Paul Knitter Villagers of Chiapas, Mexico, mourned 45 deaths, the latest casualties in a long-running feud with paramilitary soldiers. But instead of seeking revenge, they pledged to continue pushing for equality and justice through nonviolent means. As Xavier University professor Paul Knitter prayed two years ago with the villagers and a group of world-renowned peace activists, he realized the lessons of Chiapas translate even to peaceful places thousands of miles away. Here we see a people caught in a brutal conflict, and yet their response to that is an example for us. They are committed to dealing with conflict bravely, yet at the same time nonviolently.
Event features interfaith prayers, rituals, songs, dances and stories of peacemaking efforts.
The Rev. Damon Lynch Jr., of New Jerusalem Baptist Church, Cincinnati, is the master of ceremonies. Other guests include the Peace Council, an international, interfaith group of leading peace activists. Open houses at 12 local temples, churches and synagogues, Saturday, starting at 10 a.m. The Jesuit priest graduated from Xavier University in 1933, and taught theology there for more than 30 years. In the classroom, on his weekly TV show, and on the streets, Father Brueggeman was a leader in promoting interfaith relationships.