Peace Point

Finally Finished

admin — Sun, 20 May 2012 13:05:14 +0000

One of our Peace Advocates recently had the opportunity to mediate the dissolution of a partnership involving two couples – both believers. The two had struggled with their unreconciled conflict and unresolved disputes for eight years. Even though sixteen prior attempts to find resolution and reconciliation were unsuccessful, they tried one last effort before submitting the issues to binding arbitration as required by their partnership agreement. The day of the mediation was the first time in eight years the partners had seen each other. After working virtually non-stop for 9 hours, the matter was settled. As important, the parties were finally freed from the burden of their conflict, as this note received from one of them reflects.

Dear ________,

We would like to thank you for your skillful mediation on Wednesday.

As we are more rested now, with the stress of uncertain outcomes behind us, we have been able to reflect upon and appreciate your godly application of professional skills on behalf of both parties in the conflict.

God answered many prayers that day. We are so grateful to be able to move forward unimpeded with the mission God gave us.

And may God bless you in your mission. May He prosper you as you continue to use the skills He has given you to help others.

In Christ,

This is why we do what we do! God gets all the credit, the praise and the thanks.

Thirty “Crossover” In April

admin — Sun, 20 May 2012 12:45:36 +0000

Robert Whitlow

Get ready to cross the Jordan River into the land I am about to give you.
Joshua 1:2

On April 13, 2012, a group of thirty mediators from across the Carolinas came together at The Cove Church in Mooresville, NC for PeacePoint’s CROSSOVER training. They came to peer into the promised land of Christian mediation and see what it looks like on the other side of the river. They discovered that the land was flowing with the milk and honey of God’s grace for those willing to arm themselves with the weapons of peace.

Led by PeacePoint’s versions of Moses and Joshua (Tim Sellers and Neil Carmichael) the adventuresome group learned in the morning sessions about the theology, characteristics, priority, and anatomy of Christian Resolution & Reconciliation. Included in this foundational teaching was a scintillating lesson based upon the Nestorian Controversy and the Council of Ephesus in 431 A.D. If all this sounds intimidating, it wasn’t nearly as bad as the hostile people waiting for the Israelites on the other side of the Jordan River. In actuality, Tim and Neil clearly explained how Christian mediators can help people approach conflicts and disputes in a way that serves God’s children and honors the Lord.

At the lunch break (barbeque, potato salad, baked beans, slaw, etc.) Carey Madding, wife of the senior pastor at The Cove Church, shared how Christian mediation has impacted her life and family. As with the ancient Israelites, perseverance in pursuing peace is a key. And the rewards of reconciliation in a family are beyond price.

In the afternoon, our leaders unpacked the roles and responsibilities of Christian mediators or Peace Advocates (isn’t that an apt term for a person who helps others find resolution and reconciliation in the midst of a conflict and dispute?) from an ethical, biblical, and church authority perspective.

Throughout the day, Tim and Neil made the participants break up into small, awkward groups that turned out to be rich with discussion and insight. To cap it all off, late in the afternoon the attendees were forced to draw a diagram illustrating the interface between biblical and secular law. Don’t attempt to do that at home without expert supervision.

Most people have been to seminars that were so boring they would make reading the classified ads in the newspaper interesting. This was not that seminar. As an observer (and participant) it was gratifying for me to see the sustained level of interest and enthusiasm present throughout the day. But don’t take my word for it. Listen to what some of the attendees said:

“Well organized; good flow, professional approach and materials, knowledgeable presenters, A+ effort.”

“Superb! Prompts a great opportunity for personal growth in Christ.”

“Extremely well-coordinated and presented. Great energy.”

“Excellent interactive instruction. Solid, sound Christian foundation.”

What next? PeacePoint has education and training events scheduled for this fall and beyond. Take advantage of these opportunities. Cross the river and see what’s on the other side. You’ll be glad you did.

Robert Whitlow is a Peace Advocate and Certified Christian Conciliator™. He is also the Chairman of PeacePoint’s Board of Directors. Robert was one of the thirty who attended the Crossover training. We are pleased to report that he, along with all the participants, passed the final exam.

Wishing you a blessed Christmas!

admin — Sun, 18 Dec 2011 15:45:24 +0000

Charlene and I were in Israel just a few weeks ago. Jeff and Robbyn Apthorp, a delightful and very talented couple from Charlotte, were among our traveling companions. One of their children, Valerie, was caught “on tape” at age 4 reciting Luke 2:1-20. Later, at age 15, Valerie composed and played music to go with the story she had shared 11 years earlier. I found it delightful and want to share it with you as Christmas approaches this year.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KPiSDIXC8Kc

I hear and read cards that say Christmas is about peace and love and kindness and sharing. Those are all good things, but Christmas is really about Jesus, God’s own Son who came to earth voluntarily to live, die and rise again so everyone willing to believe in Him can have peace and life, now and forever. Now that is cause for celebration, for sure!

I am grateful for Valerie, Linus (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3dj9mpBdUAU&feature=related just in case) and everyone who helps the world (and me) remember that it is all about Jesus.

The entire PeacePoint team and I hope you have a wonderful Christmas!

Tim Sellers
President – PeacePoint

Carolina Peacemaking is now PeacePoint

admin — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 00:04:33 +0000

We are proud to announce that Carolina Peacemaking is now PeacePoint. This change reflects a broader vision to provide more in-depth resources and services to a larger segment of the Christian Community. Please visit us at www.peacepoint.com and share the resources you find there with others so that they too are aware of all we have to offer.

New Website Under Development

admin — Sun, 07 Aug 2011 14:52:29 +0000

We are proud to announce that a new website is now under development for PeacePoint (formerly known as Carolina Peacemaking). Please check back soon for the latest updates.