|
Christian
Peace Makers Visit Iraq
Cliff Kindy wrote the following
about his walk from Goshen Indiana to Columbus Ohio in support
of a Christian Peace maker's Team in Afghanistan. Cliff spent
Christmas Eve at Beacon Heights and he and members of Beacon
Heights met with leaders of the Fort Wayne Islamic center
on Christmas morning.
Pilgrimage
of Faith
"Some
trust in horses, some in chariots..." Where do we place
our trust? What are the consequences of seeking our own security
through the death of others? If we use the spiritual tools
of silence, song, prayer, fasting, listening and walking,
can we hear the voice of Jesus over the voices of fear, hatred
and revenge?
We
in the United States are in the midst of an unholy crusade
to end terrorism. the US bombing in Afghanistan has now killed
more civilians than were killed in the attacks in New York
City on September 11. What will this crusade do to our soul?
2000
years ago, in the land where "Pax Romana" ruled,
the angels spoke of a Savior, "Glory to God and on earth
peace." In a time of empire and occupation, the message
of the angels was, "Fear not."
In spite of sore ankles and cold weather we did complete our
Journey of
Faith to Columbus! We had from one to 46 people join us in
walking each
day and more excellent contacts in the 13 congregations, 4
denominations, that hosted us.
We entered Columbus as the attack
on the Islamic Center was making headlines. We were able to
join the Muslim community for Friday prayers and later for
a solidarity visit at the damaged center.
Our unscientific poll of people
who interacted with/responded to us on this trek would be
quite different from the polls which indicate strong support
for President Bush's Crusade.
The CPT delegation was able to
enter Afghanistan last week. It will still be some time before
we know if there can be, or should be, next steps for CPT
in that country.
Thank you each for the part you
played in encouraging and helping this action to happen.
Peace to each of you,
Cliff Kindy
|
