Congregation Pledge of Nonviolence
Making peace must start within ourselves, in our families, and in our congregation. Each of us, members of ______________________________, commit ourselves as best we can to become nonviolent and peaceable people.
Respect Self and Others
To respect myself, to affirm others and to avoid uncaring criticism,
hateful words, physical attacks and self-destructive behavior.
Communicate Better
To share my feelings honestly, to look for safe ways to express my anger,
and to work at solving problems peacefully.
Listen
Carefully
To listen carefully to one another, especially those who disagree with me,
and to consider others' feelings and needs rather than insist on having my own way.
Forgive
To apologize and make amends when I have hurt another,
to forgive others, and to keep from holding grudges.
Respect Nature
To treat the environment and all living things with respect and care.
Recreate Nonviolently
To promote athletic and recreational activities that encourage cooperation
and to avoid social activities that make violence look exciting, funny or acceptable.
Act
Courageously
To challenge violence in all its forms whenever I encounter it, whether at
home, at work, in the congregation, or in the community, and to stand with others
who are treated unfairly.
"Eliminating violence, one congregation at a time, starting with our own."
Institute for Peace and Justice
475 East Lockwood Ave., St. Louis, MO 63119
Phone: (314) 918-2630 --- Fax: (314) 918-2643
Email: ppjn@aol.com --- Web site: www.ipj-ppj.org