Written by an experienced practitioner in the field of faith-based diplomacy who has worked in some of the world’s most troubled regions, Faith-Based Reconciliation begins with the premise that moral vision plays a key role in shaping individuals and communities. Its primary message is that the Abrahamic moral vision shared by Jews, Christians and Muslims, which is embodied as faith-based reconciliation, is a fresh approach to intractable identity-based conflict, an alternative to religious extremism and an ancient paradigm needed for the twenty-first century.

This book focuses on eight core values that comprise a moral vision of faith-based reconciliation: pluralism, inclusion, peacemaking, social justice, forgiveness, healing wounds, sovereignty, and atonement. Each of these represents a principle. However, each forms the foundation for policy and program development that will heal and sustain societies. These eight core values are designed to be kept in dynamic tension with each other. They assume the centrality of relationships whether between two individuals or two nations. They assume a dynamic integration of transcendent faith with politics without imposing a particular sectarian or institutional perspective.

The Abrahamic tradition, moral vision, and mission began as a promise to one person. God promised Abraham that he would be a blessing to all nations and that it would take on the form of tikkun olam—to heal, to repair, and to transform the world. Abraham had the courage to take that first step on a long journey. The baton of faith-based reconciliation has been passed by people of faith from one generation to another. Now, it is being passed to us in the fullness of time.

Will our generation take up the baton and run the course? Only time will tell. But one should always remember that first step to becoming an instrument of reconciliation is to say yes to God.

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