Press Releases15 Nov 04

Reconciling differences involves everyone - Down and Dromore Conference on Reconciliation

RECONCILING DIFFERENCES INVOLVES EVERYONE

More than 350 delegates will attend the Church of Ireland Diocese of Down and Dromore conference on reconciliation to be held at the Slieve Donard Hotel, Newcastle on Saturday, 27 November 2004 following a similar event last year.

Conference Organiser Rev Charles Leeke says: "This is an opportunity for people from the various churches to come together and share ideas on how to work towards a society at peace with itself.

"Throughout the 'Troubles' pastoral workers have been dealing with the sad effects of trauma and offering support to individuals, families and communities. The churches and indeed those with no church affiliation need to understand how to move on and change things for the better."

The Keynote Speaker is David Stevens, leader of the Corrymeela Community and author of The Land of Unlikeness: Explorations into Reconciliation.

The programme is based on ten training workshops covering topics such as social action, trauma awareness, asylum seekers, reconciliation through art, forgiveness and truth commissions.

The Rt Revd Harold Miller, Bishop of Down and Dromore will welcome guests to the conference including the Bishop of Dromore, Dr John McAreavey.