The next few weeks bring a flurry of issues to our attention: the ongoing Season of Creation asks us to reflect on ecological justice, as well as the upcoming release of Pope Francis’s apostolic exhortation on Laudato Si’; October marks Respect Life month, with a focus on “radical solidarity” with mothers in need; and the World Day for Refugees invites us to recognize and work to uphold the rights of migrants. Such a variety of large issues can seem overwhelming; let us pray for God to grant us the peace that surpasses all understanding and for our work to be like the mustard seed that grows into the “largest of plants” (Matthew 13:31). | |
CMSM is pleased to announce a compilation of JPIC resources available for JPIC coordinators or leaders of communities in the new Member Content area of our website. If you are interested in gaining access to these resources, please email David Rohrer Budiash for instructions on how to sign up. | |
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On September 24, 2023, the Catholic Church marked the 109th World Day of Migrants and Refugees (WMDR). This day is an invitation to reflect on the messages from the Holy Father. Resources for this occasion can be found at the Vatican’s Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development (IHD). The global community needs to work together to recognize and uphold the right of individuals to live peacefully in their homeland.
This video featuring Msgr. Anthony Ekpo of IHD and Mira Milavec discusses the freedom to migrate in relation to the war in Ukraine.
The U.S. Catholic bishops’ Justice for Immigrants Campaign (JFI) also has resources on the root causes of migration, among many others.
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Laudato Si’ Apostolic Exhortation Coming Soon
Pope Francis announced recently that he would publish an exhortation dealing with current issues related to his 2015 encyclical, Laudato Si’. Set to publish on October 4, the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, few other details have been released.
Read more here and here.
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Oblate of St. Francis de Sales Helps Negotiate a ‘Fragile’ Haiti Gang Truce
Philadelphia-born Father Thomas Hagan facilitated a truce among multiple gang leaders in Haiti, urging them to foster peace and security in the nation currently plagued by civil unrest and violence. Despite being stationed in Haiti’s turbulent environment since 1997, Hagan continues his mission through his non-profit, “Hands Together,” addressing educational and healthcare needs in the impoverished regions of Haiti. In July 2023, he successfully brought four gang leaders to commit to peace through a digitally documented agreement, fostering dialogue through the Whatsapp platform. Amid the challenges, he remains steadfast in his faith and his dedication to helping Haitians realize a brighter future, fostering unity and understanding among communities.
Read more here.
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Seitz: Jesus Compels Us To ‘Respond With Charity,’ Address ‘Coercive Forces’ Driving Migrants
During the U.S. National Migration Week, Bishop Mark J. Seitz and Pope Francis highlighted the necessity of transforming migration into a choice, not a desperate escape from poverty or fear. Both leaders urged collaborative efforts to address the root causes forcing people to migrate, emphasizing the importance of fostering conditions that promote integral human development. They advocated for creating an environment where individuals can opt to stay in their home countries without being pressured by adverse conditions. Seitz echoed Pope Francis' message, urging for divine support to protect those vulnerable to the pressures of migration. Their stance aligns with the Catholic Church's teaching which underscores a balance between migrants' rights to seek a better life and the nations' responsibilities to regulate their borders justly and compassionately.
Read more here and here.
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USAID announces ‘religious engagement policy’ aimed at partnering with faith groups
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) unveiled its "first-ever religious engagement policy" aimed at fostering closer ties with religious communities and faith-based organizations to enhance global aid efforts. The policy, called "Building Bridges in Development: USAID’s Strategic Religious Engagement Policy," outlines a strategy for greater collaboration and integration of religious groups into humanitarian and development initiatives. This new approach, developed after extensive consultations with religious groups, is expected to adapt according to local contexts and promote innovative partnerships. Bill O'Keefe from Catholic Relief Services welcomed the initiative, emphasizing its potential to bolster cooperation and improve humanitarian responses if properly implemented. Meanwhile, concerns remain regarding the potential influence of USAID's current administrator, Samantha Power, with past allegations pointing to a possible pro-abortion stance influencing the agency's directions.
Read more here.
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Respect Life Month Statement: Living in Radical Solidarity
In his statement for Respect Life Month, October 2023, Reverend Michael F. Burbidge urges people to foster a culture of life through "radical solidarity", a concept introduced by St. John Paul II, which promotes active support and companionship for women facing pregnancy or child-rearing in challenging circumstances. He emphasizes that changing the existing culture involves not only advocating for pro-life laws but also personal transformations to genuinely prioritize the needs of these women. The initiative "Walking with Moms in Need" exemplifies this approach by mobilizing parishes to actively support mothers in crisis situations, both materially and emotionally. Reverend Burbidge encourages individuals to leverage their unique gifts in assisting mothers and nurturing a culture that cherishes life. Lastly, he calls for deepened personal commitment and collective efforts to create a supportive society that recognizes the sanctity of life.
Read more here.
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Pope Francis at Mongolia charity: ‘Only love can overcome selfishness’
During his visit to Mongolia, Pope Francis inaugurated the House of Mercy, a charity aimed at assisting victims of domestic violence and other vulnerable groups in Ulaanbaatar. In his address, he emphasized the importance of selfless love and volunteering, urging people to serve others without expecting remuneration or personal benefits. He refuted common myths about charity, emphasizing that altruism is not limited to the wealthy or a means to convert individuals to Christianity. Francis encouraged collaboration between local Catholics and individuals of various beliefs to provide compassionate assistance. This visit marked the first time a pope has visited Mongolia, showcasing the pope's commitment to fostering fraternity and compassion globally.
Read more here.
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Pope Francis urges faithful to ‘be close to the people of Morocco’ in wake of earthquake
On September 8, 2023, a devastating 6.8 magnitude earthquake struck Morocco, causing over 2,500 fatalities and significant destruction, particularly in the Marrakesh region. In the aftermath, Pope Francis expressed solidarity and urged for global help to support the affected population, extending prayers for the victims and appreciating the efforts of the rescue workers. The Catholic charity group Caritas Internationalis collaborated with other global branches to coordinate relief efforts and reassured their commitment to aiding the victims. The historic city of Marrakesh experienced considerable damage, with the earthquake being the deadliest in Morocco in several decades. Emergency responders are working tirelessly to rescue survivors from the earthquake's rubble, which had its epicenter about 40 miles outside Marrakesh.
Read more here.
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Upcoming JPIC Event & Job Posting | |
- Laudato Si Action Platform
- Let Justice & Peace Flow
- September 25, 2023 | 6:30 to 7:30pm CT
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Read more here.
- Deputy Director for Social and Economic Justice
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More details are available here.
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