The Justice and Peace Group was formed in June 2004. Scripture asks us to act with justice to love tenderly and to walk humbly with our God. We wanted to get involved because we feel that justice and peace are non-negotiable issues.
Pope John Paul II’s 2000 Jubilee Campaign goals directed our focus towards debt cancellation and fair trade in particular. In addition, we decided our role was to take on anything extra we could practically get involved with such as the Make Poverty History campaign.
We are involved with campaigns to bring politicians into line with the wishes of ordinary people who are horrified at seeing others starving in a world of abundant food. We are also concerned with issues of education and health. Activities we have taken part in include:
- Rally at St Bridget's in solidarity with Make Poverty History rally in Edinburgh
- Lobbying members of parliament on fair trade and debt cancellation
- Hosting an informative and prayerful interfaith dialogue to learn more about other faith communities in our area to learn more about and appreciate cultural diversity in our area in April 2006.Our guest speaker was Sr Clare Jardine from the Westminster Diocese Interfaith Team
- Meeting with other Justice and Peace groups in the West London Network to hear speakers from such organisations as CAFOD, Pax Christi, the Jesuit Refugee Service, agricultural experts involved with Third World projects etc
Membership and Meetings
Our parish group has a two-tier and very flexible membership.
- For those who are available to attend, we hold monthly meetings at Gumley House Convent usually from 6.30 to 7.30pm on the second Tuesday of the month.
- We also have a growing and much valued band of parish supporters who are unable to attend regular meetings but who help in a practical way such as:
- Liaising with local schools where their children are pupils
- Helping with our Fair Trade Stalls and with handing out information leaflets and petitions at Masses
- Undertaking to include in their prayers mention of special events such as Global Peace Day
In our own small way we aim to make a difference. We are keen to welcome other parishioners who share our aspirations. Members can become involved whenever and wherever they can. Please see the parish directory to contact any of the following members or have a chat when you see us at Mass.
| Claire Hickey Jane Rebello Elizabeth Doole | Sister Anne Marie Ryan (FCJ) Mary Kelly |
Jane Rebello runs the Fairtrade Stall with help of parishioners at West Middlesex Hospital. Marion Lefoy helps with school liaison.
