Catholic Commission for Social JusticeBy Shelly-Ann Simon, Case Management Officer – Alternative Care, CCSJ/AMMR, rcsocialjustice.org
There are many versions of the family. One thing we can say for sure is that family is important.
Some would define the family in terms of structure with each member carrying out a particular role, such as father, mother, child, and so on. Family is where we form emotional connections and learn the values that shape us into adults.
By Leela Ramdeen, Chair, CCSJ & Director, CREDI
Tomorrow, June 1, the world will observe Global Day of Parents. As the UN states: “The Global Day provides an opportunity to appreciate all parents in all parts of the world for their selfless commitment to children and their lifelong sacrifice towards nurturing this relationship…
By Leela Ramdeen, Chair, CCSJ & Director, CREDI
Sunday, May 10 is Mother’s Day. Let’s celebrate, affirm and honour our mothers – not only today, but throughout the year.
I remember my deceased mother, Ruby Ramdeen, nee Manning, who was a radiant example of love, service, patience, self-sacrifice and generosity. She had an unfailing sense of duty to her family. She was a woman of faith, wisdom, and common sense. Let’s thank God for the gift of our remarkable mothers, and for their steadfast love.
By Leela Ramdeen, Chair, CCSJ & Director, CREDI
The Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph is celebrated this Sunday. As Pope Francis has said, we are asked to “reflect on the experience lived by Mary, Joseph and Jesus, as they grow together as a family in mutual love and in trust in God.”
As the year draws to a close, let us reflect on how well we have modelled our families on the Holy Family, which is an exemplar for all families.
On Wednesday, May 15, the world will celebrate the International Day of Families. The 2019 theme is: Families and Climate Action: Focus on SDG13. The observance focuses on families, family policies and major Sustainable Development Goal 13 targets:
“SDG 13 target 13.3:
Improve education, awareness-raising and human and institutional capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction and early warning
SDG 13 target 13.2:
Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning” (UN).