Carl Wilkens
When Neighbors Become Enemies: Healing and Reconciliation After Genocide
Carl Wilkens will share his first-hand experiences from the 1994 Rwandan genocide against the Tutsi and the nations 30 years of radical restorative justice that continues to evolve today.
You are invited to spend Friday evening and Sabbath exploring powerful stories, beginning with personal accounts of accompanying individuals through genocide. Along the way, you’ll discover unexpected sources of courage and enemies who became allies. The series will conclude with stories highlighting the importance of safety, empathy, and the power of confession.
We will explore the incredible story of how one survivor was able to rewire her brain, breaking free from anger and bitterness. This newfound freedom led to a reconciliation that, at first, angered Wilkens but ultimately became a key part of his own healing journey.
Our story-based event will provide time for unpacking and putting together your “take home” ideas and strategies for strengthening a community experience that radiates belonging.
More resources here: https://worldoutsidemyshoes.org/equip-inspire_resources/
Friday, November 8
6:00 pm PST
Fellowship Hall
Vegetarian Soup Potluck
7:30 pm PST
Sanctuary/Online
Film screening* – “I’m Not Leaving”
This 40 minute film looks at the 1994 Rwandan genocide against the Tutsi, through the lens of the Wilkens families’ journey through these horrific hundred days of slaughter. You will travel with them through the wrenching decision Carl and Teresa made that Carl would remain behind and try to help while Teresa takes their young children to safety. They will stay in touch through daily radio contracts. Carl will be working with Rwandan colleagues to bring food and water to groups of orphans while navigating the deadly roadblocks across the city. Teresa will reframe the terrible ordeal into an adventure for the children. Followed by Q&R time with Carl and Teresa
*Note: Friday evening’s film will have several graphic images that may not be appropriate for children younger than Middle School. The rest of the weekend’s presentations will not have graphic images or language. Here is the link to a version of the film for younger children minus the graphic images: https://vimeo.com/217354082
Saturday, November 9
Sabbath School, 9:30am PST
Sanctuary/Online
