“The Challenge of Nonviolence in a Violent World: Creating a Culture of Peace: Training in Nonviolence for Personal and Social Transformation” is the title of a free workshop in nonviolence training that will be presented from 2 to 5 p.m. Sun., Jan. 29 in Nygreen Hall (Room 1) on the California Lutheran University campus, 60 W. Olsen Road, Thousand Oaks. The workshop is open to all ages.

Based on the concept of mutual mentoring, the workshop will combine perspectives from youth and elders as voices needed to create a culture of peace, according to Rabbi Lynn Gottlieb. Presenters include: the Nonviolent Youth Collective of the Fellowship of Reconciliation, Interfaith Inventions, and representatives from Latino Catholic, indigenous, Jewish, and Muslim traditions. Participatory exercises and drama will be offered “to practice dynamic approaches to facing violence with nonviolence” in addition to nonviolence training techniques.

Since 1919, the International Fellowship of Reconciliation (IFOR) has been promoting programs and activities for reconciliation, peace-building, active nonviolence and conflict resolution.  

Over the last year and a half, through the efforts of CLU Campus Pastor Emeritus Gerry Swanson, a Ventura County FOR organizing committee has been working to establish a local FOR chapter that will bring members together to organize for peace and nonviolence in Ventura County and worldwide.

The event is sponsored by the Ventura County FOR organizing team, CLU’s Office of Campus Ministry and Lord of Life Congregation. For more information, please call (805) 498-9401.