Welcome to the Beltram Peace Center blog!

THE BELTRAM PEACE CENTER is part of Gainesville, Florida's Emmanuel Mennonite Church, which initiates and hosts peacemaking events and programs for the Gainesville community. The Center is supported by a legacy from the estate of Fred Beltram, a member of Emmanuel Mennonite Church. Fred’s service in the Pacific and Europe as a non-combatant in World War II strengthened his passion for peace.

The Fair Trade Shop offers organic fair trade products in partnership with Mennonite Central committee and Equal Exchange. We sell chocolate, snacks, coffee, tea, and Palestinian olive oil at near-wholesale prices in order to raise consciousness, not funds.

The Book Store carries a selection of titles on practical Christian living, current justice issues, and peacemaking.

Interfaith Alliance for Immigrant Justice, second Mondays, 6:00 p.m., a coalition of local congregations and activists working with the Coalition of Immokalee Worker’s Fair Food Campaign and others.

Muslim-Christian conversations, second and fourth Saturdays, 10:00 -11:30 a.m., provides an opportunity for interfaith engagement at the personal level.

Talking Service, third Mondays, 7:00-8:30 p.m., a reading and discussion program for military veterans and their families, designed as a means of healing.

“BPC 270,” a new Beltram initiative that provides a place of healing and hope through creation, care, and service. Visit our member blog to learn more.

The Gallery displays paintings and photographs by local artists. Current work includes a variety of media created by our members.