Catholic Commission for Social Justice
The CCSJ welcomes Pope Francis’ declaration on March 13 – the second anniversary of his pontificate – of a “Jubilee Year of Mercy”. This “extraordinary Holy Year” will commence with the opening of the Holy Door in St Peter’s on the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception on December 8, and will conclude on November 20, 2016 – the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe.
As we prepare for the Passion of the Lord and His glorious Resurrection, let us reflect on the many nuggets of wisdom contained in today’s Gospel (John 3:14-21). God sent his only Son into the world to save us, to lead us to our Father. He, the Light of the World, came to dispel the darkness. Sadly, in our country and in our world today, many “have shown they prefer darkness to the light because their deeds were evil…everybody who does wrong hates the light and avoids it, for fear his actions should be exposed…”
March 8 is International Women’s Day. It is clear that if we empower women, we will empower humanity. Women are breaking through the proverbial glass ceiling in many countries. While we celebrate their achievements in various fields of endeavour, let us resolve to reach out in solidarity to the millions of women and girls around the world who continue to struggle to address social, economic, cultural and political challenges.
“It is to be hoped that hatred and violence will not triumph in people’s hearts, especially among those who are struggling for justice, and that all people will grow in the spirit of peace and forgiveness.” – Pope St John Paul II, Centesimus Annus, No. 27
On March 1 the world celebrates Zero Discrimination Day. The theme is: Open up, Reach out. This annual event, which was launched last year, “highlights the negative impacts of discrimination and promotes diversity, tolerance, compassion and peace”.
Today’s Gospel (Mark 1:12-15) is pertinent to our work to promote social justice. Jesus was led by the Holy Spirit into the desert, after his baptism and before his ministry. While we reflect on his temptation by Satan during his 40 days in the desert, let us reflect on the many times in our lives when we are also tempted. Let’s ask the Holy Spirit to fill us with the strength and courage we need to resist temptation and avoid situations that could lead us to sin. We know that without God, we can do nothing (John 15:5).