Stories are powerful means of building relationships among people. When human beings feel connected, community is formed. The author, an Assistant Professor of Theology, examines the potential for dismantling cultural walls through her theology course, Faith Behind Bars, via letter-writing as sources of transformative narratives, circles as means of critical reflection, and community-building as a key predecessor to activism. Stories, rituals within peace circles, and the strength of kinship bind learners in the class to one another and community members in shared comprehension of injustices and the desire to change systems. It is a spirit of compassion and investment in relationships that spurs people to act as peacebuilders, both independently and collectively. Experiences, connection, and knowledge all contribute to a responsive and practical theology that is relevant and contributes to building peace and nurturing justice.

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Stories are powerful means of building relationships among people. When human beings feel connected, community is formed. The author, an Assistant Professor of Theology, examines the potential for dismantling cultural walls through her theology course, Faith Behind Bars, via letter-writing as sources of transformative narratives, circles as means of critical reflection, and community-building as a key predecessor to activism. Stories, rituals within peace circles, and the strength of kinship bind learners in the class to one another and community members in shared comprehension of injustices and the desire to change systems. It is a spirit of compassion and investment in relationships that spurs people to act as peacebuilders, both independently and collectively. Experiences, connection, and knowledge all contribute to a responsive and practical theology that is relevant and contributes to building peace and nurturing justice.