Just One Day
Last year, Kevin Malcom, founder of A Circle Of Friends, presented an idea
to his former co-worker, Allison Thrower. He called it Just 1 Day. For the
24 hours from midnight to midnight EST on August 22, 2004, Malcom believes
the world will "stand down" and cease all conflicts.
A Circle Of Friends is a worldwide fellowship ministry, centered at the
Peoples United Methodist Church in South Portland. The ministry, which has
grown to 55 churches in 52 nations, started as a way for people to reach out
in friendship to church congregations of all faiths, sizes, and
nationalities and to establish long-term relationships that would, in time,
bring groups of people together.
Malcom and Thrower, with support from Jean Pierre von Noppen, in Brussels,
developed a nine-page plan of action and sent it to organizations, House
and Senate leaders, and world heads of state. Responses from the world
governments began trickling in. Some said the matter was being considered
and others responded with political doublespeak. When this happens, a more
concisely worded letter goes out right away.
"Don't try and tell me it's not possible, "Malcom says, "because it is. The
children of tomorrow deserve better. I think that if we give the world one
day without war, without fear, and without mindless destruction to our
planet, then people around the world will want more. Let them see what it
looks like. What it sounds like. What it smells and tastes like. Just this
one day."
To date, four nations have signed the initiative, including Israel; seven
nations have taken it under consideration, and eight have requested more
information.
Peace Action Maine has offered its support. "Most great ideas start with one
person's vision and commitment, says Debbie Atwood, PAM Associate Director.
Donations to help with the enormous expenses of Just 1 Day can be sent to A
Circle Of Friends, 310 Broadway, South Portland, Maine, 04106. Kevin Malcom
can be reached at kmalcom@gwi.net
Back to Peace Talk Index, Spring, 2004