Christian CND Conference: Transforming Hearts, Securing Futures

Christian CND Leicester

Christian Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament held its Annual Conference and AGM in Leicester last weekend. Members and supporters were welcomed to 'a place with strong Christian foundations and strong foundations in the work of peace.' Christian CND members from around the country gathered with people working for peace in Leicester, including a member of Leicester CND.

Dr Dan Cordle, the keynote speaker, spoke electrifyingly on the literature and culture of the 'nuclear age'. Drawing on rich excerpts from literary fiction, poetry, and film references, he explored common themes such as the changed identity of hibakusha, experiences of being unable to contain things, survivors of atomic bombs or nuclear testing no longer trusting the natural world which might harbour invisible sinister effects of radioactivity. In response to a question, Dan explained a view that in fact all contemporary literature must bear some echo of our awareness of the threat of nuclear annihilation. In response to another question, Dan admitted that he needs to step away from the topic from time to time as it can be overwhelming, but he was able to point the audience to a few pieces of literature which present a hopeful vision of the future.

A range of workshops were offered, led by Christian CND Exec members: Bible study; origami crane-making; role-play telling stories for nuclear disarmament; Catholic Social Teaching and peace-making. A time of prayer incorporated resources from the Week of Prayer for World Peace. The day finished with the Christian CND AGM in which new Exec members were approved and delegates were given an overview of the organisation's strategy for the year ahead.

When asked for comments at the end of the day, one delegate reported that 'it was wonderful to find pockets of joy and connectivity in such dark subject matter.' A non-Christian delegate reported that he felt very positive about the contribution to nuclear disarmament that Christian people can make.

Do consider joining Christian CND, a member organisation. Be part of the community of Christians witnessing against nuclear weapons and working towards disarmament and peace.

Christian Campaign for Christian CND is a specialist section of the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament. Christian CND provides a focus for Christians who want to witness on the basis of their faith against nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction, while also positively campaigning for peace. We are a member organisation with an Executive Committee elected annually.

LINKS

CCND: https://christiancnd.org.uk/

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