PEACEBUILDING EN LAS AMÈRICAS — In an atmosphere of fellowship and hope, the team of facilitators from the western region of Cuba held a productive afternoon of work. Gathered as a body, we recognized that our meetings are not merely an organizational task, but a space where the Spirit unites us, strengthens us, and helps us discover the stream of the power that transforms. The value of working as a team lies in knowing that we are brothers and sisters walking together—supporting one another and seeking creative, peaceful alternatives to the violence currently present in our communities. En un ambiente de comunión y esperanza, el equipo de facilitadores de occidente sostuvo una tarde fructífera de trabajo. Reunidos como cuerpo, reconocimos que encontrarnos no es solo una tarea organizativa, sino un espacio donde el Espíritu nos une, nos fortalece y nos ayuda a encontrar el arroyito del poder que transforma. El valor de ser equipo radica en sabernos hermanos y hermanas que caminan juntos, sosteniéndose mutuamente y buscando alternativas creativas y pacíficas ante la violencia que se vive hoy en nuestras comunidades.

AFRICAN GREAT LAKES — “I am so happy to be a member of the Peace Club at this library. As a mediator, I have gained knowledge and skills on how to resolve conflicts. At school, when disagreements arise, we are able to resolve them ourselves without having to involve leaders or parents.”

ASIA WEST PACIFIC — In March, the community Journaling activity gathered adults and children in Mayâ Learning Space, Bantayan Island, to tell stories of justice and peace, particularly. “A problem I solved nonviolently…” The activity has been an instrumental activity for us as a community in Bantayan Island to reflect on ourselves as an individual and as a community. It reminded us of respecting ourselves and others and treating each other as equals. There is power in choosing nonviolence over violence. By being present and by being a good listener for others is a form of nonviolence, which goes a long way especially when building and strengthening relationships within the community. Here are some reflections from the participants: