Advertise on podcast: Proclaim Peace

In this special episode, we are sharing Patrick Mason’s workshop at the recent Restore event hosted by Faith Matters in September of 2026. He explains why conflict is normal, why contention is different from conflict, and how to start building a peacemaking toolkit instead of avoiding hard conversations altogether. In this session, he also invites listeners to think about one real conflict in their own life and begin with the first small step. The focus is not on solving everything at once, but on learning the language, methods, and inner habits that make peace possible. TIMESTAMPS: 00:09 Why peacemaking matters 05:14 Peacemaking 101: where to start 09:01 Reframing conflict as an opportunity 16:17 Seeing people as people 20:19 Choosing your theory of change 26:44 Cultivating inner peace For full show notes and transcript, visit https://proclaimpeace.org

Bethany Brady Spalding joins Jen and Patrick to explore the story of the daughters of Zelophehad in Numbers 27 and what it teaches about peaceful problem-solving, courageous advocacy, and collaborative leadership. The conversation centers on how asking a thoughtful question, offering a solution, and trusting the process can help change systems without defaulting to anger or conflict. Timestamps 3:52 - Bethany’s definition of peace: progress toward God’s vision 5:26 - Discovering overlooked stories of women in scripture 8:49 - The daughters of Zelophehad and their inheritance claim 12:45 - Moses as a model for listening and responsive leadership 15:07 - Finding possibility during seasons of change 17:15 - Peaceful advocacy and creating space for women’s voices 20:11 - Why collaboration strengthens peacemaking 23:31 - Building community coalitions through the Health Access Project 26:27 - Diane Nash and the power of a moral question 29:10 - Pairing hard questions with practical possibilities 33:35 - Navigating tension between preserving and changing systems 39:12 - Why Bethany approaches injustice one issue at a time 43:14 - Managing fear when speaking to power 45:00 - Bethany’s pathway to finding peace For full show notes and transcript, visit https://proclaimpeace.org

Emma Addams joins Jen and Patrick to explore the themes of peace, defiance, and civic engagement through the lens of the biblical stories of Vashti and Esther. They discuss how personal definitions of peace can shape one's actions and the implications of defiance in a patriarchal society. The conversation delves into the complexities of navigating power dynamics, the different theories of change, and the strategic use of managed compliance in effecting social change. They discuss the different forms of courage exhibited by both women, the importance of trust and proximity in relationships, and the complexities of navigating agency in a world with limited options. TIMESTAMPS: 02:08 The Story of Vashti: Defiance and Consequences 09:58 Esther's Entry: Navigating Power Dynamics 15:50 Theories of Change: Inside vs. Outside Strategies 21:16 Managed Compliance: A Strategic Approach to Change 25:57 The Power of Listening 29:09 Peacemaking: Vashti vs. Esther 33:50 Navigating Agency and Peacemaking 40:00 The Role of Trust and Proximity 45:45 Faith and the Cost of Peacemaking 51:20 Hope in Courageous Voices 54:37 Finding Peace Amidst Conflict For full show notes and transcript, visit https://proclaimpeace.org

Rev. Adam Taylor joins Jen and Patrick for a wide-ranging conversation about peace, justice, and the prophetic vision of Isaiah 58. He shares how his own faith journey, shaped by interracial family roots, the civil rights movement, and Black church tradition, led him to Sojourners and to a deep conviction that peace is more than the absence of conflict.The episode explores why justice and peace are inseparable, how Isaiah 58 challenges transactional religion, and what it means to become a “repairer of the breach” in both public life and personal discipleship. TIMESTAMPS: 00:54 - Peace defined as wholeness and right relationship 05:20 - The Jim Wallis course that led to Sojourners 08:59 - Why peace and justice belong together 10:06 - Biblical justice language: mishpat and tsedek 13:13 - Isaiah 58 in context: exile and true fasting 17:18 - Why injustice is structural, not just interpersonal 24:15 - Moving beyond zero-sum thinking 31:53 - Wages, land, labor, and other biblical justice issues 35:32 - Pastoral advice for people resistant to justice language 43:07 - How unjust systems advantage some and trap others 49:57 - “Repairers of the breach” and the call to peacemaking 52:48 - Breath prayer: “Be still and know that I am God” For full show notes and transcript, visit https://proclaimpeace.org

