On the one hand, some Brethren understand peacemaking as a practice of nonresistance or nonviolence. Brethren annually reaffirm that historic position as a nonresistant peace church and, as such, provides counsel and support for those persons who, as a matter of personal conscience, hold a conviction of nonresistance. On the other hand, some Brethren understand peacemaking as the responsibility of the state to defend against and deter evil. These Brethren affirm the role of the state to maintain peace and deter aggression through a strong national defense by sanctioning chaplains in all branches of military service and providing counsel and support for those who, as a matter of personal conscience, hold to the conviction of peace through a strong military defense or “resistance.” ...Our role as peacemakers may be in dispute, but the goal of peace is undeniable.