Conflicts as Steps towards Peace Des conflits sur le chemin de paix. Dix règles

Abstract

Christians have to fight! Yes, it is not possible to increase justice, peace and integrity of creation without conflicts and confrontations. Conflicts include the chance of improvements. But much depends on the way conflicts are solved. Violence is not a way to peace. Christian love enables individuals to distinguish necessary constructive conflicts from destructive conflicts. The article formulates Ten Rules for constructive conflict resolutions towards peace. 1. Ask the right questions. 2. Christian conflict resolution needs to integrate the New Testament perspective of reconciliation. 3. Intensifying a conflict is sometimes needed instead of calming it down too early. 4. In asymmetric conflicts, Christians have to stand on the side of the weaker. 5. To find the right moment (kairos) for refusal or acceptance of a compromise and for conflict or peace is crucial. 6. The transformative love of God is the benchmark for conflict resolutions. 7. Dialogue is an important instrument for conflict resolution, but one needs to carefully examine the conditions. Forming a counterpower may be necessary in some cases instead of dialogue. 8. Confess and forgive sins is an important way to conflict resolution. 9. Churches should not be blocked by their inner conflicts, but serve the world. 10. The larger the conflicts are, the more urgent is the interreligious cooperation in conflict resolution. 346 Global Ethics Applied This article was written as theological reflection for the annual ecumenical information and fundraising campaign of the large Swiss Christian development agencies Bread for all and Catholic Lenten Fund. 255 Almost all parishes in Switzerland participate in these campaigns. The author was member of the Theological Commission of the two organisations preparing the annual campaign before becoming the General Secretary of Bread for all from 1992 to 2004.