Challenging Unjust Governments: Outrageous conditions have been tacked on to acclaimed Iranian film director Jafar Panahi's six-year prison sentence. Last month, Panahi was sentenced after being convicted of making an anti-government film without permission and inciting opposition protests after the disputed 2009 presidential election. Urge Ayatollah Sayed Ali Khamenei and his Excellency to overturn the harsh sentences imposed on Jafar Panahi and Mohammad Rasoulof.
Challenging Unjust Government Systems: President Barack Obama says he wants Congress to implement the largest trade deal since NAFTA – the Korea Free Trade Agreement. It has NAFTA-style provisions that promote job off-shoring and undermine labor, environmental, and other public interest laws that Obama promised to reform as a candidate. Call U.S. Representatives at 202.224.3121 urging them to oppose this trade deal or take other actions here.
Care of Earth: Sign a letter that will be delivered to US Department of Agriculture Secretary Vilsack and President Obama requesting that they reject approval of Monsanto's GMO alfalfa.
Other Potential Actions:
U.S. citizens are invited to urge their federal Representative to stand up for the United Nations and the UN programs and agencies that support American and global interests at
U.S. citizens are invited to send a message to federal Representatives urging them to keep the unemployed, those living in poverty, and those struggling to recover from the recession as a priority when it comes to spending. Maintaining spending at 2008 levels leaves the bulk of spending cuts to programs that help communities and states with basic services like healthcare, housing and transportation.
Protect Life Act: This bill will amend the health care reform law to preserve longstanding federal policies on abortion and conscience rights. Co-sponsors of H.R. 358 include Rep. Geoff Davis, Rep. Brett Guthrie, Rep. Hal Rogers, and Rep. Ed Whitfield. A thank you for co-sponsorship and urging of those who have not yet can be made by calling U.S. Representatives or visit here.
On February 11 – 13, faith communities are invited to preach and discuss the issue of global warming. More information is here (scroll down and look to the left)
Louisville, KY: On January 30 at 4 p.m., there will be an Interfaith Memorial Service at Christ Church Cathedral (421 South Second Street) to remember the lives of 62 homicide victims of 2010.
Louisville, KY: Individuals are invited to a slide presentation and talk by Terry Taylor of Interfaiths Path to Peace on the topic, “Iran: Up Close and Personal” on January 30 at 7 p.m. in Aloysius Hall of St. Agnes Church (1920 Newburg Road). Terry took a trip in November 2010 as part of a 10-person Citizen Diplomacy team sponsored by the national Fellowship of Reconciliation.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Weekly Justice Highlights
Human Trafficking: An opportunity to oppose human trafficking is being offered to the international community. Tell the Super Bowl Host Committee that they have a responsibility to protect the children who will be trafficked to Texas (USA) for the Super Bowl (Click non US near the word, "State" at the website for international action).
Challenging unjust corporate systems: Send a message to the CEO’s of chocolate companies in Ivory Coast (who are on the brink of war) urging them to back democracy and peace by publicly committing to work only with President Alassane Ouattara’s democratically elected government (International Action is available).
Care of Earth: At the end of 2010, the Department of the Interior decided to establish a system that would identify and protect irreplaceable and unique wild lands in the Western United States. Write Secretary Ken Salazar a thank you for his efforts (Kenneth Salazar, Department of the Interior, 1849 C Street N.W., Washington, DC 20240).
Care of Earth: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced its decision to protect mountain communities and the health of Appalachian citizens by vetoing the largest sing mountaintop removal coal mining permit in West Virginia history, the Spruce No. 1 Mine. Thank the EPA for taking this bold step and urge Federal Legislators to follow the EPA by making the protections permanent.
Other Potential Actions:
Call and urge members of Congress to continue supporting the rebuilding efforts of Haiti. A voice resolution is being made so you may call 1.646.452.9493 (enter pin number 3804) to state your name and where you are from. Then, state that we need to keep our promise and stand with Haiti. This nationwide voice resolution will be shared with members of Congress. Written action is available.
Just days after the hugely successful action at Northwest Farm Credit Services where Ruby Ridge workers turned in over 32,300 signatures, Ruby Ridge dairy has now renewed their threat to take legal action against many of these workers and the UFW. Send an email to CEO of Northwest Farm Credit Services to take immediate action and use their influence to ensure that Ruby Ridge doesn’t continue retaliating against these workers at
Urge Illinois Governor Pat Quinn to abolish the death penalty.
