"Join the two so long divided, knowledge and vital piety." -John Wesley
This study resource is written in a hurry in the aftermath of September 11, 2001 which has forever altered our understanding and ways of looking at life. However, certain Christian verities which are time-tested and chronicled in the Bible might help us understand life in this world.
Part I explores, in the light of the gospel, certain events in Jesus' life which can be called terrorist. The response of Jesus who became the Human One for us is worth looking into and emulating.
Part II lists some of the definitions of a very ambiguous term "terrorism." Readers view them through the lenses of the Stations on the Way to the Cross. Jesus goes through the agony of carrying his cross through these stations of terrorism.
Part III makes available to the readers some action plans which we can do as CHRISTMAS PEOPLE IN A TERRORIST CRISIS to address the root causes of terrorism. In short, Part II & Part III are interspersed with action plans, while discussing the problem, enabling us, a shaken people, to become a shalom people.
This little resource is an introductory piece. For weightier understanding of and insights into the definitions of terrorism, and deeper analyses of theological interpretations of it, readers have to go to academic resources. This booklet is written for lay people in a lay language.
May the Peace Child bless you with a deeper understanding of Christmas!
Glory E. Dharmaraj, Ph.D., executive secretary for justice education
Women's Division