Throughout the history of the Marthas, social justice has been a value to which the members have been committed. At a gathering of members in 2004 this commitment was reaffirmed:
'Justice, expressed in right relationship with our sisters and brothers, God, self and creation; honoring the dignity, responsibilities and rights of all, especially those who are poor and marginalized.'
Against this backdrop, the social justice committee of the Marthas focused on
specific areas:
- becoming knowledgeable about justice issues
- raising awareness of justice issues among the members , within the Church and human family
- encouraging all to pray daily for justice and peace
- advocating for justice issues in a peaceful way
- collaboration with other groups on justice concerns
The committee has:
- sponsored a workshop in collaboration with Peace and Development and the Diocese of Antigonish entitled 'Mining for Justice'.
- together with the women religious of Atlantic Canada, promoted the stage drama entitled Lost in Traffic performed by
Theatre Parminou.
The committee has networked with various local and provincial groups:
- advocating with government for affordable housing in th town of Antigonish
- supporting recommendations from studies on Social Assistance.
Contact with the UN:
As members of the Federation of the Sisters of Charity, the Marthas enjoy NGO status at the UN. Through this valuable network and attendance at its meetings, we experience the impact of global concerns on people, and identify issuesfor which we can advocate and address locally, e.g. lack of access to water for drinking, hygiene, and food security on a global scale.
Peace Pole
A peace pole stands at the front of Bethany handcrafted with the inscription "May Peace Prevail on Earth". Inscribed in 12 languages it is one of 200,000 peace poles spread across the world. They stand as a constant reminder for us to wish for, pray for and to visualize and think about peace in our lives, homes, communities and in the world. Weekly gatherings are held around the Peace Pole at 12:50 on Wednesday. Wherever you are we invite you to pause at that time and join us in our prayer for peace.
Newsletters on social justice issues are published on a regular
basis.
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