Pace e Bene

On May 13, ACWR (Archdiocesan Council of Women Religious) held a meeting at Mariandale Retreat Center featuring a presentation by Pace e Bene, an organization dedicated to fostering justice, peace, and the well-being of all through education, resources, and action for nonviolent change.

Sam Chawla-Rios, representing Pace e Bene, presented the unique work of this organization and its approach to navigating the complexities of working for peace. Sam explained the “two hands of peace.” One hand is raised to stop evil, refuse cooperation with it, and take a stance of nonviolent interference. The other hand is extended in love and compassion, saying, “I have faith that you can do better.”

Sam also spoke about the different dimensions of peace: peace within ourselves, with one another, within society and culture, and with the earth. He introduced the Gandhian “Iceberg” model, in which direct action is the visible portion, while constructive programs for peace and self-purification remain largely hidden beneath the surface.

The visible aspects include protest, safety teams, singing revolution, contact with government representatives, support for legislation, non-cooperation, boycotts, preparation for shutdowns, and illuminating injustice by speaking openly about it.

The less visible aspects include communication skills, empathy circles, active listening, and fostering the capacity to love through grief circles, where immigrants can express their fears and hopes. This work also encourages a shift in consciousness toward the “Beloved Community,” supported by art, music, and writing, such as Love Letter to an ICE Agent by Kaira Jewel Lingo. The hidden dimension also emphasizes peace within oneself through meditation, prayer, slowing down, limiting exposure to mainstream news, seeking out nonviolent news sources such as Nonviolent News, finding beauty, and continuing to learn.

Sam encouraged everyone to reflect on their own spheres of influence and to engage in this important work, recognizing its demonstrated effectiveness. 

How can you practice nonviolence this week?