The Unmasking of Violence

The Rev. Shanta Premawardhana discusses the dire circumstances surrounding some of Chicago's socioeconomically depressed neighborhoods, which, he unravels, can consequently lead to the tragic death of a young teen and countless alike.

Fifteen-year-old Deon Gilbert was killed in the south side of Chicago on the night of November 7th by a single gun-shot to his abdomen. This promising young man attended Ellis Avenue Church almost every Sunday since he was about 3- years-old, had hopes of playing football and studying architecture perhaps at Florida A&M.

The church which attracts a good number of African American young people has the question of urban violence regularly brought to its attention during prayer time by these young people who seek prayer for a neighbor, a classmate, a relative or friend who has been shot or killed. But this time, it was not one that we did not know. It was one of our own children. The worship on Sunday was somber and mournful. It was not yet time to think of hope and resurrection. It was just time to mourn. Read more...

Americans Can Transform Economy with Interfaith Organizing  

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Pre-Parliament Dinner Reclaims the Interfaith Hearts of Chicago 

The Parliament's Reclaiming the Heart of Our Humanity Pre-Parliament benefit and Faiths Fest event included a dozen exhibiting faith groups, engaging presentations, and inspiring speakers, most notably, Parliament trustee Dr. Arun Gandhi. Dr. Gandhi spoke about continuing his Grandfather, Mohandas Gandhi's, legacy and vision of non-violence, and about what it means to carry out this mission in one's everyday life. Click here to view event pictures...