north america

Alongside John Paul's extensive international experience, he has been involved in numerous peacebuilding and mediation initiatives in his home context of North America. He served as director of the Mennonite Conciliation Service, and in that capacity contributed as a mediator and consultant with a range of organizations including nonprofits, religious organizations, and universities. In a training and education capacity, John Paul has designed and led trainings, courses, and programs on peacebuilding and conflict transformation for institutions across the region. The content in this section includes a range of resources, including books, interviews, blog posts, and more, in which John Paul offers insights regarding peacebuilding within the North American context and between the United States and the global community.

The Pocket Guide for Facing Down a Civil War: Surprising ideas from everyday people who shifted the cycles of violence

A collection of stories, reflections, and wisdom offering insight into the challenge of facing down toxic polarization layered with violence and the surprising ways everyday people found to shift harmful patterns of violence that had lasted decades. 

Reconcile: Conflict Transformation for Ordinary Christians

A book containing practical ideas for transforming conflict in everyday life with a challenge to Christians to renew their commitment to reconciliation as the heart of the gospel message.

The Journey Toward Reconciliation

An exploration into the spiritual foundations that undergird John Paul's work as a practitioner and scholar of peacebuilding.

Varela Symposium: Transforming Conflict – From Science to Real World Applications

John Paul's contributions to the Upaya Zen Center's Varela Symposium 2018, which explored the theme, "Transforming Conflict: From Science to Real World Applications."

Zen Brain: Mind, Brain, Social Perspectives of Views, Values, Ethics

John Paul's contributions to the Upaya Zen Center's Zen Brain conference in 2017, which explored the theme, "Mind, Brain, Social Perspectives of Views, Values, Ethics."

Launching a Career in Peacebuilding

A chapter sharing reflections on key elements for creating a learning environment where transformation is possible.

The Wow Factor and a Non-Theory of Change

A thought piece that explores positive approaches to peacebuilding as a composite moment in which the creative process lifts sight to a new, more holistic view.

The Heart of Reconciliation: A Conversation with John Paul Lederach

A conversation that explores John Paul's work, dynamics of conflict in congregational and church settings, and the centrality of reconciliation to the Christian life.

Making Our Way Back to Humanity: Beyond September 11

A chapter reflecting on the significance and impact of the events of September 11, 2001, for the world of peacebuilding a year after they transpired.