The Swedish Fellowship of Reconciliation has awarded Justapaz, a ministry of the Mennonite Church in Colombia, the 2006 award for nonviolence in areas of armed conflict. Colombia has been devastated by decades of civil conflict among the Colombian military, leftist guerillas, right-wing paramilitaries, and drug traffickers of all stripes. Justapaz stands in the middle among other peacemakers as witnesses for peace.
“The accompaniment of the global family of faith has been crucial in raising awareness of the injustice suffered by the civilian population and publicizing the seeds of peace sown and lived out by the churches,” Janna Hunter-Bowman, documentation and advocacy coordinator for Justapaz, told Sojourners. “It helps keep these courageous peacemakers who confront death safe.” This marks the third time in two years that a Colombian Mennonite organization has received international recognition for its peace work. Justapaz stands for the Christian Center for Justice, Peace and Nonviolent action.
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