Who We Are:
The Episcopal Peace Fellowship (EPF) is a national organization connecting all who seek a deliberate response to injustice and violence and want to pray, study and take action for justice and peace in our communities, our church, and the world. We are called to do justice, dismantle violence, and strive to be peacemakers. Become a peacemaker.
History
EPF began as The Episcopal Pacifist Fellowship on November 11, 1939, Armistice Day. In the early days of World War II, EPF supported Conscientious Objectors, urging the whole church to do so. At that time members were required to sign a commitment: “In loyalty to the Person, Spirit and teachings of Jesus Christ, my conscience commits me to His way of redemptive love and compels me to refuse to participate in or give moral support to any war.” Click here for more history.
What We Do:
Peace Partner Congregations
EPF’s Peace Partner program is intended for people who are seeking peacemaking Episcopal Churches in their area. Click here to learn more about EPF’s Peace Partner Program.
- Click here to read the Presiding Bishop’s letter of support.
- Click here to see a map and list of Peace Partner congregations.
Action Groups are comprised of individuals from around the U.S. who are passionate about one of the following issues: Iraq/Afghanistan, Death Penalty, Peace & the MDGs, Israel and Palestine, Iran, Conscientious Objectors, Nuclear Abolition and Young Adults. Action group members are expected to attend monthly phone conferences and coordinate EPF’s action on each of these issues.
- Click here to contact the chair of the Action Group you are most interested in and begin working on these issues today! Or click here to create your own Action Group.
- Click here for the latest news and information from our Action Groups.
- Check out our Links and Resources page for helpful info on each of these issues.
Chapters & Regional Meetings
EPF chapters are regionally-based and work on local peace initiatives within their parish and communities as well as on national and international issues. Chapters sponsor and co-sponsor prayer and public witness such as peace vigils, liturgies, service projects and demonstrations.
- Join the EPF Chapter nearest you! Or click here to find out about how you can start a new EPF Chapter.
- Contact the Executive Director to find out more about hosting a regional meeting.
- Click here for news about EPF’s Chapters & Regional Meetings.
Young Adult Brain Trust
The Young Adult Brain Trust coordinates the growing group of young adults who are committed to the work of EPF. Our Young Adults are active at the Episcopal Church’s General Convention and are a significant part of our Executive Committee.
- Contact the chair of the Young Adult Brain Trust and join now!
- Click here for news about the Young Adult Brain Trust.
Nonviolence
EPF seeks to address confusion, ambivalence, fear and hatred, by helping individuals and groups cultivate the everyday practice of active nonviolence. EPF provides nonviolence training and has launched two special projects in cooperation with the Diocese of Haiti and with Episcopal Native Peoples. EPF’s Nonviolence Training is done in partnership with the organization Creating a Culture of Peace.
- Contact the chair of the Nonviolence Committee and join now!
- Click here for news about the Nonviolence Program.
General Convention
The General Convention is the governing body of The Episcopal Church that meets every three years. During its triennial meeting deputies and bishops consider a wide range of important matters facing the Church. Throughout its history, the Episcopal Peace Fellowship has been a crucial part of insuring that The Episcopal Church continue in its work and witness for peace and justice. Click here for the latest info on EPF’s presence at General Convention.
