A Resolution to Seek Shalom

We, the members of the First Church of Christ, Congregational (UCC) in Mansfield Center, Connecticut, respond to the call of General Synod XV of the United Church of Christ by making the following Resolution to Seek Shalom. We do so in the context of the Synod's affirmation of the UCC as a Just Peace Church. The Synod defines Just Peace "as the interrelation of friendship, justice, and common security from violence."

We recognize that when God's abiding presence is embraced, human well-being, or Shalom, which can be translated "Just Peace", results. Shalom is the vision which pulls all creation toward a time when weapons are swept off the earth and all creatures lie down together without fear, where all have shelter and dwell secure from want.

As a Church of Peace and Justice we commit ourselves to Spiritual Development, Just Peace Education, Political Advocacy and Community Witness in the following ways:

Spiritual Development We will nurture and support each other in our search for a Just Peace through prayer, study of Scriptures, theological reflection and worship.
Just Peace Education As there are no easy answers to the creation of a Just Peace, we will maintain a climate where all points of view can be respected, and all honest feelings shown in the search for new answers and directions. We call the Executive Council to establish a standing Just Peace Committee whose objective will be to provide information on Just Peace issues to the congregation including children.
Political Advocacy Recognizing that Just Peace is both a religious and a political concept we will encourage each other to be political witnesses. We call the Executive Council to appoint a representative to the UCC Peace Advocacy and Hunger/Economic Justice Networks to follow closely those political issues most critical to the development of a Just Peace and to alert us when it is most appropriate to write or call elected government officials.
Community Witness We will strive to make our convictions known throughout our community. We will help to shape public opinion about Just Peace. We will engage in evangelistic outreach, inviting others to join in our search.

In making this resolution, let it be known that we are a community of worship and celebration centered in the Good News of Jesus Christ and His message of justice and peace. We join our hearts and voices with those of the Benedictine Sisters who pray:

Lead us from death to life, from falsehood to truth.

Lead us from despair to hope, from fear to trust.

Lead us from hate to love, from war to peace.

Let peace fill our hearts, our world, our universe. Amen.