Join a solidarity protest as a National Day of Action on January 25 at noon on the corner of Sixth and Chestnut (Mazzoli Federal Building) to challenge late 2010 raids, questioning by FBI agents, being subpoenaed before a Grand Jury and reactivation of subpeonas on activists who oppose the war.
On February 11 – 13, faith communities are invited to preach and discuss the issue of global warming (scroll down and look to the left).
The story of “One Family in Gaza” by acclaimed independent filmmaker Jen Marlowe is a 23 minute documentary of courage and resilience.
The Catholic Health Association has partnered with Practice Greenhealth to promote a new electronic resource—the Environmental Sustainability Getting Started Guide. The booklet shares practices and resources from across Catholic health ministry and other leaders in environmental stewardship.
Challenging unjust corporate systems: Send a message to the CEO’s of chocolate companies in Ivory Coast (who are on the brink of war) urging them to back democracy and peace by publicly committing to work only with President Alassane Ouattara’s democratically elected government (International Action is available).
Care of Earth: At the end of 2010, the Department of the Interior decided to establish a system that would identify and protect irreplaceable and unique wild lands in the Western United States. Write Secretary Ken Salazar a thank you for his efforts (Kenneth Salazar, Department of the Interior, 1849 C Street N.W., Washington, DC 20240).
Care of Earth: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced its decision to protect mountain communities and the health of Appalachian citizens by vetoing the largest sing mountaintop removal coal mining permit in West Virginia history, the Spruce No. 1 Mine. Thank the EPA for taking this bold step and urge Federal Legislators to follow the EPA by making the protections permanent.
Other Potential Actions:
Call and urge members of Congress to continue supporting the rebuilding efforts of Haiti. A voice resolution is being made so you may call 1.646.452.9493 (enter pin number 3804) to state your name and where you are from. Then, state that we need to keep our promise and stand with Haiti. This nationwide voice resolution will be shared with members of Congress. Written action is available.
Just days after the hugely successful action at Northwest Farm Credit Services where Ruby Ridge workers turned in over 32,300 signatures, Ruby Ridge dairy has now renewed their threat to take legal action against many of these workers and the UFW. Send an email to CEO of Northwest Farm Credit Services to take immediate action and use their influence to ensure that Ruby Ridge doesn’t continue retaliating against these workers at
Urge Illinois Governor Pat Quinn to abolish the death penalty.
Join a solidarity protest as a National Day of Action on January 25 at noon on the corner of Sixth and Chestnut (Mazzoli Federal Building) to challenge late 2010 raids, questioning by FBI agents, being subpoenaed before a Grand Jury and reactivation of subpeonas on activists who oppose the war.
On February 11 – 13, faith communities are invited to preach and discuss the issue of global warming (scroll down and look to the left).
The story of “One Family in Gaza” by acclaimed independent filmmaker Jen Marlowe is a 23 minute documentary of courage and resilience.
The Catholic Health Association has partnered with Practice Greenhealth to promote a new electronic resource—the Environmental Sustainability Getting Started Guide. The booklet shares practices and resources from across Catholic health ministry and other leaders in environmental stewardship.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Weekly Justice Highlights
Care of Earth: The U.S. Department of Agriculture is about to approve Monsanto's genetically engineered (GE) alfalfa, despite the fact that it's likely to contaminate other crops, including organic alfalfa. Contamination of organic crops from GE crops can destroy markets for organic farmers. Urge President Obama and the US Department of Agriculture to preserve organic and reject GE alfalfa.
Care of Earth: The Oil Spill Commission recently released the full version of its comprehensive report on the BP oil disaster which concludes that systemic failures throughout the oil industry mean that a similar catastrophe “might well recur.” Urge Congress to implement the Commission’s recommendations to support restoration of the Gulf and protect all U.S. coasts from future disasters.
Water: Members of the U.S. Congress spent $190,000 on bottled water in the first quarter of 2010. Recently the general manager of DC Water and Sewage Authority sent Speaker Boehner a letter urging him to cut expenses, protect the environment and support investment in the nation’s drinking water infrastructure by choosing tap water. Ask U.S. Representatives to support fiscal responsibility by cutting spending on bottled water.
Water: Clay County (Kentucky) is scheduled to have a public hearing on a coal companies’ proposal to mine in the cleanest section of Kentucky River’s South Fork. Written comments to support the community’s petition are being accepted until January 14 at
Other Potential Actions:
Urge the Obama Administration to exert real pressure on Israel to end its illegal siege of the Gaza Strip, and to stop preventing the United Nations from holding Israel accountable for what the Goldstone Report documented to be violations of human rights and international law, war crimes, and possible crimes against humanity committed before, during and after “Cast Lead.”
