In our work of faith-based reconciliation we utilize a number of distinct methodologies:

The Reconciliation Seminar utilizes a series of presentations to teach the core values of faith-based reconciliation, train participants in reconciliation/peacebuilding skills and provide a climate for the divine work of transformation in human hearts.

Seminar topics include:

• Introduction: The Journey of Reconciliation
• Reconciliation As A Moral Vision
• Building Bridges: The Principle of Pluralism
• Demolishing Walls of Hostility: The Principle of Inclusion
• Conflict Resolution: The Principle of Peacemaking
• Seeking The Common Good: The Principle of Social Justice
• Healing Relationships: The Principle of Forgiveness
• Facing the Truth About History: The Principle of Healing Collective Wounds
• Submission to God: The Principle of Sovereignty
• Finding Peace with God: The Principle of Atonement
• Becoming An Instrument of Reconciliation

Small group exercises include identifying core values, exploring collective identity, analyzing personal hostility toward others, analyzing the distribution of group privilege, learning conflict resolution skills, analyzing broken relationships, exploring the nature of offense caused to each group, conducting an honest conversation about the history of the region, developing strategies for healing and examining each participant’s sphere of influence for reconciliation opportunities.

The Service of Reconciliation is a ritual framework of bible readings, prayers, acknowledgements, apologies and expressions of forgiveness. Since a key objective of this work is the transformation of hearts and relationships the Service of Reconciliation is always a seminal event. All of our teaching and the small group exercises lead up to this significant moment.

The Learning Conversation seeks to create a facilitated dialogue in the context of an intractable identity-based conflict or problem. This approach consists of six steps:

• Sharing life journeys and building common ground
• Sharing perceptions of the conflict or problem
• Sharing an understanding of the nature of reconciliation in a particular conflict or problem
• Sharing where each has experienced and caused offense to the other
• Exploring settlement frameworks for living together or in proximity
• Exploring creative options and negotiating a mutually satisfactory solution to the conflict or problem