THE BIBLICAL NOTION OF JUSTICE
September 14, 2002 Rev. David Medow St. Mary Immaculate Parish, Plainfield
"Justice" is one of those words that can be found throughout the Bible. But what is the meaning carried by the word justice as found in the Biblical texts and in Biblical times? How does this affect our way of approaching justice as followers of Jesus in late 20th century America? In this workshop we will seek to weave together various strands of our own lives, the ministry of the Church, issues that face our society and the rich resources of our Biblical tradition.
CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING -- FOUNDATION FOR MINISTRY
September 28, 2002 Dr. Kennth Homan Theology Chair, Quincy University
This workshop will explore the intimate relationship between evangelization and Catholic social teaching in the light of both the fundamental success and fundamental shortcoming of the renewal of Vatican II. This exploration hopes to deepen our appreciation of Catholic Social teaching as an indispensable foundation for both ministry and evangelization. The method for this workshop includes presentation, group interaction, and video selections.
SOCIAL JUSTICE SPIRITUALITY -- ACTION FLOWING FROM PRAYER
October 12, 2002 Sue Morris - Koinonia Retreats
Being able to speak about what gives energy to one's ministry is extremely helpful to ministers. In this workshop we will examine the meaning of spirituality for social justice ministry and discover how to maintain the movement of grace and Spirit, so vital for life and ministry. Participants will be invited to reflect on their own spirituality, and will be challenged to raise their awareness of encounters with God. Actions on behalf of justice and flow from a position of prayer.
Criminal Justice Reform
October 26, 2002 Rev. Mr. George Brooks, J.D. , Kolbe House
A thought provoking and challenging workshop, this day will look at critical issues such as Restorative Justice, Prison Reform, the Death Penalty, and Juvenile Justice Reform. An overview of the Death Penalty as it is imposed in the US, specifically in Illinois, including the practical and moral objections to its use with current developments. Also, a presentation of the prevailing ineffective and abusive system of "warehousing" almost 2 million inmates; the rejection of rehabilitation; the myths and false stereotypes of prisoners and prison conditions; the efforts and suggestions for prison reform and the trend and developments of juvenile justice reform with recent examples of draconian measures being adopted across the Country.
SOCIAL ACTION SKILLS -- LEARNING HOW TO EFFECT CHANGE AT THE LOCAL LEVEL
November 9, 2002 Dr. Mary Heidkamp Dynamic Insights International: Consultants for Peak Performance.
This workshop will present an introduction to the various theories, concepts, and methods used to carry out social analysis, combined with practical application of these methods. Participants will learn skills of social analysis, and skill of leading others in the task of affecting social change. Resources for developing parish social justice committees will be introduced.
LEGISLATIVE ADVOCACY-- TRANSFORMING PUBLIC POLICY AND SOCIAL STRUCTURES
November 23, 2002 Sr. Mary Elizabeth Clark NETWORK, and Deacon Roger Schmith, Diocesan Legislative Advocacy Coordinator
Transforming unjust structures requires changes in society that promote justice. Christians bring a perspective to public policy-making that is based on faith and religious values. This workshop will deal with the power of legislative advocacy as a tool for social change. Information will be provided on how to determine an acceptable political agenda, how to organize and train a parish legislative network, and how to resource local and national network
CONFLICT MANAGEMENT SKILLS -- FINDING OPPORTUNITIES FOR GROWTH IN CHURCH CONFLICT
December 7, 2002 Rev. Robert Williamson Lombard Mennonite Peace Center
Participants will be introduced to the nature and role of conflict, conflict in the biblical story, and the potential of conflict to bring renewal. Individual styles of dealing with conflict will be explained as well as interpersonal peacemaking skills. A primary focus for the workshop will be to understand and manage conflict within the parish community
POVERTY AND WORLD HUNGER - RESPONDING TO GLOBAL NEED AT THE LOCAL LEVEL
January 11, 2003 James Lund, Regional representative for Catholic Relief Services.
This day will deal with a theological investigation and assessment of the division of the world into rich and poor countries. Scripture and Catholic social teaching will give insight into the socio-political issues of poverty, economic development, and liberation. Special attention will be given to the U.S. Catholic Bishops' statement, "Called to Global Solidarity." Participants will learn why all parish and social programs must exercise a fundamental option for the poor. Resources and methods for parish response to global need will be discussed.
CONTEMPORARY SOCIAL ISSUES: Justice for the Environment
January 25, 2003 Rev. Clare Butterfield Coordinator of the Center for Neighborhood Technology’s Inter-religious Sustainability Project. Chicago.
Rev. Butterfield will share ways to engage parishes in the
Chicago Region around issues of long term environmental sustainability. She will
encourage parishes to connect the same beliefs that have helped them forge views
on concerns such as social justice, healthcare, or education with a vision for a
sustainable environmental future they may model in their homes and communities.
WHAT IS THE PEACE AND JUSTICE INSTITUTE? An educational experience to provide parish social justice ministers with the knowledge, skills, and resources to be effective ministers.
WHO IS THE INSTITUTE FOR? Parish staff members, peace and justice ministers, Christian service commission members, educators, and anyone interested in becoming more knowledgeable of peace and justice ministry.
PRACTICUM Those participants seeking diocesan certification will participate in a supervised practicum. Each candidate will be asked to: · develop or assist with the development of a parish social justice committee or · provide enrichment to the existing committee or · provide parish enrichment through a monthly action plan. In addition each participant will present a summary reflection paper at the conclusion of the Institute.
APPLICATION PROCESS INCLUDES: · 3 Letters of Recommendation · An overview of involvement in Peace and Justice Ministry · An overview of one's spirituality · An explanation of the applicant's interest in being a candidate in the Institute · An interview with the Director of Peace and Social Justice Ministry. Write or call for an application packet: Peace & Social Justice Ministry St. Charles Pastoral Center 402 S. Independence Blvd. Romeoville, IL 60446 Telephone (815) 834-4028
Deadline for application to the Certification Program is August 1, 2002
REGISTRATION FOR WORKSHOPS Registration materials for individual workshops will be available 6 weeks in advance of the date. Watch your bulletin for announcements or call the St. Charles Pastoral Center (815) 834-4028
WHERE WILL THE INSTITUTE TAKE PLACE? All workshops will be held at the St. Charles Pastoral Center, Romeoville, IL
HOW MAY ONE PARTICIPATE? Ministers may take the entire Institute which includes an application process, an orientation meeting, nine workshops, and a practicum experience. Upon successful completion of the entire Institute, students will receive a diocesan certificate. Ministers may also take individual workshops, separate from the certification process.
WHAT IS THE COST OF THE INSTITUTE? Cost of the entire Institute leading to certification is $300. Cost of separate workshops is $30 each. Scholarships are available.