Bees are dying off and our entire food chain is in danger. Scientists are saying toxic pesticides are the cause. Four European governments have banned them but they are still for sale in the United States. Urge EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson to join the ban and save the bees from extinction.
Illinois legislators recently passed a bill that is now with the Governor to abolish the death penalty in their state. Individuals are invited to thank the bill sponsors, State Rep. Karen Yarbrough and State Senator Kwame Raoul.
Louisville, KY: An LG& E neighborhood meeting on coal ash organizing will take place on January 27 at 6:30 p.m. at Millcreek VFW Post 5421 (7111 Lower Hunters Trace, Louisville, KY 40258) 502.448.5421. LG& E plans to build a 14 story tall Coal Ash containment expansion in the area of West Louisville. Anyone concerned about water, air and our neighborhoods is invited. For more details contact Thomas Pearce at 502.614.8172.
KY: If you haven’t called State Representatives about SB6, an immigration bill worse than Arizona SB 1070, please do so at 1-800-372-7181 urging opposition of the bill and tell others to call too.
Care of Earth: The Oil Spill Commission recently released the full version of its comprehensive report on the BP oil disaster which concludes that systemic failures throughout the oil industry mean that a similar catastrophe “might well recur.” Urge Congress to implement the Commission’s recommendations to support restoration of the Gulf and protect all U.S. coasts from future disasters.
Water: Members of the U.S. Congress spent $190,000 on bottled water in the first quarter of 2010. Recently the general manager of DC Water and Sewage Authority sent Speaker Boehner a letter urging him to cut expenses, protect the environment and support investment in the nation’s drinking water infrastructure by choosing tap water. Ask U.S. Representatives to support fiscal responsibility by cutting spending on bottled water.
Water: Clay County (Kentucky) is scheduled to have a public hearing on a coal companies’ proposal to mine in the cleanest section of Kentucky River’s South Fork. Written comments to support the community’s petition are being accepted until January 14 at
Other Potential Actions:
Urge the Obama Administration to exert real pressure on Israel to end its illegal siege of the Gaza Strip, and to stop preventing the United Nations from holding Israel accountable for what the Goldstone Report documented to be violations of human rights and international law, war crimes, and possible crimes against humanity committed before, during and after “Cast Lead.”
Bees are dying off and our entire food chain is in danger. Scientists are saying toxic pesticides are the cause. Four European governments have banned them but they are still for sale in the United States. Urge EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson to join the ban and save the bees from extinction.
Illinois legislators recently passed a bill that is now with the Governor to abolish the death penalty in their state. Individuals are invited to thank the bill sponsors, State Rep. Karen Yarbrough and State Senator Kwame Raoul.
Louisville, KY: An LG& E neighborhood meeting on coal ash organizing will take place on January 27 at 6:30 p.m. at Millcreek VFW Post 5421 (7111 Lower Hunters Trace, Louisville, KY 40258) 502.448.5421. LG& E plans to build a 14 story tall Coal Ash containment expansion in the area of West Louisville. Anyone concerned about water, air and our neighborhoods is invited. For more details contact Thomas Pearce at 502.614.8172.
KY: If you haven’t called State Representatives about SB6, an immigration bill worse than Arizona SB 1070, please do so at 1-800-372-7181 urging opposition of the bill and tell others to call too.
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Accomplishments on Legislation
October to December 2010
START Treaty: This bill reduces the U.S. and Russian nuclear arsenals in verifiable ways.
Unemployment Insurance: A 13 month extension for unemployed workers and their families was included in the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010.
Child Tax Credit (CTC) and Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): Passed in the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization and Job Creation Act of 2010, this keeps millions of Americans from falling into poverty and reduces the severity of poverty for millions more.
Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act: This bill reauthorizes child nutrition programs, was enacted on December 13. It provides $4.5 billion over 10 years for better child nutrition through more afterschool and summer meals, higher reimbursements to school lunch providers, improved administration of WIC and meals programs, including easier enrollment of children, and more funding for WIC program improvements.
FDA Food Safety Modernization Act: This food safety law will preserve local control for small farms and processing. Included in this bill is a Tester-Hagan amendment applies screens for geography, scale and direct sales to end users to define farms and small processing facilities that would not be subjected to industrial scale regulations enforced by the Food and Drug Administration. Rather existing state and local public health and sanitation laws will apply to these small businesses.
