The Episcopal Ecological Network (EpEN)

Encourage Congregations to Adopt a
"A Pledge of Nonviolence"

Resolution A058

Encourage Congregations to Adopt a "A Pledge of Nonviolence"

Resolved, That each congregation of the Episcopal Church become a model for peacemaking in our violent society by encouraging its members to commit themselves to nonviolent and peaceable behavior in their relationships with others at home, at school, at work, at church, in the community, and wherever they find themselves; and be it further

Resolved, That every congregation also encourage its members to adopt "A Pledge of Nonviolence" as it comes from the Institute for Peace and Justice, St. Louis, Missouri:

• Making peace must start within ourselves. I commit myself to become, with God's help, a nonviolent and peaceable person.
• To respect myself, to affirm others, and to avoid uncaring criticism, hateful words, physical attacks, and self-destructive behavior.
• To share my feelings honestly, to look for safe ways to express my anger, and to work at solving problems peacefully.
• To listen carefully to one another, especially those who disagree with me, and to consider others' feelings and needs rather than insisting on having my own way.
• To apologize and make amends when I have hurt another, to forgive others, and to keep from holding grudges.
• To treat the environment and all living things, including our pets, with respect and care.
• To select entertainment and toys that support healthy values, and to avoid entertainment that makes violence look exciting, funny, or acceptable.
• To challenge violence in all its forms whenever I encounter it, whether at home, at school, at work, at church or in the community, and to stand with others who are treated unfairly.
• This is my pledge. These are my goals. I will check myself on what I have pledged once a month for the next twelve months, so that I can help myself and others become more peaceable people.

Author: The Executive Council: Committee on the Status of Women

Source: Archives of the Episcopal Church

The EpEN is a national network of active lay and clergy persons within the Episcopal Church, USA, who share a common concern for the environment and a common belief in the presence of God in all Creation and who work to make these concerns and beliefs known throughout all Provinces and Dioceses within the church. Members come from around the Episcopal Church USA. The activities of the EpEN are focused on the areas of Reflection, Education, and Action.

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