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The annual "season" promotes peaceful ways to resolve differences — domestic, communal or global. Call (480) 948-7460 for more information.

Scottsdale is one of 400 cities in the country and 20 worldwide observing the annual Season for Nonviolence. The 64 day “season” is marked by the anniversaries of the assassinations of Mahatma Gandhi (on Jan. 30) and Martin Luther King Jr. (on April 4).

Inspired by St. Francis of Assisi, the 13^th century visionary who promoted peaceful co-existence with all creation, the Franciscan Renewal Center in Scottsdale will serve as local host for Season for Nonviolence activities.  

The season began with an opening prayer celebration last Friday featuring reflections on the wisdom of Mahatma Gandhi, Cesar Chavez, Martin Luther King Jr. and more. Pax Christi also hosted a session focused on envisioning a nonviolent world. 

The season’s events kick into full gear this weekend with a Franciscan Peacemaking retreat. It will be conducted by leaders from the Franciscan Action Network and Pace e Bene Nonviolence Service.

Events continue almost weekly through March:

For more information or to register, contact Bonnie (480) 948-7460 ext. 155 or bonnie@thecasa.org.

• 7 p.m. Feb. 12 — Biblical Principles of Nonviolence and Peacemaking.  Conducted by theologian and biblical scholar Rev. Vernon Meyer, Ph.D., examining how the biblical concept of Shalom and the invitation of Jesus might look in today’s world.  Part I of a two-part Principles of Peacemaking program.  Fee: $15 for Part I, or $25 for Parts I and II.
• 7 p.m. Feb. 19 — Theological Principles of Peacemaking.  Led by Rev. Vernon Meyer, Ph.D., investigating the Christian tradition of peacemaking and the concept of a “just war.”  Part II of the Principles of Peacemaking program. Fee:  $15 for Part II, or $25 for Parts I and II.
• 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Feb. 21— Nonviolent Communication: Communicating Clearly with Family.  Animated by psychotherapist and social action advocate Christine Dove, learning how to communicate effectively in tough situations with those who can provide the most challenges — family members. Fee: $75, includes lunch.
• 9-10:30 a.m. March 1 — Gospel in Action: Setting Our House in Order, Healing the Wounds of Violence.  Acknowledging the many effects of violence and learning ways to move through a process that brings healing of mind, body, and spirit.  Suggested donation: $5.
• 7 p.m. March 13 — Walk with Jesus: Stations of the Cross by Henri Nouwen.  Using reflections of internationally known inspirational writer Henri Nouwen to meditate on ways to unite the brokenness of the world with the suffering of Jesus.  Donations gratefully accepted.
• 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. March 14 — Taking it to the Streets!  A Day of Action and Reflection for Peacemaking.  Putting peacemaking into practice by visiting and working at local non-profit organizations whose mission is to break the cycle of violence.  Fee: $20, includes lunch and transportation to sites.
• 7 p.m. March 18 — Healing Mass: Healing the Violence within Us and Our World.  Joining hearts and voices in prayer to heal the violence within ourselves and the world around us.
• 10 a.m.-12 p.m. March 21— Peaceable Anger Workshop.  Led by licensed therapist Francesca Wolfe, exploring different and healthy ways to convey and express anger. Fee: $10.
• 7-9 p.m. March 27 — Voices and Prayers for Peace: An Inter-Faith Gathering in the Spirit of the 1986 World Peace Day in Assisi.  Closing prayer celebration. Blending voices with sisters and brothers of many faith traditions, joining in song, prayer, and stories of peacemaking.