***ACTION OF THE WEEK***
Bishop Declan Lang, Chair of the Bishops’ Conference International Affairs department, has urged Catholics to share a new report on persecuted Christians with their local MP.
The Catholic charity Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) releases an annual report that gives a global perspective on Christian persecution.
The ‘Persecuted and Forgotten?’ report covers the period 2020–22 and one of its key findings shows that, in 75 percent of the countries surveyed, the oppression or persecution of Christians has increased.
“I welcome today’s report on the increasing problem of the persecution of Christians in many parts of the world that has been released by Aid to the Church in Need,” says Bishop Lang. “It draws needed attention to this serious and urgent issue. I am deeply grateful for all the vital work that ACN do in not only raising awareness but also supporting victims.
“I encourage fellow Catholics to share this report with their local MP. I also urge Catholics in England and Wales to join me in prayer for our sisters and brothers who have been affected by human rights abuses and for all those working for change.”
Visit Aid to the Church in Need‘s website for more information and to read the report.
There is also a #Redwednesday Petition.
ACN write: - Please join us on the 23rd November and during the month of November to Break the Silence on the persecution of Christians and all faiths, globally. We ask you to Sign our PETITION to support Christians in Nigeria, request our latest FREE Report and pledge your prayer and action. THIS NOVEMBER PRAY, LEARN, ATTEND, DONATE
Thank you!
NEWS AND COMMENT
1. Persecuted Christians
ACAT Christmas Campaign
Action by Christians Against Torture (ACAT) run Christmas and Easter campaigns every year, encouraging people to send cards to those imprisoned for their faith. They write: -
For this campaign, which is published every year in November, we suggest that you write a simple card or greeting to an individual saying, for instance, that you are thinking of him/her and/or perhaps urging them not to lose hope (or words to that effect). A picture postcard is always welcome and cheapest to send. You can include your name and address (if you wish) but we ask you - please not to mention ACAT or include a religious greeting (if so advised,) as communication from a foreign organisation can endanger the prisoner and lead to harsher sentences. Several individuals featured in our last Christmas Campaign have been released. Sadly others are still in prison and it is important not to forget any of them. As usual, we include a selection of rights groups.
They have a list of people you can send greetings cards to here.
Premier Christian News on Persecution
This week, Premier had two articles on persecution. The first article 'Over 500 anti-Christian hate crimes recorded in Europe last year' was a surprise. We talk a lot about racism in Europe, but we don't hear so much about hate crimes against Christians.
The second item, 'How many corpses are required to get the world's attention' summarises the recent report by ACN on persecution around the world, which is up by 75% across the 24 countries that it monitors, and that the situation has worsened considerably in Nigeria and Afghanistan.
2. COP27
COP27 agrees historic 'loss and damage' fund
The Guardian on Sunday reported that these crucial climate talks ended with an 'historic' deal on their most cherished climate goal: a global fund for “loss and damage”, providing financial assistance to poor nations stricken by climate disaster.
They go on to then say that the deal was far from perfect, and cite why. You can read it here.
Also in The Guardian, they have a complete timeline of what went on during that last day, and several quotes from people.
Damian Carrington sums up the disappointment at the hope of 1.5 degrees burning out at Cop27, and finishes with : - Is there hope? Yes, in that every climate action we take lessens the damage. As Cop27 closed, Kathy Jetn̄il-Kijiner, poet and climate envoy for the Marshall Islands, said: “I wish we had got fossil fuel phase-out. But we’ve shown with the loss and damage fund that we can do the impossible. So we know we can come back [to Cop] next year and get rid of fossil fuels once and for all.” I hope she is right. I fear she is wrong.
COP27: Forests, nature and intensive farming
Nina Pullman through Wicked Leeks has written this article about biodiversity. I must admit to being very relieved that Lula da Silva won the Brazilian elections, and that he has promised no more deforestation. Nina reported that he was quoted in The Guardian as saying: “Today, I am here to say that Brazil is ready to join once again [the] effort to build a healthier planet."
Let's hope so...
Should the world's biggest polluter sponsor the UN's climate conference COP27?
I was quite shocked to read that COP27 actually had a sponsor! In my naivety, I presumed that the Government in whichever country it was held, footed the bill! How silly of me!
This is just a short article from Everyday Plastics, highlighting what Coca-Cola should be doing, instead of sponsoring programmes like the Conferences of the Parties. It also makes the very valid point, though, that it is down to the NGO's, charities and environmental organisations to resist their cash. Possibly as consumers we also need to make a stand.
3. Climate/Environment (includes an Event)
A People's Manifesto for Wildlife
I found details of this whilst reading a Q & A that Triodos Bank had with Chris Packham (he of Springwatch/Autumnwatch fame). I like the way that he writes 'This manifesto has no party-political bias: It is critical of governance and its affiliation is to the wildlife and people of the UK.' He states 'saying 'we care' is not enough - we need informed action'
The whole Manifesto is available to read here.
