Brothers!
This coming [day/date] – as we gather at [start time] in the [location] – we’ll explore the realm of ‘Peace.’ What a beautiful thing we do at every Mass when we offer a sign of Christ’s peace to everyone. “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you.” (John 14:27)
When threats of war arise, we might immediately go to thoughts and prayers for peace. Yet, how can we have peace about the world stage when we are not able to have peace in our own lives. Are there situations you are dealing with, or have dealt with in the past that take away your peace? What thoughts come to mind when someone prays for your peace? When and where do you find peace?
Brothers [leaders’ names] will lead a discussion on ‘finding peace’. They will share recent experiences in their lives that have challenged their peace, and offer a few insights into how they have strived to regain the peace that God promises all. We also want to highlight an awesome resource, Searching for and Maintaining Peace, A Small Treatise on Peace of the Heart, by Fr. Jacques Philippe.
Father Jacques Philippe (born 1947 in Lorraine, France) is a renowned Catholic priest, author, and member of the Community of the Beatitudes since 1976. A former scientist, he was ordained in 1985 and specializes in spiritual direction, preaching retreats worldwide. He has written 12 books and sold over a million copies.
Below are a few scripture references that will help us frame the discussion – as we all search for peace in our hearts:
John 15: 5 – What are we apart from Jesus?
1 Kings 19: 9-13 – Where do we hear God’s voice…?
Romans 8: 31-39 – We can trust that God’s love is always there…
Discussion Questions:
- Think of a situation that upset your peace, where you responded with anxiety, anger or fear. Were you able to overcome your distress? How?
- Are you able to recognize triggers that upset you? Can you anticipate or eliminate these triggers to find peace?
- Have you ever invited God into a situation to help you find peace?
See you [day/time] – please bring a friend!
God Bless.
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