Social Concerns Column for Sunday, January 1, 2012

Behold, my servant whom I have chosen; my beloved in whom my soul is well pleased: I will put my Spirit on him. He will proclaim justice to the nations. --Matthew 12:18

Catholic World Day of Peace, January 1, 2012, Focuses on Young People. 
In building a world of peace and justice, the Catholic Church must listen to the ideas and hopes of young people and offer them educational opportunities that will strengthen their ability to work for the common good.  Catholic News Service will cover Pope Benedict XVI’s message: http://www.catholicnews.com

Catholic Social Teaching on Peace and War. 
Peace must be built on the basis of justice in a world where the personal and social consequences of sin are evident. --The Challenge of Peace: God’s Promise and Our Response, pastoral letter from the US Bishops, #56, http://tinyurl.com/TheChallengeofPeace

Bishops Response to Human Trafficking.
As a global institution, the Catholic Church, well positioned to respond to human trafficking, has denounced this horrific crime because it constitutes an offense against human dignity and fundamental human rights. The reality of thousands of our brothers and sisters laboring in modern day slavery compels us to act now to stop human trafficking and to serve the survivors of this crime. “On Human Trafficking” addresses the reality of trafficking, U.S. response to it, Catholic teaching and trafficking, and a call to action: http://www.usccb.org/about/human-trafficking/

Livermore Homeless Refuge Saves Lives, Needs You. 
The Refuge opened November 1st and volunteers are working tirelessly to provide a warm and safe place to sleep for the approximately 100 homeless of Livermore.  To volunteer to clean up, staff a shift, lend a helping hand, please contact: Donna and Bob McKenzie at 443-7389 or cell 895-4167.

Jesuit Priest Inducted into California Hall of Fame. 
Fr. Greg Boyle, SJ, was recognized for his work with at-risk and gang-involved youth in Los Angeles with his Homeboy Industries program. Learn more: http://homeboy-industries.org

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 won't break a bruised reed. He won't quench a smoking flax, until he leads justice to victory.  --Matthew 12:20