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.

Aj Muste stands firm in the face of oppression as bystanders watch him chase after justice. Aj is a reminder of the power of nonviolence when trying to achieve justice.

Abraham Johannes “A.J.” Muste: A Gentle, Nonviolent Peace Agitator

Prayer Service
This resource draws on the wisdom and witness of A.J. Muste, a nonviolent activist who was influential in the global pacifist movement of the mid-20th Century.
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Peace and Nonviolence

Lesson Plan
This three-part lesson plan seeks to introduce students to various aspects of peace: theory, activists, movements, and nonviolent processes in countries around the world.
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Monthly Calendar: January 2017: Creating Peace Anew

Reflection
This month’s calendar offers daily reflections and actions to celebrate EFJ’s theme for the month of January 2017: Creating Peace Anew.

Peace

Toolbox
This collection of resources, both revised and new, expanded upon the theme of peace. Subtopics include nonviolence, pacifism, conscientious objection, and nuclear disarmament. Fact Sheet:...

Nonviolence: A Language of Love (International Day of Nonviolence)

Prayer Service
This prayer service, commemorating International Day of Nonviolence (October 2nd), reminds us that the language of the Gospels is one of love. Jesus chose to express this love through nonviolence,...

Monthly Calendar: By Practicing Peace We Become Better Citizens of the World (October 2016)

Calendar
This month’s calendar offers daily reflections and actions to celebrate EFJ’s theme for the month of October 2016: Creating Concerned Citizens.
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Monthly Calendar: Creating Peace in Our Communities and Our World (September 2016)

Calendar
This daily calendar offers suggested reflections and actions to celebrate EFJ’s theme for the month of September 2016: Creating Peace in Our Communities and Our World.
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Prayer for Peace in Times of Violence

Prayer
We pray for an end do violence and discomfort. We call upon God to make us agents of peace, to be peacemakers in the present day.

Nonviolence and Just Peace: Contributing to the Catholic Understanding of and Commitment to Nonviolence

Reflection
Creative Voice Judy Coode, freelance writer and former Pax Christi USA National Council Chair, shares a reflection on the conference “Nonviolence and Just Peace: Contributing to the Catholic...
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Film Discussion Guide: Voces Inocentes (Innocent Voices)

Film Discussion Guide
This striking movie tells the true story of a young boy in El Salvador who, during the country’s civil war, must choose between joining the military or the rebels. A synopsis, connections to CST...

Lenten Reflections 2016: Following Jesus on the Path of Nonviolence

Reflection
These 11 reflections are written by John Dear, a Catholic priest and world-renowned peacemaker and nonviolent activist for social justice. Father John invites all of us "to reflect on the nonviolence...

2016 World Day of Peace Message

Prayer Service
Sister Sally Ann Brickner, O.S.F. offers this prayer service to commemorate the theme, “Overcome Indifference and Win Peace” in Pope Francis’s 2016 World Day of Peace Message.