The Era of Reconciliation and Positive Change

Peace Start with Me - The Era of Reconciliation and Positive Change
March 8, 2025 Triangle Family Church

Photo Album

Music Offering

Speech by Rev. Levi Daugherty

In this thought-provoking discourse, the speaker emphasizes the intrinsic value of life and existence, drawing a parallel between the fundamental need for air and the pursuit of peace. The speaker reflects on the shared cultural and religious experiences that shape human perception, suggesting that the essence of various faiths ultimately converges toward a common objective—peace. Through anecdotes of personal cultural experiences, the speaker illustrates how deeply ingrained practices and beliefs affect interpersonal relationships. The discussion transitions into examining the concept of peace, both on a personal and universal scale, and posits that true peace must be cultivated on Earth before it can be realized in the afterlife. The discourse also explores the idea of divine principles governing existence, emphasizing that life is a delicate balance of give and take, akin to the act of breathing. By the end, the speaker calls for a collective effort to embrace and promote peace, acknowledging that it is a divine act that must be pursued actively in daily life. Key Insights

• Existence and Value: The speaker emphasizes that life’s value can be measured by fundamental needs, such as air. Without air, life ceases to exist, framing existence as inherently valuable and worthy of respect. This analogy serves to highlight the importance of understanding our interconnectedness and the vital resources we share.
• Religious Convergence: By examining various religions, the speaker suggests that despite cultural differences, the underlying principles often converge toward a common goal of peace. This insight encourages an appreciation for diversity while recognizing shared human aspirations, fostering dialogue and understanding across different faiths.
• Culturism and Its Implications: The speaker introduces the concept of culturism, proposing that cultural differences often lead to misunderstandings labeled as racism. This perspective invites listeners to reflect on their own cultural backgrounds and biases, promoting a deeper understanding of oneself and others, and encouraging empathy in cross-cultural interactions.
• The Nature of Peace: The discussion on peace reveals that true peace is a complex and often misunderstood concept. The speaker suggests that peace must be actively cultivated rather than passively awaited, emphasizing the need for personal and collective efforts to achieve harmony in everyday life.
• The Role of Heaven: The assertion that heaven is an ideal state rather than a physical location challenges traditional views of the afterlife. It suggests that individuals should strive to create a peaceful existence here on Earth, aligning their actions with divine principles to manifest a sense of heaven in their lives.
• Divine Law and Balance: The analogy of divine principles governing existence, particularly the act of breathing, illustrates that life is governed by fundamental laws that demand balance. This insight highlights the importance of understanding and respecting these laws, as they are essential for a fulfilling life.
• The Pursuit of Divine Peace: The speaker emphasizes that peace is not merely the absence of conflict but rather a divine principle that requires active participation. This understanding calls for individuals to engage in creating peace through their actions, encouraging a proactive approach to personal and social harmony.

Speech by Mrs. Beverly Yekeson

The speaker expresses gratitude to the event organizers and attendees while emphasizing the importance of International Women’s Day. She highlights the role of women and men as partners in fostering peace and community service. Drawing from her own experiences in Liberia, she reflects on her childhood during a tumultuous political period and the significance of community service in her journey towards inner peace. The speaker advocates for peace-building through service, emphasizing that it starts at the community level. She shares personal stories of her upbringing, the impact of trauma, and her commitment to help those in need. The speaker encourages everyone to recognize their unique gifts and utilize them to bring positive change to their communities. She concludes by calling for prayer and action for Liberia, stressing the ongoing need for reconciliation and support for those affected by conflict. Key Insights

• Significance of Community Bonds: The speaker underscores the need for knowing and connecting with one’s neighbors as a foundation for peace. This highlights the importance of local relationships in fostering a sense of community and support. By addressing the isolation many feel, the speaker advocates for active engagement and compassion within one’s immediate surroundings.
• Peace as a Personal Responsibility: The speaker reflects on her journey towards understanding peace, suggesting that it is a personal responsibility to cultivate peace within oneself and then extend it outward. This insight encourages individuals to take ownership of their contribution to a more peaceful society, emphasizing that true peace begins internally before it can manifest externally.
• Empowerment Through Service: The narrative illustrates how engaging in community service can lead to personal empowerment and fulfillment. The speaker’s story serves as a powerful reminder that serving others can help individuals find purpose and heal from their own traumas, creating a ripple effect of positive change.
• Storytelling as a Tool for Healing: The speaker mentions storytelling as an essential component of community service. Sharing stories can bridge gaps between people, foster understanding, and create connections that promote healing. This insight emphasizes the value of narrative in facilitating empathy and shared experiences.
• Diversity of Gifts: The recognition of diverse talents—whether through music, art, or direct service—highlights that everyone has something unique to contribute. This insight encourages individuals to explore their gifts and how they can be used to uplift and support their communities.
• Global and Local Connections: The speaker makes a poignant connection between her experiences in Liberia and the global issues of war and suffering. This insight serves as a reminder that while local actions are crucial, they are part of a broader global context. Encouraging individuals to think globally while acting locally can foster a more interconnected and compassionate world.
• Hope and Action: The speaker’s closing remarks about hope and action resonate strongly. Despite the challenges faced, she emphasizes that hope remains, and it is through collective action that communities can strive for peace and healing. This insight encourages resilience and proactive engagement in the face of adversity, reinforcing the belief that change is possible through concerted efforts.

Speech by Archbishop George Augustus Stallings Jr.

