To lead a discussion of the causes and consequences of war.

(Download this discussion as a PDF)

OVERVIEW

Students need to understand that, while peace is desirable, this is a fallen world where war is sometimes unavoidable. Students should discover the evil nature of war, to better understand the necessity of working for peace.

LEADER PREPARATION

• Record video information about war. Many PBS stations run the "World at War" series and similar programs. What wars are in the news? What are the issues at stake? Obtain a portion of a war movie—one illustrating casual attitudes toward killing those who are different.
• Prepare to address the effect war has had upon your community and your kids’ families. Are there refugees in your area?
• Find someone who has taken part in, or been a victim of, war. Interview them on video (or with the group).
• Prepare any necessary equipment for use.

GROUP BUILDING

• Sing some fun, familiar songs.
• Play some team games, possibly relay races.

GROUP PRESENTATION AND DISCUSSION

Show the acquire video on war. The discussion will depend on what you have. If it is a war movie, consider asking these questions (modify to your needs):

• Is this realistic?
• Why is it difficult to imagine being "the enemy?"
• Why is it that heroes are never killed (aside from making the movie pointless)?

If you show a documentary, pose these questions (feel free to modify):

• What is there about these scenes to which you can personally relate? If nothing, why?
• If you were in this situation, how would you deal with it?

Interview someone who has been involved in war. The questions asked will depend upon their experience. These can begin discussion:

• How are you a different person because of your experience?
• How can this generation work for peace?

WRAP-UP

Address these issues to summarize the discussion:

• Unlike television, real war always claims innocent victims, and affects individual lives sometimes for generations.
• Modern warfare makes it easier to kill those whose faces we cannot see.
• Explain your views on self-defense.

Dean Borgman cCYS