Mennonite Weekly Review

AKRON, Pa. — Mennonite Central Committee co-sponsored a dialogue with international political and religious leaders Sept. 25 in New York that included Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and political and religious leaders from Christian, Jewish and Muslim traditions, in addition to leaders from other faiths.

MCC has faced some public criticism for co-sponsoring the dialogue out of a misconception that it was meant to honor President Ahmadinejad.

A few questions and answers:

Why is MCC co-hosting this event?

MCC’s work with Iran comes from the Christian conviction to live out the principles taught by Jesus Christ — to seek to love and to live at peace with all people, including those who might otherwise be considered enemies. This means undertaking dialogue, not merely with those who agree with us, but also those with whom we have stark and serious disagreements. As people of faith and people of peace, we advocate for governments to resolve their conflicts through dialogue rather than through military force. As Christians, we are called to walk the extra mile.

Is MCC honoring the president of Iran?

This event is not intended to honor any individual. MCC believes this event offers the opportunity for listening to one another and asking one another important, and sometimes difficult, questions. The event is a place for people of different faiths to work toward building bridges of peace and understanding. MCC views respectful dialogue as a vital, nonviolent step in reducing the potentially deadly outcome of heightened political rhetoric and posturing.

What impact are these ongoing meetings having?

Building good relationships takes time, patience and persistence. Isolation does not bring peace. MCC is not alone in believing this. In recent months key members of Congress from both parties have called on the U.S. government to meet face-to-face with the Iranian government.

What is MCC’s position on the controversy surrounding President Ahmadinejad?