Resolutions on Environmental Matters
The Catholic Bishops of England and Wales have published their series of post-Autumn Plenary 2022 resolutions focusing on environmental matters. The first one made a lot of sense as it was about Friday abstinence. If people were to abstain from eating meat on Fridays, then not only is it good for the environment, but we are acting in solidarity with those facing poverty and hunger around the world. You can read the full list through the CBCEW website.
Hunger in South Sudan
Trocaire have produced a report in which it states that violent conflicts and climate change in South Sudan have contributed to the country being “consistently” ranked as one of the “world’s hungriest countries.” Almost 9 million people (80% of the population) are food insecure. This rather sobering report can be found through the Trocaire website.
Event - Webinar Tuesday 22nd November 7pm - 8.30pm
'Church Investment in Climate Solutions Report Launch'
Operation Noah is hosting this free Webinar on Tuesday, talking about the role that churches have to play. You can find out more and book your place here.
Turkey for Christmas?
Virginia Bell, from the Laudato Si' Animators UK, has written this article through ICN highlighting the plight of Turkeys, and giving you some vegan alternatives.
The interconnection of climate change, injustice and forced displacement
Dr Sophie Cartwright 'explores the connection between climate change and forced displacement, and the need for a holistic response' in this article on the Jesuit Refugee Service website. She cites the various natural disasters around the world in the last few months, including hurricanes and rising sea levels, and the number of people this has affected, and the fact that we need a holistic solution.
It makes for an interesting read.
4. Refugees and Migrants (includes an Event)
Event - JRS UK Advent Service - Tuesday 20th December at 7pm
Make a note in your diaries for the JRS Advent Service taking place at Farm Street Church. You can attend either in person or via livestream.
More details from their website.
Become a grass-roots campaigner with Safe Passage
Free training is available from Safe Passage to be a campaigner. They write: - When doors are being closed to refugees across the world, now is the time for action.
Join our incredible team of Grassroots Campaigners who fight for refugees and their right to asylum.
More details here.
A kinder more effective solution to Channel crossings (includes an Event)
Care4Calais have asked us to share their videos on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram showing the way that the refugee situation should be dealt with.
Whilst you are doing that, it is well worth having a look at their other posts. There is an Anniversary Vigil taking place this coming Thursday, 24th November, in Parliament Square at 6pm. This is for the 32 men, women and children that perished in the Channel last year. The story told with the post is horrendous - the lack of care shown to those literally dying in the water by the French and English authorities is appalling.
As posted in previous Autumn and Winter editions of this e-bulletin, they are also looking for warm coats.
An invasion of our shores?
Ben Bano and Phil Kerton of Seeking Sanctuary have written this article for ICN. They cover the current rhetoric by the Home Secretary, the situation in Manston and Harmondsworth, and the demonising of the Albanians. It is well worth a read.
Migration is an urgent and complex issue, but a fundamental change of approach is needed
Another thing worth a read on the same subject is by Joseph Kelly from The Catholic Network, who quotes Bishop Paul McAleenan, talking about the situation at Manston, and making no bones about taking the Home Secretary to task: - “It is also imperative that everyone refrains from inflammatory language that undermines people’s humanity and creates tensions between communities.”
4. Palestine/Israel (includes an Event and an Action)
Event - "O Little Town of Bethlehem" -
Palestinian Christians, Reality, Challenges and Prospects
Taking place on Wednesday 7th December at 3pm UK time
Balfour Project write: - The world turns to Bethlehem during Christmas, but they have a fairytale image of the little town. However, this is a real community with real challenges. This webinar gives an insight into the reality and challenges of Palestinians and Palestinian Christians in the Holy Land.
Register for this Webinar here.
Action - Barclays: Don't bank on Apartheid
Palestinian Solidarity Campaign writes: - Israel's militarised attacks on Palestinians are facilitated by financial institutions like Barclays, who invest over £1billion in companies supplying Israel with deadly weapons and military technology.
Across Britain, campaigners are setting up pickets and other actions outside Barclays branches - with many planned for Saturday 26 November. Will you join in?
More details through their website.
6. Life in the UK today (includes an Event and an Action)
Brighton, Bristol and Cardiff Councils 'leading on food.'
Nina Pullman (again) from Wicked Leeks has highlighted Food for the Planet and Sustain's research into how councils are doing in regards to tackle the climate, nature and health crises through food.
She writes: - Councils spend over £69 billion a year and own up to 1.3 million acres of land, so they have an enormous opportunity to reduce emissions from the food system, support farmers, and help people eat healthier and planet-friendly diets. Scored on their climate, nature and food strategies, councils scored on average just one third of available points.
Read the full article here, and maybe think about contacting your own council to address this situation.
