What's Happening?
The Trumbull County Historical Society and the Warren Trumbull County Public Library are co-hosting a VIP luncheon featuring Rev. Harold Good, a renowned worldwide peacemaker. The event is scheduled for November 12, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. at West and Main,
located at 187 W Market St, Warren, Ohio. Rev. Good, who is the featured speaker of the McFarland Speaker Series, will discuss his extensive work in advancing peace and reconciliation globally. Born in Northern Ireland, Rev. Good was ordained in the Methodist ministry and holds a master of sacred theology from Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis, Indiana. He previously served as a youth minister at First Methodist Church in Warren from 1964-1966 before returning to Ireland. His career highlights include serving as an independent eyewitness to the decommissioning of Irish Republican Army weapons in 2005 and working on weapons disposal with FARC in Colombia and ETA in the Basque Country. He has received numerous accolades, including being appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire. The luncheon will offer an Irish-inspired entree, an appetizer or salad, and one alcoholic beverage ticket per guest, with lunch served at noon. Tickets are priced at $50 per person.
Why It's Important?
This event is significant for Trumbull County as it brings a figure of international peace and reconciliation to a local U.S. community. Rev. Harold Good's presence offers a unique opportunity for residents to engage with and learn from someone with firsthand experience in complex global peace processes. His insights into conflict resolution, disarmament, and cross-cultural understanding can provide valuable perspectives for local leaders, community organizers, and the general public. The McFarland Speaker Series, which facilitates this event, aims to enrich the community by bringing in distinguished speakers. Such engagements can foster a greater understanding of global issues and inspire local initiatives for peace and community building. For attendees, it's a chance to hear about historical events like the Irish Republican Army's decommissioning and the peace efforts in Colombia and the Basque Country directly from a key participant, potentially broadening their worldview and encouraging civic engagement.
What's Next?
Following the luncheon, Rev. Harold Good will continue his engagement as part of the McFarland Speaker Series, sharing his experiences and insights. The event itself is a one-time engagement for Rev. Good in Trumbull County on the specified date. The McFarland Speaker Series, a partnership between the Warren-Trumbull County Public Library and the Trumbull County Historical Society, will likely continue to host similar events in the future, bringing other notable speakers to the community. The series is supported by Jim McFarland, a former Trumbull County resident, ensuring its continuation and impact on community enrichment. Attendees may be inspired to explore further the topics of peace, reconciliation, and international relations, potentially leading to local discussions or initiatives. The event also serves to highlight the ongoing efforts of the Trumbull County Historical Society and the Warren-Trumbull County Public Library in providing educational and culturally enriching programs.
Beyond the Headlines
The visit of Rev. Harold Good to Trumbull County transcends a typical community event by bringing a global narrative of peace and conflict resolution to a local American setting. His work, particularly in witnessing the decommissioning of weapons by groups like the Irish Republican Army and FARC, highlights the intricate and often delicate nature of achieving lasting peace. This event underscores the universal relevance of peacemaking, demonstrating that lessons learned in international conflicts can offer profound insights into resolving local disputes and fostering community cohesion. It also subtly emphasizes the role of individuals, even those from a religious background, in shaping geopolitical outcomes and promoting humanitarian values. The engagement with such a figure can inspire a deeper appreciation for diplomacy, non-violent action, and the long-term commitment required for reconciliation, potentially influencing how local communities approach their own challenges and divisions.
