Building Blocks of Peace is a 3-month training course (Mar, Apr, May) + 3-month mobilization effort (Jun, Jul, Aug) that helps individuals connect with others in their community to get organized, become more equipped, and deploy local faith-rooted mobilization in places of need. This annual series continued on Saturday as people from across the city of Chicago and suburbs gathered on the West side in the Austin community for a morning of teaching, sharing, conversations, and connection.
Pastor Rob Stevenson and Pastor Cliff Kyle of Rock Church generously hosted the training at the Kehrein Center. Participants represented over 65 churches and 18 police districts. Many police districts have what is called a “Faith-based Subcommittee”, a monthly meeting of community stakeholders whose faith motivates them to collaborate for peace and wellness in the area. Many of those faith-based leaders and faith-based liaison or CAPS officers joined the training as well, so that we can all go deeper in relationship and collaboration. Geographic breakout sessions allowed participants to connect with others in their communities, as well as learn from local practitioners about how they can put faith into practical action. Topical breakouts over lunched provided a time for deeper discussion on topics such as Heal the Land, Love Listens, Love Your School, Seeking Justice in the Community, and “How to” Organizing Toolbox.
Session recordings are available at buildingblocksofpeace.com/videos
Ongoing faith in action and peacemaking events information can be found at buildingblocksofpeace.com/events
