Fermanagh Churches Forum, in conjunction with Fermanagh District Council, held a conference at the Manor House Hotel to consider the role of Churches in building Peace and Reconciliation in Northern Ireland. More than 40 people deliberated on this complex topic.

The conference was led by Dr. Johnston McMaster and Eileen Gallagher, Irish School of Ecumenics. Dr. McMaster presented a paper titled 'The Pervasive Culture of Violence.'

In groups participants reflected on proposals for local churches together developing a theology and practice of non-violence. Eileen Gallagher presented a paper on sectarianism which examined the roots of political and religious sectarianism and the consequences particularly of religious sectarianism. Participants heard about the need for churches to re-examine some theological concepts which give rise to sectarian attitudes and beliefs. In group work sessions and follow-up reports participants were able to identify and discuss manifestations of sectarianism which still pervade our community.

The afternoon session examined generational hurts and the need for dealing with the past which included a reflection on the feasibility of a Day of Reflection.

This was of particular interest given plans, put in place by the Healing Through Remembering Project, to hold a day of private reflection on June 21st 2007. In the last session 'Generational Peacebuilding' participants heard that peacebuilding is a lengthy task of transforming conflict and building alternative structures of democracy, human rights, inclusion and responsibility sharing. Churches were urged to put peace and reconciliation education and practice at the top of their agendas.

Response to the conference was very positive.

One participant summed up: "We need more days like today when people from different backgrounds meet and openly discuss, in a respectful way, very difficult issues. It is hoped that this can lead to better relationships among church people, and also to some collaborative action on the ground."