COMMISSION ON GLOBAL ISSUES
Because we care…
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Global JusticeSince the founding of the Sisters of Saint Dominic of Caldwell in 1881, concern for issues of justice and the needs of the poor have ignited our sense of mission. This spirit continues to motivate us as we move into the second decade of the 21st century.  The Commission on Global Issues seeks to draw attention to human rights needs at home and around the world. Study, research, and education of others have led to significant action in behalf of justice. In conjunction with the Universe and Creation Committee and the Lumen Center, information about these and other issues is widely disseminated for prayer, education and action.
Since 1969 the Caldwell Dominican community has been in the forefront speaking out, demonstrating, preaching and teaching on injustice, human rights conflicts, and the plight of the poor. Our efforts have resulted in adopting a Corporate Stance (link) against Nonviolence, the Death Penalty, and Human Trafficking. Through networking with the other Northeast Dominican congregations as well as other local, state, and national groups, we believe our voice is strong in behalf of those who cry out for justice and assistance. |
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FOCUS 2012
Dominican Justice Promoters from across the United States gathered recently at Adrian, MI to review and reset collaborative goals for 2012. They were joined by Rev. Carlos Rodriguez, OP and Sr. Toni Harris, OP from Rome, who shared with the group an overview of global issues on which Dominicans throughout the world are striving to collaborate. Sister DeMontfort Kinchellagh, justice promoter for the Dominican Sisters of Caldwell, was among the participants.
Central to the deliberations was the need to develop a plan for more intentional focus on fewer issues so that greater effectiveness can be achieved. Working in collaboration with the Order worldwide, participants agreed to focus on five areas: Peace and human security, Migration, Human Trafficking, Economic Injustice, and Care of Creation, while continuing to respond to regional concerns in a timely manner.
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| Sisters Pat Daly and De Montfort share a smile during the meeting in Adrian, MI. | Dominicans from across the U.S. work out priorities for the 2012 Justice Focus |
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We Pray for Economic Justic
We rejoice that H.R.3630 passed both houses of Congress. It extended until Dec.31, 2012: payroll tax reduction for workers, unemployment benefits for the long-term unemployed, elimination of the drastic cut in the repayment to doctors who treat Medicare patients and TANF .
We continue to lobby and pray that all persons will have their basic human needs met, that our Congress will pass a budget that promotes jobs, a progressive taxation and cuts in unnecessary military spending. All can help achieve these goals through awareness , prayer , letter writing , email, phone conversation to encourage our elected representatives in their legislative endeavors. |
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We are concerned about the loss of peace in our world
The Commission on Global Issues hosts a monthly Holy Hour for Peace. It is held in St. Catherine Convent, Caldwell on the second Wednesday of each month, 7 – 8 PM. All are welcome to come and pray with us. Those who are unable to make the journey to Caldwell are invited to make your own Holy Hour for Peace at home or in your parish church and be joined with us in prayer. You may find this a worthy Lenten practice as well. |
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