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International Migrants Day 2020 December 16th, 2020
As the world observes International Migrants Day on December 18, read a statement by Secretary-General of the United Nations António Guterres.
Secretary-General’s video message for the launch of the Report “From Promise to Action: The Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration”
Dear Ladies and Gentlemen,
Two years ago, Member States came together in Marrakech and committed to a comprehensive framework for cooperating on international migration.
The report we are launching today describes how the Global Compact for Migration is taking root in promising ways.
The Compact reflects a growing global understanding of the great benefits of human mobility.
But it also recognizes that, if poorly managed, migration can generate huge challenges, from a tragic loss of life to rights abuses and social tensions.
COVID-19 has heightened those challenges and had negative effects on more than 2.7 million migrants, particularly on women and girls.
At the same time, we have seen new practices emerging to protect migrants during today’s upheaval.
Several countries extended residence and work permits. Others have regularized the status of undocumented migrants. Some States have pursued alternatives to immigration detention.
And while some States have suspended returns owing to unsafe conditions, others have made efforts to ensure that those returning or who have been deported are supported.
These initiatives need to be expanded. However, much more can and should be done. Read the full statement.
Advent Guide 2020: Building a Culture of Peace December 4th, 2020
Photo credit: Max Beck, Unsplash
(Prepared by Maryknoll Office for Global Concerns)
The Season of Advent offers us a time to prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ, the Prince of Peace. This Advent, we invite you to reflect on what it would look like to build a culture of peace – a journey that begins with peace in our hearts and leads to peace in our local communities, nation, and world.
In our work we understand peace as not merely the absence of war or violence, but the presence of just social systems and right relationships between different members of society.
This guide includes reflection on the weekly Scripture readings during Advent, as well as prayers and examples of Maryknoll missioner experiences and suggested steps for “faith in action.” We hope this guide helps individuals and communities reflect on how they can welcome the Prince of Peace this Advent.
CMSM: Election Returns & Continued Civic Engagement November 9th, 2020
Reprinted from the Conference of Major Superiors of Men Justice & Peace Alert
Clergy, faith, and academic leaders who have journeyed with their respective ministry communities this election season may find themselves facing unprecedented questions. When will the election anxiety conclude? How do we wait in the unknowing? How do we proceed with generosity and kindness if the results do not come back the way that we anticipated? Where do we go from here?
Several collaborators have material that might be useful for your consideration. Pax Christi USA shared a reflection by Bishop John Stowe, OFM Conv on Wednesday that concludes with the charge “to be instruments of healing for all who have been excluded and do not have the luxury of waiting.”
The Maryknoll Office for Global Concerns has compiled a list of prayers, virtual events, and other resources here. The USCCB’s Civilize It campaign includes a social media pledge, an examination of conscience, and pastoral aids here.
WEBINAR: “Looking for new forms of dialogue in Laudato Si” (LS 14) October 19th, 2020
Following our meetings for Laudato Si, the OMI Central Government
invites you to the Webinar:
Link: bit.ly/2T28hW7
Meeting ID: 883 5984 5648
Passcode: omiwebinar
Our Global Biodiversity Crisis – What You Can Do October 16th, 2020
Submitted by Sr. Maxine Pohlman, SSND, director, La Vista Ecological Learning Center
The loss of biodiversity on our planet is even more urgent than the climate crisis but less well-known, putting people, wildlife, and future generations at risk. Scientists report that one million species are in danger of extinction in the coming decades. Urgent action needs to be taken now to reverse the massive loss of plants, insects, and other creatures we depend on for a stable climate, sustainable food supplies and essential pollination services.
All of us can help by participating in Citizen Science Projects right in our local areas. Projects include observing wildlife, measuring night sky brightness, monitoring water quality, counting birds, monitoring bird nests, and many more. Visit the National Geographic website to get ideas. You will be working with thousands of other volunteers and scientists to gather and share important data to a global database.
Visit the National Geographic website to participate.
Photos courtesy, Unsplash.
