March 20, 2003

My Dear Friends,

This is a sad day for us as we acknowledge the beginning of US military action in Iraq. This comes just as we completed our third Prayer Breakfast for Peace in Los Angeles. We know that our prayers will have an effect and that people will be uplifted by our continued collective efforts.

During our Prayer Breakfast, Zainab Salbi, who has just come back from Iraq, movingly told of what many of her friends there are experiencing. Our prayers and hearts are with them, and all the Iraqi people, just as they are with the young American, British and Australian men and women who have been sent into combat. We pray for a quick end to this war and for the safety of those in danger. Our prayers are also for those feeling fear over the current world situation. They should be assured that the number of people standing together for peace is growing rapidly, and that ultimately this will bring a positive response and create a new model for resolving conflicts. We will overcome the dangers we now face.

Our gatherings for peace will continue in cities around the country. In these gatherings we will be addressing how to move beyond fear and anger so that we can together bring to fruition a new vision for peace. We have planted a seed and we must have patience and faith that it will in time blossom. We will keep you informed of our next events and ask for your continue efforts, knowing that you are making a difference.

Warm regards,

Rev. Joan Brown Campbell
Chair, Global Peace Initiative of Women

Dena Merriam
Convener, Global Peace Initiative of Women