Feb 4, 2008
Dear Pastor,
Did you know that "terrorists" are coming to your town? These men are considered "former terrorists now for peace," yet we believe there is great reason to be concerned. Here is why:
The Volusia PeaceCenter is a local interfaith community organization dedicated to peace through nonviolence, social justice, and greater understanding among all the people of the world. We have studied the conflict in the Middle East in great depth for the past year. Several of our members have visited and studied in Israel and Palestine. We feel the complexity of the conflict requires careful study, reflection, and respectful dialogue.
We are distressed to learn about the event planned for Monday, Feb. 25th at 7 pm at the King Center entitled, "Hear the Confessions of 3 Former Terrorists, Now Peace Activists... Learn the real reason for terror, learn the only way to defeat it, from people who were once terrorists."
We are writing to let you know that we are concerned about the misinformation that is being promoted by the organizers of this event, Project Restoration and the Walid Shoebat Foundation. Our primary concern is that this event will mislead and deceive the general public with its anti-Muslim rhetoric. We believe this event may potentially fuel fear and hatred, not truth and love.
As people of faith we need to speak out on behalf of reconciliation among the Abrahamic religions: Judaism, Islam and Christianity. We would like to invite you and your congregation to join us in witnessing for peace and understanding. The Volusia PeaceCenter has educational opportunities that examine this complex issue. To learn more please go to our website: www.volusiapeacecenter.org. Please send us your email and phone number so that we can keep you informed about our events. Working together we can build a more peaceful world.
In Peace,
Volusia PeaceCenter Steering Committee