Elizabeth Davis Edwards joins Jen and Patrick to share inspiring stories of community-led refugee support and explores how welcoming strangers aligns with faith, history, and peacebuilding. This episode emphasizes that peace is cultivated through everyday acts of hospitality, community effort, and faith-based compassion. It encourages listeners to look around their neighborhoods for opportunities to serve, love, and welcome "one more." Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to peace and the deeper meaning of shalom 04:15 - Afghan families in Greece and their transformative impact 08:15 - The biblical call to remember and welcome the stranger 10:45 - Abraham’s hospitality as a model for modern welcome 13:01 - Reframing division through recognizing sacredness in others 16:46 - How communities can surmount "othering" and embrace shared humanity 23:29 - Gregory Boyle’s quote on human hospitality 28:56 - Opportunities for faith communities to actively participate in peacebuilding 33:31 - Personal peace amidst chaos and the importance of small, everyday acts of goodness 38:13 - Addressing misconceptions about refugee support and community capacity 44:24 - The faith perspective on resilience, hope, and trusting divine guidance 48:21 - Recognizing that true peace comes from charity, hope, and divine power For full show notes and transcript, visit https://proclaimpeace.org

Jen and Patrick are joined by James Patton to explore the multidimensional nature of peace, emphasizing its relational and movement-driven aspects. Drawing from his rich spiritual journey and extensive experience in peacebuilding across cultures and faiths, James offers nuanced perspectives on community, faith, truth, and conflict. They discuss the Old Testament idea of a chosen people, how that relates to diverse faith groups today, and how to avoid conflict when believing in chosenness. TIMESTAMPS: [01:36] The theme of chosenness in the Old Testament — beauty and tension [04:55] Introducing James Patton — career in religion, conflict transformation, and global peacebuilding [08:45] Defining peace: relationship, mutuality, and progressive healing over harm [12:19] James's path to peacebuilding — Peace Corps in Paraguay and the power of community [15:02] Faith journey: from Catholic roots to Quaker practice and interfaith work [22:34] Two models of chosenness — zero-sum in/out vs. inclusive divine invitation [27:30] Case study: reducing sectarian violence in Pakistan by elevating identity rather than erasing it [35:41] Truth, religion, and peacebuilding — static vs. relational understandings of truth [41:06] Navigating simple and complex worldviews — how different people hold truth [46:34] Integrity in practice — restorative vs. punitive justice, and the difficulty of living your values [50:39] Where James finds peace — Wendell Berry's The Want of Peace and The Peace of Wild Things Find more show notes and transcript at https://proclaimpeace.org

Jen and Patrick are joined by Sarah Perkins to explore the profound ways stories shape our understanding of peace, justice, and reconciliation. They focus on the contrasting peacemaking styles of Old Testament prophets Elijah and Elisha. Sarah shares her journey as a writer, filmmaker, and peacemaker, emphasizing the power of faith, imagination, and human connection in transforming conflicts into moments of compassion. Timestamps: (00:00) Introduction: The biblical and modern models of peacemaking (03:19) Elijah as a prophet of justice and the challenge of non-passive activism (07:44) The importance of speaking truth without contempt or dehumanizing others (11:27) How to be conflict-avoidant while still advocating for justice (15:35) The differences between Elijah's fiery approach and Elisha's humble miracles (20:14) The role of small acts of kindness in peacebuilding and social change (25:05) Using stories like "They that be with us" to expand moral imagination (32:10) Insights from international peacemaking efforts in Northern Ireland (36:29) The power of storytelling, especially in faith contexts, to foster hope (39:00) How children can inspire adults to love and imagine peace For full show notes and transcript, visit https://proclaimpeace.org

