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.

Last Days in Vietnam

Rory Kennedy’s documentary Last Days in Vietnam provides a closer look at the chaotic events of the final days of the Vietnam War. The film includes interviews by individuals who were present and...

Bonhoeffer

“Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Pacifist, Nazi Resister” is a documentary that explores the complex story of Pastor Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Our discussion questions invite viewers to apply lessons from his...

A Call to Disarm

Prayer Service
Disarmament Week is held October 24-30. This prayer weaves the challenge of scripture and the call of the church to turn our focus from the weapons of war to the ways of peace.

Conscientious Objection Study Unit

Conscientious objection is a response people can choose when weighing their involvement in armed conflict. This resource explores Just War Theory and pacifism, with an in-depth look at a film which...

Prayer Service for a Resolution to Conflicts around the World

Prayer Service
This five-page service for the resolution to conflicts around the world commences under the guidance of a child with the invitation to see the destruction of war and violence through his eyes. It...

United in One Voice: No to Violence, No to Hate

Prayer Service
This five-page prayer service features the voices of interfaith religious leaders calling for calm amid protests which have flared in Libya, Yemen, Afghanistan, Tunisia, Iraq, Iran, and other...

Prayer Service: International Day of Peace

Prayer Service
The International Day of Peace is commemorated on September 21st each year. This prayer service reminds us that we are all part of one human family, and asks us to commit ourselves to the realization...

Prayer Service to Mark the Anniversary of the War in Iraq

Prayer Service
As of March, 2009, more than 4,250 American soldiers have died since the start of the Iraq war on March 19, 2003. The numbers of Iraqis who have died is estimated to be over 1.3 million. More than...

Prayer Service for Peace in Kosovo and Serbia

Prayer Service
On February 17, 2008, Kosovo declared independence from Serbia. Since 1999 Kosovo has had no official status as a region, territory, or country as a result of the 1991 breakup of the former communist...

The Amish: Nonviolence confronting Violence (Discussion Guide & Charts)

Lesson Plan
After a deadly attack on an Amish schoolhouse on October 2, 2006 by a gunman, the Amish refused to take part in the cycle of violence and instead forgave their perpetrator. Their reaction has been...

Litany for Memorial Sunday

Litany
This litany is for Memorial Sunday, which commemorates the bombings at Hiroshima and Nagasaki.  

Remembering Hiroshima Day (August 6)

Prayer Service
This litany is to remember Hiroshima Day.