In this enlightening and passionate discourse, George Augustus Stallings Jr., founder and Senior Global Pastor of the Iman Temple African-American Catholic congregation, reflects on the profound concept of interconnectedness and spirituality as it relates to peace, reconciliation, and our shared humanity. He opens with the Hindi greeting “Namaste,” emphasizing the recognition of the divine within each individual. Stallings shares insights from his extensive background in the Christian faith, discussing fundamental biblical principles that highlight our unity as children of God and the spiritual essence that binds us together. He critiques the limitations of organized religion and stresses the importance of spirituality in understanding our true identities. Through scriptural references and personal anecdotes, Stallings calls for a return to the essence of love and connection, urging individuals to recognize their roles in fostering peace and community. The message culminates in a reminder that true change begins within each person, resonating with the timeless wisdom of figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Michael Jackson, who both speak to the necessity of self-reflection and transformation in creating a better world.

Key Insights

• Namaste and Spiritual Recognition: The greeting “Namaste” encapsulates the essence of acknowledging the divine presence in each person. This perspective encourages a deeper respect and understanding among individuals, fostering a sense of community and oneness that transcends cultural and religious boundaries. By recognizing the God within others, we cultivate an environment of love and acceptance, which is essential for global peace.
• Biblical Foundations of Unity: Stallings references Genesis 1:26 and First John 3:1 to highlight that humanity is created in the image of God, not in a physical sense but in a spiritual one. This interpretation challenges the narrow view of divinity based on appearance and emphasizes the intrinsic worth of every individual. Understanding ourselves as children of God can transform our interactions and inspire a collective effort toward unity.
• Interrelated Existence: The idea that all individuals are interconnected is a central theme in Stallings’ address. This interconnectedness implies that the actions of one affect the whole, underscoring the importance of collective responsibility. In a time of division and strife, recognizing our shared existence can motivate individuals to work towards common goals, fostering a spirit of collaboration and mutual support.
• Personal Responsibility for Peace: The call for peace begins with self-awareness and personal responsibility. Stallings invokes the song “Let There Be Peace on Earth,” emphasizing the necessity for individuals to embody the change they wish to see. By taking ownership of our actions and striving for inner peace, we can collectively contribute to a more harmonious world.
• Limitations of Organized Religion: Stallings critiques the shortcomings of organized religion, noting that it often fails to fulfill its original purpose of connecting individuals to God and each other. This critique resonates with many who feel disillusioned by institutional practices that overshadow spiritual experiences. Instead, he advocates for a return to spirituality that aligns with our inherent connection to the divine.
• The Essence of Spirituality: Spirituality is framed as a more profound connection to God and each other, transcending the rituals of organized religion. Stallings suggests that true spirituality fosters an understanding of our collective identity, enabling us to see beyond superficial differences. This perspective is crucial in healing societal divides and nurturing a culture of acceptance.
• The Mirror of Change: The closing message emphasizes the need for personal transformation, echoing the sentiment of Michael Jackson’s “Man in the Mirror.” Stallings encourages individuals to look inward and initiate change within themselves as a pathway to broader societal improvements. This powerful message serves as a reminder that lasting change is rooted in personal accountability and self-reflection.

Speaker discusses his commitment to peace and their involvement with an organization, which aims to promote a more peaceful environment in Durham through collaboration with law enforcement. The speaker expresses a deep longing for peace, highlighting the scarcity of discussions centered on this critical topic. He reflected on his transformative experience at an event dedicated to peace, emphasizing the importance of gathering esteemed individuals to share insights on God’s peace. The speaker concluded by expressing gratitude for the opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue about peace and how it can influence perspectives.

Q&A and Closing

In a compelling discussion, speakers reflect on their experiences with cultural division, the search for identity, and the quest for peace in a divided society. The primary voice, who identifies as a minister and social worker, shares personal anecdotes about growing up during Jim Crow and contrasts that with the current state of division in America. The sentiment is that, despite historical segregation, there was once a sense of community that seems lost today. Speakers emphasize the importance of understanding one’s identity, purpose, and destiny, suggesting that these elements are crucial for healing societal rifts. A recurring theme is the idea that peace begins within individuals, and that recognizing our shared humanity can help bridge divides. The discussion also touches upon the need to confront darkness within ourselves, as well as the collective responsibility to promote positive change and unity. The session concludes with a call to action, urging attendees to embody the principles of peace and love in their communities. Key Insights

• Historical Context of Division: The speaker’s reflection on their upbringing during Jim Crow highlights how societal divisions have shifted yet remain impactful. This historical context emphasizes the need to learn from the past to foster a more inclusive future.
• Community vs. Segregation: The speaker notes that, despite segregation, there was a sense of community that transcended racial boundaries. This suggests that today’s divisions could be bridged through community engagement and shared goals.
• Self-Reflection and Identity: The discussion on identity, purpose, and destiny reveals the importance of understanding oneself as a foundation for contributing positively to society. Recognizing one’s unique role can empower individuals to act with intention and purpose.
• The Role of the Church: The speakers discuss how cultural divisions, particularly within religious contexts, have contributed to societal rifts. This highlights the need for churches and faith leaders to promote unity and reconciliation rather than division.
• Confronting Darkness: The metaphor of “dungeons of darkness” serves as a powerful reminder that individuals must confront their internal struggles to promote peace externally. Acknowledging our flaws and biases is the first step toward healing.
• Women in Leadership: The call for increased representation of women in leadership roles reflects a broader societal shift toward equality. Empowering women is essential for creating a more balanced and just society.
• Collective Responsibility for Peace: The repeated assertion that “peace starts with me” reinforces the idea that societal change begins at the individual level. Collective action and personal responsibility are crucial for fostering a culture of peace.