COEUR d'ALENE - Coeur d'Alene Press columnist Sholeh Patrick on Sunday accepted a Peace Award from two local groups that

advocate peace, education, community service and diversity.

Bonnie Douglas, chair of Peace Coeur d'Alene, said Patrick's regular column in the Press "breaks down barriers and gives a world of understanding."

Douglas said this is the first Peace Award given out by Peace Coeur d'Alene and Diakonia of North Idaho.

Peace Coeur d'Alene works for peace and social justice through education and advocacy, and Diakonia aids interfaith communication, education and community service. It also works to confront racial prejudice, and celebrates diversity. Diakonia is a Greek word meaning "service" or "to be of service."

Patrick, 42, was specifically chosen for the honor for her journalistic work to advance the understanding of the world's major religions and peace. The award ceremony was at Greenbriar Inn, 315 E. Wallace Ave.

Douglas, of Fernan Village, said the columns are "a big departure from so much of the language of fear and domination that can be heard so often."

Patrick, who has been writing a column for the Press for seven years, said she was humbled by the honor, and recognized the work of the two groups and hopes it continues.

Patrick said the Coeur d'Alene area was very different when she moved here 11 years ago.

"There's more diversity. Different opinions are being expressed, more and more, little by little, in this community," she said. "I see positive growth. Maybe some of what we're doing is taking hold."

Garry Loeffler, who co-chairs Diakonia with Douglas, said Patrick's columns are very insightful and help people understand more about different religions. The columns fight against cultural and religious stereotyping and labeling, he said.

"There are many positive influences that come from religions and people's faith," said Loeffler, of Coeur d'Alene. The columns "opened up people's eyes to religions they may not have experienced."

Patrick said she enjoys the challenge of writing, and much of what she writes is the product of her research. Her topics range from community and social issues to the news of the day, she said.

Patrick is the wife of Mike Patrick, managing editor of the Coeur d'Alene Press.