Religion as a peacemaking resource. 2nd Edition

This work is about religion as a peacemaking tool. It shows how religion can be used as a resource for peace, development and social change. The vast majority of people in Sierra Leone and the world are probably religious. This research examines the role of religious leaders and religious communities in the peacemaking process during and after the Sierra Leone Civil war 1991- 2002. In former studies about violence and religion, the role of religion in the peacemaking process is often neglected, especially in studies about the African continent. The research is based on theoretical approaches in the field of religion and violence and religion and peace as well as on an empirical study in Sierra Leone. The work develops the praxis of peace, based on the Sierra Leone context, as it argues that the positive role of religion is peace and development is paramount. The research shows that Christian leaders, churches, and ecumenical organisations were resources that contributed to peace and development. Christians and their leaders were influenced by ATR as they led and supported the works of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Sierra Leone and the Special Court for Sierra Leone.