February 2017

ADVOCACY
 
"Among our tasks as witnesses to the love of Christ is that of giving a voice to the cry of the poor." Pope Francis
 
Give a voice for those who can't speak for themselves: Put your faith into action through advocacy.We can ease human suffering and help millions of people through advocacy that changes unjust policies or systems.
 
WHAT IS ADVOCACY? 
 
Advocacy is taking action to support a cause or proposal. 
 
Advocacy encompasses educating and mobilizing citizens.
 
Advocacy involves citizens in developing and promoting policies they care about.
 
The Office of Life, Justice & Peace webpage makes it easy to keep track of opportunities for advocacy. Follow  this link for the latest information.
 
OUR BAPTISMAL CALL
Speaking up and speaking out is central to our identity as a people of faith. By our Baptism,
Catholics are committed to following Jesus Christ and being  "salt for the earth, light for the nations." 
By speaking out as a concerned constituent, you have a louder voice in Congress and you can use it to ensure that important issues are better received and addressed.
We must raise our voices to defend the rights of others! We must sing loudly. The great choir of justice sings for those whose voices are silenced.
 
"It is necessary that all participate ...  in promoting the common good. This obligation is inherent in the dignity of the human person. ...  As far as possible citizens should take an active part in public life" (Catechism of the Catholic Church, nos. 1913-1915).
 
"The individual who is animated by true charity labors skillfully to discover the causes of misery, to find the means to combat it, to overcome it resolutely."  Blessed Paul VI
 
Watch the bulletin for announcements of Advocacy events. 
 
SOLIDARITY
Catholic Relief Services Rice Bowl

CRS Rice Bowl is Catholic Relief Services' Lenten program for families and faith communities in the United States who want to put their faith into action and devote their Lenten prayers, fasting and alms to change the lives of those who suffer in poverty. 
Through the CRS Rice Bowl Small Grants Program, 25% of all money given is made available for projects within the Archdiocese of Portland that address hunger and poverty.
 
Why You Want to Participate:  "The word "solidarity" is a little worn and at times poorly understood, but it refers to something more than a few sporadic acts of generosity. It presumes the creation of a new mindset which thinks in terms of community and the priority of the life of all over the appropriation of goods by a few." Pope Francis