Burmese Political Prisoner: Aung San Suu Kyi, a Burmese prisoner, was freed in mid-November. Suu Kyi is a human rights and pro-democracy leader who had been held in detention or house arrest in Myanmar for 15 of the last 21 years. Amnesty International advocated for this Nobel Laureate over the course of two decades. Although she was recently barred from participating in the first elections her country has held in 20 years, we welcome the news of her freedom.
Smith coal plant in KY: The Smith plant was cancelled in November. The coal-burning power plant proposed by the East Kentucky Power Cooperative (EKPC) was cancelled by the utility. EKPC entered into an agreement with KFTC (KY For The Commonwealth), the Kentucky Environmental Foundation, the Sierra Club, the Kentucky Office of Attorney General and a number of its customers, committing to halt its plans for two proposed coal-burning power plants in Clark County, one that’s already under construction and a second it planned for the future. Additionally, EKPC committed $125,000 toward a collaborative effort in which the public interest groups, EKPC and its member co-ops, and other parties will work together to evaluate and recommend new energy efficiency programs and renewable energy options.
Offshore Oil Drilling: Secretary of Interior, Ken Salazar announced in December that there would be no new offshore drilling off the Atlantic and Pacific coasts or in the Eastern Gulf of Mexico for the next five years.
Glacier National Park and Oil Drilling: Oil companies voluntarily gave up plans to drill on more than 80% of the area near Flathead River Valley. Thousands of signatures were sent to Secretary of the Interior, Ken Salazar and many organized in preparation for hearings and other events.
START Treaty: This bill reduces the U.S. and Russian nuclear arsenals in verifiable ways.
Unemployment Insurance: A 13 month extension for unemployed workers and their families was included in the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010.
Child Tax Credit (CTC) and Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): Passed in the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization and Job Creation Act of 2010, this keeps millions of Americans from falling into poverty and reduces the severity of poverty for millions more.
Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act: This bill reauthorizes child nutrition programs, was enacted on December 13. It provides $4.5 billion over 10 years for better child nutrition through more afterschool and summer meals, higher reimbursements to school lunch providers, improved administration of WIC and meals programs, including easier enrollment of children, and more funding for WIC program improvements.
FDA Food Safety Modernization Act: This food safety law will preserve local control for small farms and processing. Included in this bill is a Tester-Hagan amendment applies screens for geography, scale and direct sales to end users to define farms and small processing facilities that would not be subjected to industrial scale regulations enforced by the Food and Drug Administration. Rather existing state and local public health and sanitation laws will apply to these small businesses.
Burmese Political Prisoner: Aung San Suu Kyi, a Burmese prisoner, was freed in mid-November. Suu Kyi is a human rights and pro-democracy leader who had been held in detention or house arrest in Myanmar for 15 of the last 21 years. Amnesty International advocated for this Nobel Laureate over the course of two decades. Although she was recently barred from participating in the first elections her country has held in 20 years, we welcome the news of her freedom.
Smith coal plant in KY: The Smith plant was cancelled in November. The coal-burning power plant proposed by the East Kentucky Power Cooperative (EKPC) was cancelled by the utility. EKPC entered into an agreement with KFTC (KY For The Commonwealth), the Kentucky Environmental Foundation, the Sierra Club, the Kentucky Office of Attorney General and a number of its customers, committing to halt its plans for two proposed coal-burning power plants in Clark County, one that’s already under construction and a second it planned for the future. Additionally, EKPC committed $125,000 toward a collaborative effort in which the public interest groups, EKPC and its member co-ops, and other parties will work together to evaluate and recommend new energy efficiency programs and renewable energy options.
Offshore Oil Drilling: Secretary of Interior, Ken Salazar announced in December that there would be no new offshore drilling off the Atlantic and Pacific coasts or in the Eastern Gulf of Mexico for the next five years.
Glacier National Park and Oil Drilling: Oil companies voluntarily gave up plans to drill on more than 80% of the area near Flathead River Valley. Thousands of signatures were sent to Secretary of the Interior, Ken Salazar and many organized in preparation for hearings and other events.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Weekly Justice Highlights
Great News: The House of Representatives passed the DREAM Act and the legislation moves to the Senate. You are invited to call Senators urging them to vote for cloture and support the DREAM Act.
