Promotion of Peace, Nonviolence, and Disarmament

“Only a humanity in which there reigns the ‘civilization of love’ will be able to enjoy authentic and lasting peace.” –Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church, #582

white candles on black surface in shape of peace symbol promoting a nonviolent approachThe common good and human flourishing can only be fully attained when all human community members can live without violence and with a peace based on social justice.

Discover a robust collection of resources that illuminate the Catholic Social Teaching themes of peace, nonviolence, and disarmament. Rooted in the Gospel call to be peacemakers, these materials inspire individuals and communities to work toward justice, reconciliation, and the elimination of violence in all its forms.

EFJ Resources on Peace, Nonviolence, and Disarmament

  • Faith-Based Reflections and Prayers: Spiritual resources to guide contemplation and action on building a culture of peace and nonviolence.
  • Lesson Plans and Educational Tools: Engaging materials that explore the Church’s teaching on peace, the ethics of disarmament, and the power of nonviolent action.
  • Multimedia Resources: Inspiring videos, stories, and infographics that highlight real-world efforts to promote peace and reduce conflict.
  • Advocacy Guides: Practical steps for advancing justice, supporting disarmament efforts, and fostering reconciliation in divided communities.

These resources help connect faith with action, equipping individuals to engage with the pressing challenges of violence and conflict through the lens of Catholic Social Teaching. Whether used in classrooms, parishes, or advocacy work, these tools support a deeper commitment to peacebuilding and the promotion of human dignity.

Prayer

JRS: Prayer for Myanmar

The JRS Prayer for Myanmar uplifts prayers of justice and peace for the people of Myanmar in this time of violence and unrest. To learn more about the ongoing conflict, please...
Prayer

A Prayer for Peace in Ukraine

This prayer asks the Prince of Peace to provide comfort to the people of Ukraine and that the people of Russia meet the demand for peace.
Video

A Prayer for Peace in the New Year

As we enter a new year with so many challenges, this one-minute video prayer asks that we do God's will by being peacemakers who bring peace and justice to our suffering world. This prayer...
Prayer

Prayer for Epiphany

As we conclude the Christmas season by celebrating Epiphany on January 6, we are invited to move beyond darkness to a deeper sense of the possibilities of the kingdom of God, justice, and peace.
Prayer Service

Prayer Service in a Time of War

The updated version of the resource is a general prayer for peace during war, while the original resource has a special focus on the war in Iraq.
Prayer

Prayer for the Epiphany 2021

This prayer for Epiphany invites us to open our longing hearts to the Holy Family and to recognize today's migrants as holy families. May the light of Epiphany bless us with a vision of a just and...
Film Discussion Guide

John Lewis: Good Trouble

This film discussion guide provides questions to go along with the documentary about civil rights leader John Lewis. Topics covered include commitment to Nonviolence, voter rights, and the role of...
Prayer

Prayer for Reconciliation

We pray for personal healing and reconciliation so that we can work to address the divisions in our world. We ask for God's grace to see no boundaries and pray that all of creation be united in...
Reflection

Just Music Playlist: Peace

The Just Music Playlist provides a list of songs with discussion questions about a particular theme. The theme for this month’s playlist is peace.
Book Discussion Guide

Book Review: They Will Inherit the Earth

In this book review and reflection, learn about  John Dear 's new book in which he explores what it means to "inherit the earth" and to be peaceful in a time characterized by climate change.
Prayer

Muslim, Jewish, and Christian Prayer for Peace

This interfaith "Prayer for Peace" calls Muslims, Jews, and Christians to join hands in friendship and to seek the way of peace together.
Dove with olive branch
Reflection

Signs of the Times: From Just War to Just Peace

Read about the biblical call to follow Jesus as peacemakers and a recent meeting at the Vatican to discuss the role of peace and non-violence in the Church today.