“For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in [the Son], and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.” (Colossians 1:19-20)
Our world yearns for God’s reconciliation. As God is restoring the world through Christ, so also Christians must join the work of reconciliation. We are called to bring justice and transformation of racial inequity, poverty, environmental issues, human rights, global conflicts, and other issues today. In order to accomplish this work, we need to understand how we can apply the theology of reconciliation to real-world situations. The Center for Reconciliation (CFR) at Duke Divinity School was founded to form and support leaders, communities, and congregations as Christ-like ambassadors of reconciliation.
Student Programs
The CFR runs several student programs to develop students’ understanding of the theology and practice of reconciliation. These include an advanced spiritual formation group, workshops/trainings, pilgrimages, and the CFR Fellows program. Faculty also teach a number of courses related to reconciliation.
International Partner Initiatives
The CFR, working not only in the United States but also in international settings, has collaborated in programs that bring Christians from across the world to specific regions that have experienced pain and conflict. Together, they share theological scholarship and build relationships in order to discern ways to bring about reconciliation. International partner initiatives include:
Summer Institute for Reconciliation
The CFR also sponsors the annual Summer Institute for Reconciliation that brings scholars, students, community members, church leaders, and leaders of faith-based organizations to the Duke Divinity campus for an intensive weeklong institute on reconciliation. The program combines plenary speakers, round-table issues panels, seminars, and ecumenical worship to create a space to grow together as scholars and practitioners of reconciliation.
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CFR Gallery
The Center for Reconciliation hosts events such as the Summer Institute for Reconciliation, as well as lectures and other programs in the U.S. and abroad.
