Can we still draw guidance from the Sermon on the Mount today? Yes, say the authors of this treatise on peace. Because the Sermon on the Mount is compatible with modern peace research. In particular, the concept of the Logic of Peace points to ways how conflicts can be resolved through diplomacy and civil conflict resolution as well as how wars could be prevented. A well-informed analysis of the West's negative role in the escalation of the war in Ukraine clearly illustrates that the "log in one's own eye" at the political level.
This ecumenical treatise on peace provides Christians and humanists a clear ethical orientation toward peace. It calls on us, in times of massive rearmament, to unequivocally advocate for military disarmament and for all states to the UN Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons. Churches, in particular, can be a strong, clear voice for peace and to help build a culture of peace.
"The Church should, in its proclamation and pastoral care - and also in political ministry, think beyond what the powers of the world are capable of. That is why even the visionary title of the Ecumenical Peace Document - If you want peace, go and talk to your enemy! - is so encouraging." (Horst Scheffler, retired Chief Military Chaplain)
"This peace treatise provides guidance in the best sense of the word: clear in its stance, understandable in its language, well-structured, and free of political and theological contortions." (Elisabeth Freise, Member: "Rethinking Security" Coordination Group)
"Something very good has been created here! I find a clear structure and, even more importantly, a clear language. This makes the peace document useful on the long run in many different contexts - for example, in religious education or in non-church-based peace initiatives. And the long-term use and impact are more important than short-term attention. But of course, the two aren't mutually exclusive!" (Markus Weingardt, peace and conflict researcher)
edition pace: special issue, in cooperation with the
Ecumenical Institute for Peace Theology
