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Actively Working for Peace
Since last September the pastors of Hispanic parishes on the South Side have met five times to discuss the topic of violence in our City. What began as a focus on gun violence has broadened to include discussion on many other forms of violence, such as aggressive driving, carjacking, drug and alcohol abuse, marital strife, and suicidal ideation. In addition, the last three meetings have witnessed the participation of members of the Common Council and Police Precincts 2 and 6, as well as representatives from the Mayor’s office.
The pastors’ shared concerns have resulted in two concrete actions thus far. First, the prayer service and procession for peace which took place on Oct 27 (for the Sister Parishes, at OLG); and, subsequently, the inclusion of the theme of resisting violence and promoting peace in homilies as part of the celebrations of the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe.
As the next step, the pastors wish to propose to you, the lay faithful, a shared commitment during Lent toward addressing the root issues of violence, beginning in your own homes. This will require a sincere and honest conversation surrounding issues that can lead to violence in the home. For example, the level of profane language in everyday interactions; the availability and use of alcohol; untreated depression; the viewing of programs which portray graphic violence and/or so-called “soft” pornography. The parishes will provide professional resources for individual, family, and marital counseling, and spiritual counseling in the parish office.
Often we give up soda or candy or fast food for Lent. This is a long-standing and meaningful spiritual practice which involves self-denial and discipline. This Lenten season, however, I encourage all of us to go much further in your Lenten observance by performing an examination of conscience as regards forms of violence, to discuss the topic candidly and respectfully at a family council or, if you love alone, with one other person of confidence, and to make a commitment to resist violence in its many forms, and to hold yourself accountability to any way/s in which you have contributed to violence.
United in the love of Jesus Christ, Fr. Tim Manatt, S.J.
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