Interfaith Forum Will Address Violence Prevention

Organizers of a conference planned for June 5 are inviting people of all faiths to help find practical ways to prevent violence. The event will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the San Juan Capistrano Mission.

Organizers hope that bringing various religious perspectives together to discuss solutions will help reduce conflict. “While religions may differ in some of their beliefs, their basic underlying themes are based on loving one another,” said coordinator Joan Tepfer.

Speaking at the event will be Linda and Peter Biehl, parents of Amy Biehl, who was murdered by a gang of young men in South Africa. The Biehls, who have publicly forgiven those who killed their daughter, exemplify the teachings of forgiveness, Tepfer said.

Other workshop speakers include psychiatrist Larry Jackson, who will discuss how religion helps in resolving violent behavior, and David Kreiger, who will give a summary of practical steps to nonviolence. Participants are asked to share their own success stories in dealing with situations of conflict.

Tepfer said this conference is especially important in the midst of recent school shooting tragedies. “Violent incidents have been so prevalent lately, and it’s been in all the news,” Tepfer said. “Although [the conference] was planned a long time ago, it has more relevance now than ever.”

The cost is $25 per person and includes lunch, a workbook and presentation papers. Registration can be sent in advance to St. John Neumann Ecumenical Committee, 5101 Alton Parkway, Irvine, CA 92714, or paid at the door. Checks must be received before June 1. Only cash will be accepted at the mission entrance. Information: (949) 472-1010.