Challenging Unjust Governments: Urge Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to safeguard people’s interest by opposing this dangerous nuclear power plant (International Action available)
Challenging Unjust Governments: Five months ago the government of Guatemala agreed to suspend operations at the Marlin Gold Mine in San Marcus due to environmental concerns and social conflicts in the area. Today it is still up and running without addressing the concerns. Urge the Guatemalan government to suspend operations to protect health, safety and livelihoods of those in the area (International Action available)
Nuclear Weapons: The U.S. Catholic Bishops are urging calls to Senators in support of the START Treaty.
Other Potential Actions
U.S. citizens are urged to contact Representatives and Senators urging them to approve the National Housing Trust Fund before the end of the year recess and to contact leadership in their legislative body to assure funding for NHTF.
Urge Congress and President Obama to restore vital Supplemental Security Income (SSI) to thousands of refugees who are seniors or have disabilities and who lost these benefits on September 30, 2010.
Send a thank you to Secretary of the Interior, Ken Salazar and President Obama who stated that there will be NO new offshore drilling off the Atlantic and Pacific coasts or in the Eastern Gulf of Mexico for the next five years. Be patient the form will show up.
China helped finance genocide in Darfur through its oil purchases and supplied the genocidaires with weapons. Beijing has repeatedly used its influence to shield members of the regime in Khartoum from international pressure and last month tried to bury a U.N. Report that says Chinese bullets were used in Darfur. Tell U.S. Ambassador Susan Rice to hold China accountable and demand it join international efforts to promote peace in Sudan.
Individuals are invited to extend their personal wishes and prayers for our sisters and brothers in Bethlehem during this upcoming Christmas season before January 7, 2011 (Eastern Christmas) to the Arab Educational Institute at info@aeicenter.org. View sample messages
Resource for World Peace Day, January 1, 2011.
Kentucky: Kentuckians for the Commonwealth is asking individuals to sign the Land Unsuitable for Mining petition that is intended to protect three tributaries of the South Fork of the Kentucky River, Upper and Lower Teges Creeks and Cane Creek (scroll down to take action)
Challenging Unjust Governments: Urge Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to safeguard people’s interest by opposing this dangerous nuclear power plant (International Action available)
Challenging Unjust Governments: Five months ago the government of Guatemala agreed to suspend operations at the Marlin Gold Mine in San Marcus due to environmental concerns and social conflicts in the area. Today it is still up and running without addressing the concerns. Urge the Guatemalan government to suspend operations to protect health, safety and livelihoods of those in the area (International Action available)
Nuclear Weapons: The U.S. Catholic Bishops are urging calls to Senators in support of the START Treaty.
Other Potential Actions
U.S. citizens are urged to contact Representatives and Senators urging them to approve the National Housing Trust Fund before the end of the year recess and to contact leadership in their legislative body to assure funding for NHTF.
Urge Congress and President Obama to restore vital Supplemental Security Income (SSI) to thousands of refugees who are seniors or have disabilities and who lost these benefits on September 30, 2010.
Send a thank you to Secretary of the Interior, Ken Salazar and President Obama who stated that there will be NO new offshore drilling off the Atlantic and Pacific coasts or in the Eastern Gulf of Mexico for the next five years. Be patient the form will show up.
China helped finance genocide in Darfur through its oil purchases and supplied the genocidaires with weapons. Beijing has repeatedly used its influence to shield members of the regime in Khartoum from international pressure and last month tried to bury a U.N. Report that says Chinese bullets were used in Darfur. Tell U.S. Ambassador Susan Rice to hold China accountable and demand it join international efforts to promote peace in Sudan.
Individuals are invited to extend their personal wishes and prayers for our sisters and brothers in Bethlehem during this upcoming Christmas season before January 7, 2011 (Eastern Christmas) to the Arab Educational Institute at info@aeicenter.org. View sample messages
Resource for World Peace Day, January 1, 2011.
Kentucky: Kentuckians for the Commonwealth is asking individuals to sign the Land Unsuitable for Mining petition that is intended to protect three tributaries of the South Fork of the Kentucky River, Upper and Lower Teges Creeks and Cane Creek (scroll down to take action)
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Action Alert
December 2010 / January 2011
Ministering on the Margins: Migration, Immigration and Human Trafficking
Ministering on the Margins: Migration, Immigration and Human Trafficking
While the words seem to be inclusive of much work and depth, this 2008 General Assembly Directive phrase of “ministering on the margins” has brought us to a new vantage point as a community and family. Toward this endeavor, a pause is being taken to reflect upon and celebrate the growth we have made together during this past year.
