Peacemaking in Troubled Times
In a world overwhelmed by conflict, division, and noise, Christ offers a radically different path: peacemaking that begins within. What does it mean to become a peacemaker in our time? What does Scripture teach us about peace that goes deeper than ceasefires or conflict avoidance?
In this 4-week online course, you’ll explore what it means to make peace in light of the Gospel. Through biblical reflection and insights from the Church Fathers, Fr. Sergius Halvorsen will guide you through a Christian vision of peace rooted in thanksgiving, humility, and the cross.
By the end of the course, you will be able to:
Differentiate between worldly peacekeeping and the Gospel’s call to peacemaking
Understand the connection between gratitude, patience, and interior peace
Reflect on the Crucifixion as the foundation of true peace
Begin to cultivate daily practices of thanksgiving that shape the heart
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Course Information
Course Description
4 Recorded video lecture by the professor
4 PowerPoint Slides
Optional Readings
This is a wonderful opportunity to hear from and work with the dynamic faculty of St Vladimir’s Seminary.
Professor
V. Rev. Dr. J. Sergius Halvorsen serves as Assistant Professor of Homiletics and Rhetoric at St. Vladimir’s Orthodox Theological Seminary, where he has taught since 2011. He also directs the Seminary’s Doctor of Ministry Program and regularly teaches courses in Christian education and the sacred art of narrative.
A priest of the Orthodox Church in America, Fr. Sergius is attached to Holy Transfiguration Church in New Haven, Connecticut. He also serves as a part-time chaplain at Yale New Haven Hospital. In addition to his teaching and pastoral work, Fr. Sergius is an accomplished liturgical musician. He has contributed to several recordings with Archangel Voices, a vocal ensemble dedicated to Orthodox liturgical music in English.
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Peacemaking in Troubled Times
Uncover the Gospel’s Vision for Real Peace
Lecture 1: Blessed Are the Peacemakers
What kind of peace does Jesus call us to? Explore the difference between externally imposed peace and God’s peace—shalom—and the peacemaking that Christ is referring to in the Beatitudes.
Lecture 2: The Mystery of the Crucified Messiah
Discover how Christ’s Passion reveals a peace not dependent on circumstances, and how humility becomes the first step toward lasting reconciliation.
Lecture 3: Radical Thanksgiving
Why does St. Paul urge us to give thanks always and for everything? Learn how gratitude becomes a gateway to communion with God and a wellspring of peace.
Lecture 4: Patience and Peacemaking
Consider how patience strengthens our pursuit of peace—and how we can cultivate both in the midst of conflict, uncertainty, or suffering.