Peacemaking is a verb. It is active not passive. Congregations of many denominations extend “the peace of Christ be with you” with the response “and also with you.” Extending the peace of Christ is part of an active, engaged faith – a witness to what it means for us to be building the household of God.
In God’s house, there are people of every background, every race, age and gender. In God’s house, people who are different from each other, in almost every way, live together and seek ways to bring about the peace of Christ in every part of our lives. In our church gatherings, we practice offering Christ’s peace, trusting that the blessings offered will also be returned.
We take action today by offering a blessing of our own. Through participation in the Peace & Global Witness Offering, Hillside is extending Christ’s peace throughout our community and the world. Twenty-five percent of the gifts received will stay right here at Hillside to build God’s house alongside a chosen project. Twenty-five percent will go to support regional efforts in the Synod of South Atlantic, and 50 percent will go to the Presbyterian Mission Agency for its ministries of education and partnership with active peacemakers around the world, such as Peacemakers in Cameroon, where violence, conflict, and HIV-AIDS, are ways of life.
Please give generously.
Let us pray
Extend your peace to us, O Christ, that we might build places of kindness and generosity, reconciliation and compassion. May our gifts join our voices in blessing all of creation with your justice and peace, at all times, in all ways.
Amen