• Co-sponsored, read and shared the Stop Trafficking Newsletter
• Learned about and joined through our actions the United Nations Blue Heart Campaign Against Human Trafficking
• Displayed solidarity in opposition to trafficking through static UN Symbol on car window
• Educated self and others through our ministries
• Promoted awareness of human trafficking around the World Cup in Africa, the Equestrian Games in USA and the Commonwealth Games in India
• Congregational Leadership sent letters to hotels with regard to the World Cup and Equestrian Games urging actions that oppose trafficking of persons
• Awareness program on human trafficking done in 5 villages in Thanderbong (West Bengal) and people stopped sending girls to cities for menial jobs
• Self help groups provide income to reduce migration and poverty in Chaibasa (Jharkhand)
• Management of distribution shops to reduce migration and feed poor people in Chaibasa (Jharkhand)
• Income –generation projects funded by government to reduce migration and poverty in Sokho and Bakhtiarpur (Bihar)
• Sent letters to U.S. federal legislators on the Domestic Minor Sex Trafficking Deterrence and Victims Support Act of 2010
• Urged Prime Minister Putin and President Medvedev to sign the Council of Europe Convention Against Trafficking in Human Beings
• Urged Secretary of State Hillary Clinton to protect Iraqi victims from human trafficking by designating Iraqi victims of sex trafficking as a “vulnerable population” eligible for expedited refugee status
• Collaborated with St. Joseph Church in Bardstown to host education event on human trafficking
• Congregational Leadership sent letter to Archbishop Kurtz and USCCB urging them to re-inforce CST immigration prior to mid-term elections
• Congregational Leadership sent affirmation letter to American Airlines for their efforts to be alert to human trafficking
• Workshop on human trafficking conducted at Nazareth
• SCN Ministry Fund awarded money to ten different organizations across the United States and India working with migrants and prevention of human trafficking
• Highlighted the following in the monthly Action Alert: Jesus as a migrant, poverty and migration, country policies on migration, women migrants, environmental refugees, promoting fair trade to rid labor trafficking, United Nations Blue Heart Campaign, Human trafficking resources and best practices, nurturing the eye and ear toward signs of human trafficking, indicators and where to find those trafficked, analyzing systems for signs of human trafficking, and standing with those trafficked through knowledge of products made with forced and child labor.
To continue reflection, individuals are invited to return to the strategic plan from the Office of Global Ministries. In this plan, you may remember that you were invited to write your own plan on the blank space provided under Ministering on the Margins. How have I grown this year? Where is growth still needed? Upon reflection, find some special way to mark your year of accomplishments and success.
As January unfolds, the Office of Global Ministries will highlight and work on another part of the strategic plan, which is an aspect of the 2008 General Assembly Directive entitled, walking gently on Earth.
• As the birth of Christ is remembered in our Christian tradition, what signs of the Universe story are present and continue to unfold?
• How do I place the Christ story in context of the Universe Story?
• How do I place Earth and humanity in the context of the Universe Story?
• How have these contexts brought individuals to greater inclusivity of all life and more intimate union with the Divine? ________________________________________
World AIDS Day is December 1
World AIDS Day is an important reminder to us that HIV has not gone away and that much remains to be done. Last month, Pope Benedict XVI shared some thoughts on the fight against AIDS in his book, “Light of the World” that has led to some misunderstandings in the media. Within the context of the book (near the end of the tenth chapter), the writer asks the Pontiff two questions on the fight against AIDS and the use of condoms. According to an article on the Catholic Bishops of India website, the “Pope reaffirms that ‘naturally the Church does not consider condoms as the authentic and moral solution’ to the problem of AIDS. At the same time the Pope considers an exceptional circumstance in which the exercise of sexuality represents a real threat for the life of another.”
In the Pontiff’s words, "There may be a basis in the case of some individuals, as perhaps when a male prostitute uses a condom, where this can be a first step in the direction of a moralization, a first assumption of responsibility, on the way toward recovering an awareness that not everything is allowed and that one cannot do whatever one wants. But it is not really the way to deal with the evil of HIV infection. That can really lie only in a humanization of sexuality." When asked to clarify, the Pope said, "She of course does not regard it as a real or moral solution, but, in this or that case, there can be nonetheless, in the intention of reducing the risk of infection, a first step in a movement toward a different way, a more human way, of living sexuality."
