Theme: Building a Culture of Peace

The Youthnetters began stimulating and lively discussions on the issue of peace at the time of the impending war in Iraq. There were intense discussions. There were lessons learnt on respecting opinions amidst the diverse backgrounds that they were from.

There was unanimity in being on the side of Peace. They felt strongly that war could never be a solution to a problem. It would only increase hate, suffering, marginalisation and loss of innocent lives and destruction of properties.

One other key issue that emerged was the influence of the media on opinions and viewpoints on "war" and "peace". The Youthnetters were encouraged to critically analyse media reports and to seek out other sources of information, including alternative media to have a wider perspective and understanding of the various issues.

Prayers were also offered to the victims of war and violence and to the world's people to work towards peace.

As a Christian, ecumenical youth movement, the YMCA is called to commit actions for just-peace. The members asked themselves what they could do in the situations of war and violence in the world today. Youthnetters were urged to work for the release of those who are suffering and in pain, take the side of the oppressed, the weak, and the exploited and be their voices as they are seldom heard by the strong and powerful.

The Youthnetters called on friends and neighbors to join hands in praying for and supporting peace efforts. They hoped that together they could build a culture of peace with justice rather than contribute to situations of conflict and violence.

The following, based on Matthew 25:35, was quoted by a Youthnetter for reflection:

I was hungry,
and you formed a humanities group to discuss my hunger.

I was imprisoned,
and you crept off quietly to your chapel and prayed for my release.

I was naked,
and in your mind you debated the morality of my appearance.

I was sick,
and you knelt and thanked God for your health.

I was homeless,
and you preached to me of the spiritual shelter of love of God.

I was lonely,
and you left me alone to pray for me.

You seem so holy, so close to God.
But I am still very hungry, and lonely, and cold.

The Youthnetters affirmed that through sharing of ideas and information and awareness building, they could create a peaceful and harmonious world. They acknowledged and appreciated the initiatives of people around the world opposed to war and actively promoting peace and justice.

Click here for HIV/AIDS discussion at the YouthNet