September 9, 2018: Twenty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time
Catholic Social Teaching: Solidarity
Watch a CRS video on solidarity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cteMjwOBPtw
Readings
First Reading: Isaiah 35:4-7a
Psalm: 146:7, 8-9, 9-10
Second Reading: James 2:1-5
Gospel: Mark 7:31-37
Catechism of the Catholic Church
Socio-economic problems can be resolved only with the help of all the forms of solidarity: solidarity of the poor among themselves, between rich and poor, of workers among themselves, between employers and employees in a business, solidarity among nations and peoples. International solidarity is a requirement of the moral order; world peace depends in part upon this. (1941)
From the Daily Roman Missal, Introduction to the,Twenty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle B
Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church:
James 2:1-9
Only the recognition of human dignity can make possible the common and personal growth of everyone (cf. Jas 2:1-9). To stimulate this kind of growth it is necessary in particular to help the least, effectively ensuring conditions of equal opportunity for men and women and guaranteeing an objective equality between the different social classes before the law.
Also in relations between peoples and States, conditions of equality and parity are prerequisites for the authentic progress of the international community. Despite the steps taken in this direction, it must not forget that there still exist many inequalities and forms of dependence.
Together with equality in the recognition of the dignity of each person and of every people there must also be an awareness that it will be possible to safeguard and promote human dignity only if this is done as a community, by the whole of humanity. Only through the mutual action of individuals and peoples sincerely concerned for the good of all men and women can a genuine universal brotherhood be attained; otherwise, the persistence of conditions of serious disparity and inequality will make us all poorer. (145)
For complete text visit: http://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/pontifical_councils/justpeace/documents/rc_pc_justpeace_doc_20060526_compendio-dott-soc_en.html
Reflection
We must desire to hear the Word of God, so we may speak of His precepts from having internalized the message and articulate them in our spoken expressions and concrete actions. Deafness replaced by a docile opening to hear with ears of justice. Impediments limiting our proclamation of justice removed because we have been brought to Jesus’ way of viewing the world. A divine plan spoken by the prophets, not obsessed with profits, to nourish the land with refreshment of life giving elements. The refreshment from stewardship of creation for the benefit of all, even in deserts appearing parched. Supporting economic and social direction to provide clean drinking water as a human right. Honoring the dignity of workers with safe workplace environments void of imprisonment, abuse and exploitation physically and mentally. Equality of opportunity in social, economic and religious structures to honor the responsibility of all to use their God given gifts in service of humanity. Compassion for the vulnerable, so they do not become rubble trampled under foot or shielded from view. For in giving places of honor to elites bedecked in material wealth, trappings of self-induced esteem fizzles solidarity from society. The inherent judgment creates a cast system based on economic criteria, lauding wealth over virtue. A false security denying our true wealth is only founding in loving God and one another as ourselves. For when we deny paradoxes of the poor being truly rich in what matters most to God, we are blind and mute to proclaim the Gospel.
Individual Reflection:Psalm 146:7, 8-9, 9-10
Coordinate an ecumenical and interfaith advocacy day in support of Bread for the World initiatives, inviting people from your parish and neighboring faith based communities. Include youth in the letter writing day, with education and advocacy about food insecurity. Share the activities with your parish community on the parish website, blog and bulletin. Ask for a prayer petition to be included in prayers of the faithful.
http://www.bread.org/bread-world-sunday
Family Reflection: Isaiah 35:4-7a
Plan an outing to view vernal pools
https://www.pe.com/2017/01/08/why-vernal-pools-are-full-at-santa-rosa-plateau/
https://www.wildlife.ca.gov/Lands/Places-to-Visit/Carrizo-Plains-ER
Prayer:
Pray for an end to hunger in the world and share these resources
http://www.bread.org/pray-end-hunger
Blogs to Visit:
As we reflect upon Mary’s presence in the mysteries of the Rosary, we are blessed to know her. For her journey, a timeless trek, calls us to surrender, continuing conversion, humbleness and justice now.
https://peaceonjustice.wordpress.com/
Weekly lectionary reflections, for faith sharing groups, parish bulletins, newsletters or personal prayer, from the synergy of the Word we hear and the rich tradition of Catholic Social Teaching.
https://cst74life.wordpress.com/
Catholic Social Teaching offers seven principles for upholding life in our thoughts, decisions and actions.
How we do Catholic Social Teaching.
https://csmresources.wordpress.com/
Creation sustainability ministry resources in the spirit of the St Francis Pledge.
Social Ministry Resources Engaging Parishes: Monthly and liturgical seasons resources for use with parish websites, bulletins and newsletters
Involvement Opportunities
List one or two upcoming events, legislative action alerts or social justice websites
By Barb Born August 18, 2018 The reflection maybe used in parish bulletins, newsletters or for faith sharing groups without copyright concern.