As individuals, in solidarity with the work of the Millennium Development Goal to combat HIV/AIDS, we are called to consider our personal involvement. Potential actions include:
• Create awareness of HIV/AIDS by sharing the facts
• Remember those who have died from HIV/AIDS
• Pray for researchers, caretakers, orphans and those suffering from HIV/AIDS
• Educate self on an unknown aspect of HIV/AIDS
• Advocate for needs of people living with HIV/AIDS
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International Human Rights Day is December 10
This day marks the anniversary of the presentation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights before the United Nations General Assembly. As the most translated document in modern history, it is a document that forms the basis for human rights all over the world. This year’s theme is, “Speak Up Stop Discrimination.” Thus our focus turns toward those who have worked to stop discrimination in history such as Gandhi, Mandela, or M.L. King. Yet, are we not all called to speak out wherever discrimination exists? This task of defending the Declaration of Human Rights must include everyone. Additionally, the 10th anniversary of International Migrants Day is December 18. What might be potential actions for human rights awareness on behalf of migrants in my country?
Actions:
• Read the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
• Reflect upon our own actions to see where we do and do not affirm the human rights of others?
• Pray that the dignity and rights of all are respected.
• Educate for justice by promoting values of peace and Catholic Social Teaching.
• What forms of discrimination and limitations on human rights exist in my country?
• Plan an event to commemorate human rights day at school, parish, or local community.
• Express solidarity with those who have experienced some form of discrimination or limitation of human rights.
Prayer: God of Justice, You have given all of your children human dignity and human rights. Help us recognize the dignity and the rights of all of human kind. Open our hearts to hear your teachings. Open our eyes to the suffering of those who are denied their basic economic, social, and political rights. Let our voices join in declaring all humanity is sacred, all human rights must be respected. (Source: Center of Concern)________________________________________
Year-end and Alternative Gift Giving
As the end of the year comes to a close and another begins, individuals are invited to consider these gift-giving choices whether that is during Christmas, Epiphany, or end-of-year tax donations often used as deductions in the United States.
•The House of Charity in New Orleans is looking for a new location that will include needs for renovation and furnishings. In solidarity with the members of the Federation, individuals are invited to make contributions to the House of Charity in New Orleans. Make checks payable to: Sisters of Charity Federation and indicate it is for the House of Charity in New Orleans. Send all donations to: The Sisters of Charity Federation NGO Office, 211 East 43rdStreet, Suite 504, New York, New York 10017
• The Vincentian Family is working at efforts to support sustainable development in Haiti at http://www.zafen.org/ This announcement was made upon the 350th Anniversary of the deaths of St. Vincent and St. Louise. It is an effort to pool the resources of the International Vincentian Family and the Haitian Diaspora such that real change can be effected. Individuals can make micro-loans or donations to individuals and groups, give micro-credit as a gift in another’s name, offer a year-long scholarship for a child’s education, work toward re-forestation and agricultural sustainability and purchase Zafen items (t-shirts, buttons, coffee mugs, and more).
________________________________________
Solidarity with Southern Sudan
The UISG/USG collaborative venture of women and men religious congregations continues with the campaign, “101 Days for Peace in Sudan” that seeks to create a sacred space for prayer and religious, educational and cultural activities carried out throughout the 9 dioceses of Sudan in preparation for their upcoming referendum on January 9, 2011. These days of prayer are an invitation from the Catholic Bishops of Southern Sudan to pray for a peaceful referendum. Reflective materials are located on the Solidarity with Southern Sudan and Catholic Relief Services website that includes a daily prayer for peace, resources for ministry and advocacy in solidarity with Southern Sudan.
Contacting Congress
Contacting legislators by phone: 202.224.3121
The Honorable (name)
U.S. Senate (zip 20510)
U.S. House of Representatives (zip 20515)
Washington, DC
President
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Ave. N.W.
Washington, DC 20500
Phone: 202.456.1111
The UISG/USG collaborative venture of women and men religious congregations continues with the campaign, “101 Days for Peace in Sudan” that seeks to create a sacred space for prayer and religious, educational and cultural activities carried out throughout the 9 dioceses of Sudan in preparation for their upcoming referendum on January 9, 2011. These days of prayer are an invitation from the Catholic Bishops of Southern Sudan to pray for a peaceful referendum. Reflective materials are located on the Solidarity with Southern Sudan and Catholic Relief Services website that includes a daily prayer for peace, resources for ministry and advocacy in solidarity with Southern Sudan.
Contacting Congress
Contacting legislators by phone: 202.224.3121
The Honorable (name)
U.S. Senate (zip 20510)
U.S. House of Representatives (zip 20515)
Washington, DC
President
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Ave. N.W.
