Peace Education
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Agape-Satyagraha:
Leadership Training in Conflict Resolution and Social Change |
Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you. -- Jesus
Be the change you wish to see. -- Gandhiji
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On Earth Peace and Brethren Community Ministries (Harrisburg, PA) are partnering to develop and expand “Agape-Satyagraha,” a leadership training program for youth teaching skills for conflict resolution and social change based on the nonviolent teachings of Jesus and Gandhi. Encouraging, equipping, and accompanying youth as they put their faith into practice as leaders in their communities, Agape-Satyagraha trains youth to resolve conflicts without violence. The program mentors youth (ages 11-18) through five levels of skills training. Adult volunteers coach youth individually or in small groups, using individualized techniques, allowing youth to pace themselves through each level.
Levels
- White Level- Understanding conflict escalation.
- Green Level- Anger management.
- Blue Level- De-escalating conflicts.
- Brown Level- Dynamics of power in conflict.
- Black Level- Negotiation and mediation skills.
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History
In 2001, the program was developed by Brethren Community Ministry’s director Gerald Rhoades in response to school shootings sweeping the country at that time. “Youth need alternatives to solving conflicts rather than fighting,” Gerald reflected. From its beginning, 120 youth have visited the program at the Harrisburg First Church of the Brethren site with eight completing the three-year program, and many others advancing through various levels. |
How To Get Involved:
Pilot Sites
On Earth Peace is seeking pilot sites which will host Agape-Satyagraha and work closely with On Earth Peace as the program develops. Pilot sites will commit to host an Agape-Satyagraha training site, recruit leadership and network in the community to invite youth participants, and work closely with On Earth Peace and Brethren Community Ministries (BCM) as we continue to evaluate and develop the program and curriculum. (Some sites may choose to provide food and go on outings with the youth as part of the program; sites are encouraged to consider budgeting for these activities.) On Earth Peace and BCM will in turn provide pilot sites with the curriculum and support needed to make this program a success including training for leadership, resources for the program, networking with Agape-Satyagraha sites in multiple locations, and regular check-in calls.
Prayerfully consider whether this program might fit into your ministry with youth. If you are interested in becoming a pilot site of Agape-Satyagraha or would like more information about this program, please contact Marie Rhoades at peace-ed@onearthpeace.org or call 717-917-9392.
Click Here for Frequently Asked Questions
Financial Gifts
On Earth Peace has been awarded a matching grant of $12,500 by the Shumaker Foundation. In order to receive the funding for this program, we are seeking new and increased gifts to support our ministries.
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