Just Peacemakers.

JUST PEACEMAKERS Mary Evelyn Jegen (Paulist, 2006)

Sister Mary Evelyn Jegen, S.N.D. writes with the wisdom of a woman who has been involved in peace and justice work for years. In her newest book, Just Peacemakers: An Introduction to Peace and Justice, she makes the case that working for peace is not only a part of our gospel call but an imperative for what it means to be Christian. By defining discipleship and making comparisons between the Eucharist and social action, Jegen sets the framework for a commitment to peace and justice.

Jegen then spends time defining nonviolence as a movement unto itself and not simply the opposite of violence. She does a thorough job of laying out the development of the nonviolent movement in the church. Drawing on the U.S. bishops' 1983 letter The Challenge of Peace and their 10th anniversary followup letter, The Harvest of Justice is Sown in Peace, Jegen shows the movement as presenting "nonviolence as a morally praiseworthy position for individuals" to positioning nonviolence as central to Catholic social thought for individuals and institutions.

The final half of the book discusses ways to learn effective social action and suggests methods of social change. She offers "seven ways to work for justice and peace ... which correspond to various personality types and preferred ways of working." This is an excellent chapter because people with a commitment to social action often feel their gifts are not enough. In highlighting these seven ways Jegen opens up the playing field and allows everyone to find a method that works.

On the whole, the book offers valuable suggestions for incorporating social action into one's life, although at times it would have been good to hear more of her own life story. Some call for transforming ourselves through practices such as "benevolent glancing ... a conscious effort to look with love on each person." Other more complex suggestions will help individuals or communities hoping to work together for peace.