Webcast: 2023 Blessing of the Peacemakers

Play the video below featuring NOWCastSA, Northwest Vista College, and the San Antonio peaceCenter for the 18th annual Blessing of the San Antonio Peacemakers.

This event took place at Northwest Vista College’s Palmetto Center for Performing Arts for the first time since the peaceCenter transitioned its leadership and location to the college. The historic transition last spring was a culmination of shared values in hopes of moving the organization forward.

From a press release from Northwest Vista College:

“In 2017, the peaceCenter was the catalyst to have San Antonio recognized as a Compassionate City. The City Council unanimously voted on a resolution affirming the Charter for Compassion and the International Campaign for Compassionate Cities. The International Campaign for Compassionate Cities is a global movement inspired by the Golden Rule, or Ethic of Reciprocity, which calls on each person to treat others as they would want to be treated.”

At each blessing, the San Antonio community gathers together in an interfaith ceremony to honor local peacemakers.

The 18th Annual Blessing of the Peacemakers awarded three individuals for the 2023 Peace Laureates.

Rosalyn Falcon Collier: Co-founder of the San Antonio peaceCenter and founder of the Women on Pilgrimage Retreat at St. Anthony de Padua.
Ann E. Helmke: Faith-Based Community Liaison at City of San Antonio Department of Human Services, as well as Co-founder and (volunteer) Animating Director for the San Antonio peaceCenter.
Susan Ives: Writer, Co-founder and Speaker for the San Antonio peaceCenter.

A quote from Northwest Vista College:

"Compassionate SA and Peace Laureates wouldn’t been possible without Collier, Helmke and Ives. For 28 years, they have been trailblazing, co-creating and visioning a more beautiful, peaceful and just community by sharing their wisdom, power and love."

You can replay the video right here: