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Friday, September 21st is the International Day of Peace. As we look around the world, we see far too little peace, far too much war, and the possibility of still more war on the horizon.

Today we urge you, in Christ’s name, to take the time to prayerfully and seriously consider what has happened and continues to happen daily in Iraq, Afghanistan, Darfur and other places around the world, as well as what may be threatening to happen in Iran. Consider how we as disciples of Christ are to act and react to the seemingly endless hatred and killing.

Today we urge Christians to stand up and say, “Enough! No more!” Today we urge UCC congregations to become pro-active – to let all know that no longer will you stay silent for fear of causing upset, for what is at stake is much more than mere lack of conflict in our communities. It is time for our churches to live out the reality of Jesus’ statement “I came not to bring peace but division” by becoming one of the blessed peacemakers, of a real peace that is Just in God’s eyes, that loves our neighbor even when they are our enemy, and that values the life of each of God’s children over the desire to “not rock the boat” in our churches and in our communities.

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