Social Concerns Column for September 11, 2011

And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off? -- Luke 18:7

Building Communities of Salt and Light: Developing Effective Social Ministry (November 5th).  
If you are a looking to make your parish’s Social Justice or Respect Life Ministry more effective this conference is for you.  The Diocese of Oakland’s Office for Life and Justice in partnership with Catholic Relief Service and JustFaith Ministries will be hosting a special training for Social Justice and Respect Life Ministers at Christ the Light Cathedral Conference Center in Oakland .  Tom Ulrich, Direct for Parish Outreach at Catholic Relief Service and author of Strategies for Success: Parish Social Ministry will lead a discussion around how to develop thriving parish social ministry.  Saturday, November 5th, 2011 (9:00 – 3:00 PM), Christ the Light Cathedral Conference Center, for more information: John Watkins (jwatkins@oakdiocese.org, 510-267-8379).

US Bishops in Solidarity with the Church in Africa.  

"Responding to the call of the Church in Africa, as pastors in the United States we recognize the mutual bonds of solidarity that unite us -- bonds that have been forged through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. We stand in solidarity with the Church and the peoples of Africa, to recognize and support their courageous commitment to peace, justice, and reconciliation . As we do this, we are reminded of the words of the Holy Father: 'Africa is not destined for death, but for life!' "  (United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, A Call to Solidarity with Africa, 2001).  For more information, visit the website of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops: http://old.usccb.org/churchinafrica/

Torture is a Moral Issue: Study Guide from US Bishops. 
Waterboarding? Electric Shocks? What does the Church have to say about torture? This four chapter study guide offers reflections on torture as a moral issue. Get a group together to discuss this timely issue and what you can do to stop torture.  Actions include fasting for justice and peace, praying for enemies, overcoming evil with goodness, and advocating for the abolition of torture.  We, as Catholic voters, have a voice with our Congresspersons.  For detailed information, search for "stop torture" on the home page of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, or go to: http://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/human-life-and-dignity/war/torture/torture-is-a-moral-issue.cfm

Would you like to pursue a social justice project? The St. Michael Parish Social Concerns Ministry would like to help you to help others!  Call Joanne, 443-1422.

He does execute justice for the fatherless and widow, and loves the foreigner, in giving him food and clothing. --Deuteronomy 10:18