By Pax Christi International celebrates the life of Sr. Ardeth Platte, a courageous, inspiring, peacemaker
“I refuse to have an enemy. I simply won’t.” (Sr. Ardeth Platte, to The Denver Post)
Today we not only mourn but rejoice as we remember Sr. Ardeth Platte, a Dominican sister, Plowshares activist and nuclear disarmament advocate. Through her exemplary life she modelled for all of us what it is to be a follower of the nonviolent Jesus. Sr. Ardeth’s life, similar to that of Jesus, who called her to religious life (to be with Him and to be sent out), was one of total sacrifice that fulfilled God’s plan for her. She not only advocated against the use of weapons of mass destruction but also was ready to go to prison for her opposition to their manufacturing and utilisation. Her determined spirit will be kept alive in the knowledge that one day her dream of a nuclear free world will become a reality.
We are grateful to you, Sr. Ardeth, for a life well lived, a fearless and courageous life, an exemplary life for all of us, you our loyal friend and supporter who each day endeavoured to create a culture of peace wherever you were. Indeed, those who die in the Lord and for the Lord do not really die, for their spirit lives on in those they have inspired during their lifetime. Sr. Ardeth, your spirit will live on in all of us who believe in a more just, peaceful, nonviolent and nuclear free world. It is well Sr. Ardeth: “Unless a grain of wheat dies it remains a single grain” – in your death you have watered other seeds that will grow and blossom to actualise your dream for a world free of weapons of mass destruction.
Greet Vanaerschot, Secretary General, Pax Christi International
Bishop Marc Stenger and Sr. Teresia Wamuyu Wachira (IBVM), Co-presidents, Pax Christi International