Circles for Peacemaking You have probably heard of at least some of the elements that go into peacemaking circles and perhaps you have used some of them in discussion groups or decision-making exercises. The elements - a talking piece, a facilitator or keeper, guidelines that all agree on, and consensus decision-making - are simple; used together they create a powerful and effective way to make decisions, do restorative justice, and build community. Circles can be used for purposes such as community-building, healing, decision-making, transforming conflict, celebration, and more. In some communities, courts will participate in restorative justice circle processes to decide on sentencing for certain types of crimes. Some schools use circles to handle school discipline. Circles have been effective in working with rival gangs to reduce violence. The circle process draws directly from the traditions of indigenous people who use a ...
We are faith leaders representing many different traditions and congregations who seek to promote understanding, dialogue, and common purpose in our community. This space offers members of our association an opportunity to share reflections with the broader community. The writings represent our individual views, not the positions of the Association or of our respective congregations. We aim to model dialogue that welcomes a diversity of ideas and perspectives grounded in friendship and respect.