As international conflict escalates, how would Jesus have us seek shalom wherever we stand? Join our expert panel of peacemakers for a powerful evening of stories, insight, and advice. 

‘Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God’ (Matthew 5:9) 

Scan the globe and you’ll find over 40 countries locked in conflict that destroys lives and devastates community and creation alike. Russia and Ukraine; Israel and Palestine; the civil wars in Myanmar, Yemen, Syria, Sudan, and Ethiopia; terrorist insurgencies in Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo; and border conflicts between Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India.  

If we broaden the lens beyond regional conflicts, we find increasingly hostile relations between NATO and the Western bloc on the one hand and the strengthening axis of Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea on the other. Much like in the early 20th Century, many warn that we are once again stumbling into world war.  

As followers of Jesus, the Prince of Peace, is his church ready for the complex task of peacemaking in wartime, starting right where we are in our daily lives?   

That’s what this Wisdom Lab is all about. On the night, we’ll hear from some brilliant peacemakers – in politics, military strategy, diplomacy, academia, church leadership training, and high school teaching – each squarely facing war’s consequences in their local context in a Christlike way. 

We’re all interconnected, standing on common fault lines. Though the UK is currently far removed from the active battle-zone, hatred can still erupt in our neighbourhoods – whether it’s kids repeating their parents’ prejudice in the classroom, job shortages driving anger at immigrants, or isolated acts of terror bringing violence to the innocent.  

So what does it mean to seek an end to hostility and help others flourish in right relationship with God and each other, on our own contested bit of the planet?  

During this thoughtful discussion, through evidence-based insights and honest dialogue, we’ll be challenged and inspired to seek shalom starting right where we are, maximising peace and minimising unnecessary force. Because in the power of the Spirit, we can be a sign of how the world will look when all is set right.  

Join the conversation as we seek a wise way forward together. 

This event will build on a four-part article series written by the speakers. Keep an eye on LICC’s blog to read them as they’re released.