In this post I continue to analyze the potential adverse consequences that accrue to political activism, consequences that may cause us to depart, inadvertently, from the charism of Francis.
Resurrection Politics and Rules for Radicals
June 15, 2010 by |
In this and the two posts that follow, I take a closer look at liabilities that accrue when Franciscans turn to political activism. This critique was written as a contemplative exercise, an attempt to understand the role best suited to the charism of Francis.
Facilitating Engagement & Dialogue
June 14, 2010 by |
In the presence of a mediator such as St. Francis, skilled at facilitating engagement and dialogue, this axiom rings true. However, human engagement and dialogue alone does not guarantee an opportunity to promote peace.
Saint Francis of Assisi: Mediator or Political Activist? Part 3
June 10, 2010 by |
In the previous posts I argued Francis was more likely to act in the tradition of the Great Mediator, Christ, than he was to become a political activist. Francis’ activism, I concluded, would be limited to advocating for a gospel life, not for politics.
Saint Francis of Assisi: Mediator or Political Activist? Part 2
June 8, 2010 by |
In the previous post I asked the question: Francis: Mediator or Activist? In this continuation of the series I take a closer look at Francis in the role of mediator and in the role of advocate.
The Humility and Poverty of St. Francis
June 2, 2010 by |
St. Francis, often called the Universal Brother, addressed challenges that commonly arose in other cultures as well. For example, problems Francis addressed through humility and poverty were addressed in the Buddhist tradition through the practice of “cessation of attachment.”
The Patience of Clare
May 24, 2010 by |
Have you ever noticed how a lesson you don’t learn the first time keeps coming back? and back? and back? One lesson I think Someone is trying to teach me is what I should do when other people don’t do what I want.
Ask for Peace, Do Not Feel Insignificant
April 29, 2010 by |
The work of conflict resolution sometimes places us in situations that call upon us to invite and implore and beg those with overwhelming power to engage with us, on behalf of our clients, in the peacemaking process.
Engaging Interfaith Dialogue
April 29, 2010 by |
Religion can be a powerful force for peace; it can also motivate division and hostility. St. Francis, frequently called the Universal Brother, was particularly successful in interfaith dialogue, as documented in the story of his meeting with the Sultan Malik al-Kamil.
Beyond Corruption and Deception
In this post, the last in the series, I continue to evaluate the risks of activism while suggesting that a mediator role allows us to better realize the charism of St. Francis.