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(Archived 9/29/2002)
Dear Parishioners,
Another theme that emerged at the “Town Hall Meeting” was for St. Bridget to continue growing as a justice centered parish. We mean by that God’s justice certainly, not one country’s or one human’s.
God’s justice, the reign of God, kingdom, (empire?); these are words used to describe a turnaround in relationships, the social order being established by God as one of harmony and mutuality between peoples. St. Bridget has a record of caring for the poor and marginalized that I certainly want to see continue and built upon. We lovingly support the Men’s Transitional Center in East Mesa on a regular basis. Grace and thanks to our wonderful St. Vincent De Paul Society who bring assistance and healing in the name of Christ and our community to so many. They celebrated, as the whole church did, the feast of St. Vincent De Paul this last Friday and we bless them especially today for their service of love.
As we involve ourselves in charitable projects and giving, we must also work for system change so as to eliminate the causes for hunger, poverty, discrimination, abuse. That is work I would like to see us focus on even more. I have not had the opportunity to meet with our Justice Committee (which could use more members and support), but plan to soon, however, they are keeping me informed as to issues and concerns they would like to see St. Bridget become more involved in. I thank them for their dedication.
What justice (right relationship) is need yet in families, neighborhoods, and the workplace?
I know these economic hard times can be bringing hardship. I know that families are experiencing increasing strains and dysfunction. God justice (rule of love) applies to these also, and I hope we can creatively fashion a way for Christ to touch all of this through the compassion of the community.
Pax Christi,
Fr. Scott