It's Biblical:

 

• Reconciliation is at the core of our Christian faith. Jesus led the way by reconciling us to God through the cross.
  
  Let us make every effort to do what leads to peace and mutual edification (Romans 14:19)
  
  
• God has given authority to the church to resolve disputes.
  
  If your brother sins against you, go and show him his fault, just between the two of you. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over. But if he will not listen, take one or two others along, so that every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses. (Matthew 18:15-16)

It's Practical:

• The court system is expensive and adversarial.
• Dealing with root issues (i.e. matters of the heart) leads to lasting resolution of conflicts.

It's Powerful:

• Peace is a powerful witness in our community.
• The Holy Spirit accomplishes the impossible, changing people's lives.