Marianne Viray joins Jen and Patrick to delve into the dynamics of conflict and peacemaking within leadership and society, drawing lessons from the biblical story of Jonathan, David, and Saul. They explore how leadership decisions can influence societal polarization and offer practical tools for engaging with leaders respectfully. The discussion emphasizes the importance of modeling civility and virtue in public discourse and provides strategies for individuals to break cycles of conflict. The conversation highlights the power of personal transformation, empathy, and community action in fostering a respectful and civil society. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction: Peace in the context of biblical conflict resolutions 06:39 - Navigating disagreement with leaders respectfully 15:34 - Disagree Better: reducing polarization through leadership modeling 23:17 - The basis of true peace: love, empathy, and recognition of human complexity 30:12 - The power of small, intentional acts in societal peacebuilding 38:32 - Engaging civility in city councils and local government For full show notes and transcript, visit https://proclaimpeace.org

Jen and Patrick are joined for a profound conversation with conflict transformation pioneer John Paul Lederach, who shares deep insights on peace, reconciliation, and the power of moral imagination rooted in faith and human connection. They explore the story of Jacob and Esau, why reconciliation is a horizon more than an event, and the four ways to use moral imagination to achieve reconciliation.  Main Topics: The biblical story of Jacob and Esau as a model for conflict and reconciliationDefining peace as relational, rooted in dignity, love, and justiceThe concept of moral imagination as a tool for peacebuilding across long-standing conflictsThe importance of interior work, ongoing forgiveness, and relational transformationPractical strategies: moving one step at a time, curiosity, creativity, and risking for peaceThe interconnectedness of faith, community, and peace effortsThe role of hope and multigenerational perspectives in peacebuildingFor full show notes and transcript, visit https://proclaimpeace.org

Terryl Givens joins Jen and Patrick as they explore how faith traditions, especially within Christianity and Latter-day Saint teachings, approach the difficult questions surrounding violence in the Old Testament. Terryl shares insights on understanding scripture, God's nature, and the path to peace amidst challenging texts. Main Topics: How do we define peace and its relation to faith, hope, and love?The challenge of violence in the Old Testament: historical context and theological reinterpretationThe Christian and Jewish responses to Old Testament violence, including allegorical and spiritual readingsThe influence of Marcionism and early heresies on Christian views of the Old TestamentModern approaches in LDS thought: biblical scholarship, spiritual discernment, and prophetic guidanceJesus' editing and reinterpretation of Old Testament scriptures, exemplified in Luke 4The personal and relational impact of understanding God's nature through scripturePractical pathways for faithful engagement with difficult texts without losing faithFor full show notes and transcript, visit https://proclaimpeace.org

Jen is joined by guest co-host Maybree Spilsbury and guest Réka Bordás as we explore the biblical stories of Abraham, Lot, Sarah, and Hagar through the lens of peacemaking, sharing practical insights on conflict resolution, boundary setting, and maintaining relationships amidst differences. Our guests, experienced in conflict transformation and peacemaking, offer valuable advice on fostering connection and peace in family and faith conflicts. Timestamps:  02:26 - Recognizing patterns in biblical conflicts and personal faith transitions 05:27 - Abraham’s story of migration and parallels to personal journeys 10:09 - Starting organizations to foster family reconciliation and peace 12:18 - Healthy separation and boundary setting in family conflicts 15:29 - Conflict styles: avoidance, competition, and collaboration 20:17 - The importance of maintaining relationships during faith transitions 22:08 - Healing grief and unspoken emotions at the root of conflict 23:49 - Differentiating peace from conditional agreement 25:22 - The role of self-awareness and community in conflict resolution 27:12 - Small steps like listening and vulnerability that promote trust 28:45 - Personal reflections on finding peace through connection 33:50 - Practical tips for loving family members with differing beliefs 36:17 - The transformative power of conflict as a path to deeper relationships 37:10 - Closing remarks and invitation to listen and learn more For full show notes and transcript, visit https://proclaimpeace.org

