Walking for Peace: A Harmonious Christian Chorus of "Critical Appreciation" for the Buddhist Monks

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The barefoot Buddhist monks from the Huong Dao Center are closing in on Washington, D.C., nearing the end of their incredible 2,300-mile journey. What began as a spiritual pilgrimage has blossomed into a global conversation, sparking a fascinating "critical appreciation" among Christian communities—from the pews of the American South to faith circles in the UK.

​As I follow their journey, I find myself holding a nuanced view that merges several of these perspectives. I believe in Jesus—that He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life, and the source of ultimate peace. In that sense, I hold a conservative theological conviction. However, as many know, I am also Theologically Radical Reformed (Anabaptist) and a Red Letter Christian, which leads me to see this walk through a kind lens. Also as a Theologian and Social Scientist I can look at these things through the lens of an anthropologist. 

​1. The Progressive Voice: "Modern Magi on the Road"

​For some Progressive and Red Letter Christians, the monks’ arrival has been seen as a providential moment. In Alabama, Methodist Pastor Patrick Hitchman-Craig made waves by hosting the monks on Christmas night, offering a perspective that I find particularly striking:

​"The arrival of the barefoot monks felt like the Magi arriving on Jesus’ birthday—a powerful, sacrificial witness for peace that stands close to the heart of Jesus."


​Viewing these travelers as "modern Magi" reminds us that God can use unexpected voices to point us toward the message of goodwill.

​2. A Disgraceful Contrast: When "Religion" Meets Peace

​It is impossible to discuss this walk without addressing the disgraceful behavior of certain hecklers. In Georgia and Tennessee, the monks were met by individuals using bullhorns to scream that they were "walking to hell."

​To many onlookers, these scenes were heartbreaking. There is a profound irony in using a megaphone to shout down people walking barefoot in freezing temperatures to promote kindness. I find it striking that some Christians have suggested "Jesus would have washed their feet, not screamed at them." They also point to the story of the Good Samaritan. Are the Monks the neighbor being mistreated or are they the good Samaritan? Food for thought. 

The monks’ response has been a masterclass in the very peace they advocate:

  • ​Noble Silence: They didn't shout back; they chose to "let the noise pass through them." They turned the other cheek.
  • ​Compassionate Deflection: When blocked, they simply bowed and said, "I wish you well." They gave kindness to those giving injury. 
  • ​The Teaching of the Mirror: They showed that anger is like holding a hot coal—you are the one who gets burned. The Bible speaks about doing good to enemies and it being like hot coals on them. A fascinating link. 

​3. The Anabaptist Echo: "The Way of Non-Resistance"

​As a Radical Reformed/Anabaptist, I find a profound resonance here. With a 500-year heritage of pacifism, our tradition recognizes the monks' refusal to retaliate as a familiar "discipleship of the feet." It is about the cost of peace and the strength it takes to stay silent and loving when the world is screaming.

​4. The Moderate & Conservative Reflection: "Bridges and Boundaries"

​Moderate Christians see a victory for civic harmony, while Conservatives offer a measured respect. Even those who hold firm to exclusive theological claims—as I do regarding the person of Jesus—have not appreciated the hecklers. We believe that being a "defender of the faith" should never mean being a bully to your neighbor. It is by love that we will be known as Jesus' disciples, not by shouting obscenities in people's faces. 

​The Unifying Factor: Aloka the Peace Dog

​Perhaps the most unexpected ambassador has been Aloka the Peace Dog. This resilient stray, with the white heart on his forehead, has melted barriers that theology sometimes builds. Whether a Christian is progressive or conservative, we find a common language in the loyalty of a dog who has walked 2,000 miles to stay by his friends' side.

​As the monks and Aloka prepare for their final steps in Washington, D.C., they leave behind a challenge: How can we walk for peace, both within our hearts and in our neighborhoods, with quiet, sacrificial grace? How can we share kind and respectful space with people of other faiths whilst maintaining and deepening our own roots in the exclusive claims of Christ? 


A Highland Theological College graduate and non-conformist follower of Jesus living at the crossroads of neurodiversity and faith. Writing through the lens of the proverbial Forest Parish on the wild grace of the Gospel.

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