Comments on the Autumn Statement
Independent Catholic News have a selection of comments on the Chancellors Autumn Statement from last week. Christian Aid says 'Budget is built upon the backs of the poor'
Also from ICN, you can read SCIAF's comments, who are 'deeply disappointed with budget failure to restore overseas aid', along with an article about CAFOD's reaction on the same subject.
Action: - Join the Day of Action on Fuel Poverty - Saturday 3rd December
Warm this Winter writes: - The Chancellor has just delivered a budget that falls short on protecting millions of people from a catastrophic winter and lowering energy bills in the long term.
No one should have to ride buses or visit public spaces to keep warm. But by next April, the number of households facing fuel poverty is expected to rocket to 8.6 million. We need the government to really see the reality of what people all over the country are experiencing.
Click on the link above for more information.
Event - Cost of Living Film
Greenpeace have launched a film, 'Cost of Living' that follows the Rother Valley community as they try to support each other through this crisis.
They write: - Local Greenpeace groups across the country will be hosting film screenings followed by community-led conversations—you’ll have the opportunity to discuss ways we can build pressure on our government to keep people warm this winter.
It’s going to take all of us organising together to push Rishi Sunak and his government to provide the support families need and deliver on the solutions we know will help keep bills down forever and fight the climate crisis—investment in renewables and home insulation.
More details here.
CSAN launches cost of living campaign
The Catholic Bishops of England and Wales have reported on the Caritas Social Action Network's campaign calling on the government to make changes to the welfare and tax system for the benefit of society’s most vulnerable.
The article can be read through the CBCEW website.
Church Action on Poverty Sunday
You can now sign up to take part in Church Action on Poverty Sunday, taking place on the 19th February 2023. Register here.
7. Impact of war on seafarers
Stella Maris Chaplain, Greg Watts, tells of the impact that the situation in Ukraine has had on seafarers of all nationalities. You can read the interesting article through ICN here.
You can also see further information on Stella Maris' Ukraine response through their website.
8. 'Put HS2 into administration'
This article, reported by the Express and Star, reports that Rishi Sunak has been urged to put HS2 into administration by Lord Berkeley, deputy chair of the Oakervee Review into HS2, who cited "serious engineering problems" beneath the route through Staffordshire as a reason for binning the project.
The Telegraph also have a similar article, but you have to sign up for a 'free trial for a month' before you can read all of it.
Newsletters/Reports
9. NW NJPN E-Bulletin November 2022
Anne O'Connor has pulled together a lot of varied articles on COP27 and the climate, refugee issues, the poverty situation in the UK and what the result of the Brazilian elections mean for the environment and the indigenous people. It is available through the NJPN website.
10. My Green Pod November 2022
The independent online ethical brand has some great articles in their free magazine about ethical choices and climate issues. Well worth a read. Download it through their website.
11. Pax Christi Just Peace November 2022
Interesting news, a link to their shop and various events to put into your diary. Read it through Pax Christi.
12. Joint Public Issues Team November 2022
Good articles on the asylum system/refugees, COP27/loss and damage, plus resources and events. Read it here.
13. Leeds Justice and Peace Commission November 2022
Some good articles including one on Nigerian flooding, and a reflection on Pope Francis' message for World Day of the Poor. There are also a couple of items for young people. Dip into it here.
14. Birmingham Justice and Peace Commission Autumn 2022
Starting with comments on this year's Assembly topics, it then covers a wide range of justice and peace issues, including a couple of interesting articles on cut flowers and candles (as in those used in churches). Well worth a read.
15. Tiny Eco Home Life
Not at all church-related, but lots of handy tips on how to live a sustainable life in a very down to earth fashion.. I particularly like his product reviews - always helpful! You can read it here.
16. Boaz Trust November News Update
Always a positive read, they finish with the heart-warming news that someone they supported in their early days has just been granted refugee status after SEVENTEEN years. (And the Government blame the traffickers??)
Read it through this link.
17. London Mining Network
See details of their report on Anglo-American, and news on BHP - plus details of actions and events. Available here.
18. Together for Water
Read the World Council of Churches Ecumenical Water Network Newsletter here. It has lots of water and climate-related articles.
19. Laudato Si' Movement November
News on 'The Letter', important dates and resources. Click here to read.