Patrick and Jen discuss peace and leadership with Rabbi Sam Spector through the story of Joseph. They explore the Hebrew concept of "shalom," meaning complete peace, and its relevance to personal and national contexts. The conversation highlights lessons from intergenerational conflicts in biblical narratives, emphasizing communication and reconciliation. Rabbi Spector shares insights on leadership qualities and the importance of challenging authority respectfully. He also offers practical advice on resolving conflicts through dialogue and understanding, providing listeners with valuable insights into fostering peace in relationships and communities. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 - Introduction to biblical concepts of peace and the story of Joseph00:55 - Historical context of Israel’s conflicts and peace treaties03:29 - The story of Joseph: favorite son, dreams, and family conflict06:14 - Intergenerational conflicts: Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and sibling rivalry14:53 - The brothers’ revenge, subsequent reconciliation, and lessons on dealing with jealousy20:12 - The danger of using peace as manipulation in relationships26:11 - Joseph's foresight, hope, and resilience in adversity31:53 - Free will, personal responsibility, and the potential for growth in conflict36:26 - Challenging leadership constructively and exemplars from scripture and recent history44:10 - Personal practices for finding inner peace and balance, including family moments48:39 - Connecting biblical stories to contemporary issues of peace-making and leadershipFor full show notes and transcript, visit https://proclaimpeace.org

Jen and Patrick are joined by Daryl Davis to explore the profound lessons of peace, unity, and diversity through the biblical story of the Tower of Babel. They engage in a compelling dialogue about how understanding, communication, and exposure can transform hatred into harmony. This episode reminds us that peace begins with understanding and that even in the most difficult conversations, empathy and exposure can open pathways toward reconciliation. Bridging divides is about listening, storytelling, and the courage to challenge our perceptions. Topics Covered: The biblical story of the Tower of Babel as a metaphor for human diversityThe importance of cross-cultural communication and understandingHow misinformation and ignorance breed fear, hate, and destructionDaryl Davis’s personal journey fighting racism and bridging dividesThe power of perception, storytelling, and emotional engagement in conflict resolutionPractical steps for building peace within oneself and with othersDiversity as a designed feature for learning rather than a flaw to be eradicatedCommunication as the most effective tool to defuse hostilityExposure and travel as means to broaden understanding and challenge stereotypesListening as a critical skill in addressing deeply held beliefs and perceptionsThe importance of internal peace as a foundation for external harmonyFor full show notes and transcript, visit https://proclaimpeace.org

Jonathan Walker (Jen’s brother!) joins Jen and Patrick in this episode as we dive into the profound and complex biblical story of Cain and Abel, examining themes of conflict, motives, and reconciliation from multiple perspectives. They emphasize that peace begins with understanding our internal motives, choosing accountability, and aligning with divine principles rather than external resolutions. Whether you see yourself as a Cain or Abel in daily life, this story invites reflection on the path of reconciliation and the power of Christ’s love to heal division. TOPICS: Distinguishing destructive versus constructive conflictComparing Genesis and Moses versions: perspectives and implicationsThe roles of Satan, God, and human agency in the storyThe significance of motives, sacrifice, and fairnessHow stories reflect and teach about violence and controlThe concept of "order" versus "chaos" Muppets and their allegorical presencePractical insights on avoiding escalation and fostering peaceLiving in Cain's world versus embracing Jesus's path of reconciliationFor full show notes and transcript, visit https://proclaimpeace.org

Melaney Tagg joins Jen and Patrick to share her insights on building Zion through peacemaking from her personal experiences with facilitating local community dialogue. She emphasizes the importance of seeing others as divine manifestations of God, the need for divine assistance in peacemaking, and the role of language in conflict resolution. The discussion also covers the Venn Diagram Project, which aims to bring together opposing sides to find common ground, and offers practical advice for everyday peacemakers. Ultimately, the conversation highlights the interconnectedness of humanity and the divine call to love and understand one another. Takeaways Peace is defined as sitting together in love and understanding.Humans are a divine manifestation of God's creative ability.Conflict is inherent wherever there are humans.Divine assistance is needed to see others as God sees them.Language plays a crucial role in how we perceive and engage with others.Building a refuge requires inclusivity and understanding of differences.Finding common ground is essential in polarized issues.The Venn Diagram Project aims to foster dialogue between opposing sides.Patience and understanding are key in the peacemaking process.True peace comes from recognizing the divinity in ourselves and others.For full show notes and transcript, visit https://proclaimpeace.org