Washington, DC 20500
Phone: 202.456.1111
Weekly Justice Highlights
Good News: The Pittsburgh City Council has voted unanimously in mid-November to adopt a first-in-the-nation ordinance banning corporations from natural gas drilling in the city. A letter will be sent congratulating the city council and a 60 Minutes segment on drilling for natural gas- commonly known is ‘fracturing’
Water: The Environmental Protection Agency is still deciding whether to adopt new water quality standards. Convince federal authorities that these standards are necessary for protecting water quality in communities where coal is mined (scroll down to take action)
Immigration: Urge federal legislators to pass the DREAM Act as a first step toward Comprehensive Immigration Reform
Other Potential Actions
Call President Obama (202.456.1111) urging him to do all he can for the poor suffering from climate change as the UN climate change talks in Cancun, Mexico continue. (Act by December 7)
Urge Federal Legislators to support the continuation of the full Trade Adjustment Assistance program that would continue job retraining for service sector workers and to oppose all proposed “free trade” pacts with South Korea, Panama and Columbia
Unemployment Benefits expired on November 30th. Urge U.S. legislators to extend benefits available for the long-term unemployed for one year
Urge the U.S. Department of Agriculture to stop genetically modified sugar beets that causes genetic contamination of organic and conventional crops, and the development of super weeds resistant to herbicides
Contact U.S. Representatives at the above numbers or at 1.800.826.3688 urging them to make child nutrition a priority by supporting the strongest possible funding levels and improvements to be able to reach and help those most in need. Urge them to pass S. 3307, the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act and to ensure that Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Programs funding be restored and safeguarded from further cuts.
President Obama is preparing his budget request for FY 2012 and is expected to include $3.075 billion in military aid to Israel. As Americans struggle with living-wage jobs, affordable housing, quality health care and massive cuts in government programs, now is not the time to support nor increase military aid to Israel. Urge legislators to end military aid to Israel
Individuals are invited to extend their personal wishes and prayers for our sisters and brothers in Bethlehem during this upcoming Christmas season before January 7, 2011 (Eastern Christmas) to the Arab Educational Institute at info@aeicenter.org Sample messages from last year
Send a Christmas card to the President encouraging peace in Jerusalem at
This week President Obama proposed a two-year pay freeze for federal workers as part of efforts to reduce the budget deficit. Individuals who desire to encourage him can call 202.456.1111.
Water: The Environmental Protection Agency is still deciding whether to adopt new water quality standards. Convince federal authorities that these standards are necessary for protecting water quality in communities where coal is mined (scroll down to take action)
Immigration: Urge federal legislators to pass the DREAM Act as a first step toward Comprehensive Immigration Reform
Other Potential Actions
Call President Obama (202.456.1111) urging him to do all he can for the poor suffering from climate change as the UN climate change talks in Cancun, Mexico continue. (Act by December 7)
Urge Federal Legislators to support the continuation of the full Trade Adjustment Assistance program that would continue job retraining for service sector workers and to oppose all proposed “free trade” pacts with South Korea, Panama and Columbia
Unemployment Benefits expired on November 30th. Urge U.S. legislators to extend benefits available for the long-term unemployed for one year
Urge the U.S. Department of Agriculture to stop genetically modified sugar beets that causes genetic contamination of organic and conventional crops, and the development of super weeds resistant to herbicides
Contact U.S. Representatives at the above numbers or at 1.800.826.3688 urging them to make child nutrition a priority by supporting the strongest possible funding levels and improvements to be able to reach and help those most in need. Urge them to pass S. 3307, the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act and to ensure that Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Programs funding be restored and safeguarded from further cuts.
President Obama is preparing his budget request for FY 2012 and is expected to include $3.075 billion in military aid to Israel. As Americans struggle with living-wage jobs, affordable housing, quality health care and massive cuts in government programs, now is not the time to support nor increase military aid to Israel. Urge legislators to end military aid to Israel
Individuals are invited to extend their personal wishes and prayers for our sisters and brothers in Bethlehem during this upcoming Christmas season before January 7, 2011 (Eastern Christmas) to the Arab Educational Institute at info@aeicenter.org Sample messages from last year
Send a Christmas card to the President encouraging peace in Jerusalem at
This week President Obama proposed a two-year pay freeze for federal workers as part of efforts to reduce the budget deficit. Individuals who desire to encourage him can call 202.456.1111.
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