lives, bringing joy, hope, and peace.
*This event is part of our monthly Taste of Peace series, where we offer introductory-level conversations about all things peacebuilding and explore something new every month. We hope you’ll join us for this event and other upcoming Taste of Peace events!
MEET THE FACILITATOR
Kirsten Schlewitz
Kirsten Schlewitz is a peacebuilding educator, digital activist, and creation care specialist. Her vision of a just, joyful world is rooted in the idea that we must build communities in which human and non-human alike are able to flourish, recognizing that all of creation is sacred.
After obtaining a JD in international criminal law, her worsening chronic illnesses forced Kirsten to come to terms with the idea that her lifelong calling to do justice and love mercy would need to be lived out in a radically different way. With Peace Catalyst International, she is able to pursue creative avenues of “sacred rebellion”: craftivism, guerilla gardening, digital community building, amplifying marginalized voices, reading as resistance, and more.
Her Substack, Be Gracefully Punk, is a composite of musings on these sacred rebellions and practical tips for how anyone can participate in peacebuilding. The Graceful Punks Book Club is an online community open to all who want to discuss the multitude of ways one can become involved in nonviolent resistance and social changemaking. In addition to collaborating with other PCI team members on peace education initiatives, Kirsten uses Instagram to raise awareness of issues related to chronic illness and neurodiversity, as well as shed light on conflict and atrocities happening around the world.
Originally from the Pacific Northwest, Kirsten now lives in Herceg Novi with her partner, Uros, and their two cats, all of whom are natives of the Montenegrin town.
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PCI's work, including events like these and peacebuilding work in our local communities, is made possible by the generous donations of peacemakers like you.
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