EVENTS (in chronological order where applicable)
20. 22nd November - 7pm - Birmingham Justice and Peace Commission
Forum - Working together on the issues covered during this year's Assembly
21. 22nd November- 7pm - 8.30pm - Operation Noah
Church Investment in climate solutions report launch
22. 26th November - 10am - 1.30pm - Pact
Kent's JustPeople Roadshow
23. 3rd December - Campaign Against Arms Trade
Solidarity with Yemen Day of Action
24. 3rd December - 2pm Pax Christi
Advent Peace Service at Church of the Holy Apostles, Pimlico
25. 6th December - 7pm - Pact
Farm Street Church - Pact's London Christmas Carol Service
26. 7th December - 5.30pm - 6.30pm - Anti-Slavery
Virtual Supporter Conference
27. 8th December - 7pm - Pact
Pact's Nottingham Christmas Carol Service
28. NJPN Save the Dates for 2023
29. 10th February - Columban Schools Competition Deadline
Building Peaceful Futures
Actions
30. Protect the right to boycott
Palestinian Solidarity Campaign writes: - Despite many pressing political issues affecting the UK, the Government is still pushing ahead with its plans to introduce a damaging ‘anti-boycott bill’ in Parliament. If passed, this would dramatically affect our ability to campaign for social and climate justice, and particularly harm our campaigns of solidarity with Palestinians. The bill would specifically target public bodies (including local councils) and prevent them from deciding to cut ties with companies involved in human rights abuses in Palestine or elsewhere.
We think it’s crucial for public bodies to be able to make ethical decisions to divest from human rights abusing companies, or to decide not to buy their goods or services. And we’re not alone! We’ve brought together over 60 civil society groups who have already voiced opposition to the Government’s plans and pledged to fight any anti-BDS bill tabled.
On November 30th, we’ll be in the houses of Parliament with a group of human rights advocates, trade unionists, faith groups, and climate justice campaigners, meeting with MPs to discuss the bill and convince them to oppose it when it's tabled. We want to reach as many MPs as possible in these meetings - so they need to hear from you, their constituents, that it's crucial they attend.
Could you please write to your MP using our e-mail tool asking them to attend one of our briefing sessions?
31: Don't deregulate the banks
Global Justice Now want us to send a message to Rishi Sunak, asking him not to deregulate the banks. These rules were put in place for a reason after the financial crash of 2008. Add your name to their petition here.
THE LAST WORD
32. Advent Resources/Reflections
I have seen some really good Advent items going around, and as we are just about to go into the Advent Season, I thought I would share them here for you.
Anne O'Connor has produced a lovely Advent Journey, and her Advent Reflections. Both available from the NJPN website.
Embrace the Middle East are also advertising Advent Reflections direct into your inbox. Sign up here.
Transform Trade have their Injustice Advent Calendar, which is usually very interesting (and helpful when I am looking for items to include in this publication).
Note on Data Protection
Your email address is stored with MailChimp only to allow us to send you these emails, and to track interactions (e.g. open rates). To read more about how MailChimp stores and uses your information, click here for the full MailChimp Privacy Policy. Sections referring to Distribution Lists concern your emails.
No sensitive data (such as credit card details) is given to MailChimp because we do not have an e-commerce element.
You can unsubscribe or update your preferences at any time by clicking the links at the bottom of the page.
NEWS LINKS
Independent Catholic News
Find Justice and Peace stories at:
http://www.indcatholicnews.com/news/justice-peace-environment
Sign up to receive these regularly.
Catholic Communications Network
Find news stories at www.catholicnews.org.uk
Latest Zenit Headlines here
Vatican News homepage: www.vaticannews.va
World Council of Churches
https://www.oikoumene.org/en/
UK Parliament News
https://www.parliament.uk/business/news/
Follow us on Twitter: @NJandPNetwork
Follow us on Facebook: National Justice and Peace Network
Registered Office: - NJPN, 39 Eccleston Square, London SW1V 1BX
Telephone Numbers: - 020 7901 4864 and 07365 838535
About these E-BULLETINS
The items above are emails received from around the Network which may be of interest to those involved in working for justice and peace.
The views expressed are not necessarily those of NJPN.
To unsubscribe from these mailings, email ebulletin@justice-and-peace.org with “unsubscribe” in the subject box. We also welcome your feedback at the same address.
Forwarding these emails: Please feel free to forward these emails on to your contacts – but please remember to tell them to contact YOU if they want to unsubscribe!
Urgent Actions:
We sometimes receive emails that need immediate action and cannot wait for the weekly bulletin. To receive these items email the same address with “urgent actions” in the subject box.
If you appreciate these bulletins, help to keep them coming by donating to NJPN:
Send cheques payable to NJPN to: NJPN, 39 Eccleston Square, London SW1V 1BX.
(NJPN is a registered charity no: 1114947 Company no: 5036866)
If you shop online, you can support us at no extra cost to yourself by signing up with easyfundraising.org.uk, where lots of companies will make a donation to us when you shop online with them.
|
As a small charity NJPN relies on donations from its members and friends, as well as grants for specific work or projects, if you feel you are able to make a contribution you can either:
make a bacs payment to our account: Sort code 16-31-15 account 10089516 reference Donation with your surname or our CAF donate page: https://cafdonate.cafonline.org/8130#!/DonationDetails
|
