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.
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.
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.
Do Not Give Peace a Chance
April 28, 2010 by |
In a Wall Street Journal editorial this week (Peace Processes Never Work), Bret Stephens argues that many if not most high profile peace efforts fail. The facts cited in the article seem imply or even prove that peacemaking is a mostly futile endeavor.
But You Promised!
April 8, 2010 by |
When we pop the hood and peer into the engine of hostility driving a conflict it pays for us to look closely for disappointed expectations. Typically, at the heart of conflict we find broken dreams and dashed hopes.
Restorative Justice
January 30, 2010 by |
This past week, I returned to the Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution at Pepperdine University Law School, where I earned a Masters in Dispute Resolution, for an event co-hosted by the prestigious Nootbaar Institute on Law, Religion, and Ethics.
Making Decisions
January 9, 2010 by |
A mediator facilitates a process the parties consider fair and just; a mediator encourages candor and respect between parties; and he fosters a collaborative approach to satisfying party interests. Nonetheless, the outcome may be sabotaged by flawed decision-making.
Listening to the Story
December 18, 2009 by |
People love stories. We flock to the cinema to experience vicarious thrills, we seek the escape a novel can provide, and we find ourselves glued to the television, mesmerized by scripted drama or unscripted “reality.”
And You Said…
November 16, 2009 by |
A big “thanks” to all who responded to our recent survey. Your responses will help us design our services for 2010.
Humor and Holiness
My last series of posts tackled a difficult subject. When we analyze the role we should play in a divisive and contentious political world we can experience conflict. We wish for peace but also desire justice, and the two desires sometimes clash.