The Peacebuilders Initiative Summer Program
The highlight of the Peacebuilders Initiative is the weeklong summer program. Learn the theology of peacebuilding, practice conflict transformation, develop leadership skills, experience hands-on ministry in Chicago, and live in community with other Peacebuilders on our Hyde Park campus in Chicago.
The Foundations of Peacebuilding
The Peacebuilders Initiative begins with discovering the theology of peace. We believe that as Christians, we all must first encounter the gospel teaching about peace, and then personally come to understand peace, forgiveness, and reconciliation even before learning the skills of conflict transformation and peacebuilding. But the Peacebuilders experience of learning is not just about reading and studying. Our faculty will challenge you and inspire you. The classroom will come alive as you encounter scripture, Catholic social justice teaching, cross-cultural dynamics, and sacramental theology. Gain a deeper understanding of how peace, forgiveness, and reconciliation are rooted in friendship and community.
Skill Development
Expanding on the foundations built in the morning, you will practice conflict resolution techniques and learn practical peacemaking and reconciliation from experts who will equip you to be effective Peacebuilders in your school, home, and community.
Real-World Peacebuilding and Ministry
In the afternoon, take what you learned in your morning theology sessions out into the real world. Teams of five Peacebuilders and two mentors will be sent to ministry sites throughout Chicago to see firsthand conflict transformation and peacebuilding. Work side-by-side with men and women who have dedicated themselves to this calling. You will be introduced to Catholic Christian peacebuilding and reconciliation that occur "on the ground" in urban settings. Witness for yourself the "living tradition" of Christian ministry and the real-life application of the theology of peace and justice.
Theological Reflection and Community Building
Christian ministry is centered in community; it thrives in people who enjoy fellowship and friendship with their brothers and sisters in faith. The Peacebuilders Initiative embraces and celebrates this truth.
Morning and evening prayer reminds us of God's presence in our lives and calls us to be open to the Holy Spirit. Each evening, you will meet in small groups for faith sharing and to reflect on the day.
Don't worry, we haven't forgotten about fun! Community building and social time with your fellow Peacebuilders are essential to this program. We give you plenty of fun activities throughout the week so that true friendship and fellowship can develop
