Peace Ministry
We believe that the idea of Peace still is, and still must be, dominant in human affairs, and that it becomes all the more urgent whenever and wherever it is contradicted by opposite ideas or deeds. It is a necessary idea, an imperative idea, an inspiring idea. It polarizes human aspirations, endeavors and hopes. Its nature is that of an aim, and as such it is at the base and at the goal of our activities, be they individual or collective. . . . . ‘Justice will bring about Peace’ (Is 32:17). We repeat this today in a more incisive and dynamic formula: "If you want Peace, work for Justice."
It is an invitation which does not ignore the difficulties in practicing Justice, in defining it, first of all, and then in actuating it, for it always demands some sacrifice of prestige and self-interest.
- Pope Paul VI, January 1, 1972
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Peace Ministry promotes justice and peace in the community and in the world, in the light of the Gospel and Catholic Social Teaching. It addresses the injustices in society and their underlying causes which destroy the “tranquility of order” and originate conflicts.
The Office for Catholic Social Justice Ministry supports clergy and lay leaders with education and training to integrate the peace message of the Gospel and the promotion of justice into parish social ministry programs. Please contact us for any extra information or assistance you would like to receive. Call OCSJM at (860) 242-5573 or email info.ocsjm@aohct.org . |
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“Bringing Human Rights to Life” Workshop
This workshop is offered by the Office for Catholic Social Justice Ministry to increase our understanding of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and its interconnection with the Social Doctrine of the Catholic Church. The workshop will help us learn how to raise our voices on the most controversial issues in the name of values that everyone can share: “the human rights.” These values are not exclusive to our faith beliefs but can be accepted by people of other faiths or no faith at all. They can be stepping stones to build peace. 
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Peace Resources
The Office for Catholic Social Justice Ministry provides various types of resources to assist parishes and social ministry teams in their peace-oriented activities. The Peace Workshop is described here, and additional resources can be found at the link below: |