The Peacemaking and Race Relations Panel of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland has acknowledged the growing racist violence in Ireland recently and is keen to tackle this problem with practical solutions. A peace conference entitled 'Lost in Transition' will be held on Saturday 20 November in the Lansdowne Hotel, Antrim Road, Belfast from 9.45am to 2.00pm.
"We understand peacemaking to be an affirmation and accommodation of diversity." (The Church's Peace Vocation Statement). It is now ten years since this statement was adopted by the General Assembly and although at the time its focus was on the sectarian divisions in our society, it is recognised that there is now an increasing need to re-evaluate its application to all aspects of peace. Both parts of this island are becoming much more multi-ethnic and multi-cultural and escalating reports of racially motivated attacks in our communities indicate that Ireland has become lost in this transition.
The 'Lost in Transition' conference aims to encourage Presbyterians to explore the issues involved in peacemaking and race relations in Ireland. There will be opportunities to examine the Biblical teaching on diverse communities as well as share practical ideas about how congregations can tackle the relevant issues in their area. There will also be a chance to listen to the experiences of those who have come to Ireland from other contexts and learn from their perspectives on building a life here.
In September 2004, Presbyterian Moderator Dr Ken Newell highlighted the growing urgency for Presbyterians to take action against racism in our land and urged congregations to become 'centres of hospitality' for the stranger in our midst, of whatever race, colour, religion or nationality. It is hoped that this conference will provide practical help for congregations to move forward in action so that 'centres of hospitality' will become a reality for the Presbyterian Church in Ireland.
Issued by Sarah Harding, Presbyterian Information Services. Info@PresbyterianIreland.org
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