St. Gertrude Catholic Parish

If anyone would like to see a summary of the details for the Catholic Social Justice Workshop last Saturday please e-mail me directly.

The attachment gives a great summary of the 12 workshops and spotlights important issues for Catholic activists.

The organizers (former priests and nuns) expected 200 but 150 showed. I’d estimate that 85% of the attendees were seniors. Nothing wrong with that except if you’re trying to inspire a new generation. So this disheartened me. I had expected at least 25% or more to be 20 to 30 years olds, 50% to be 30 to 50 year olds. Kathy Kelly also remarked how she seemed to be facing the same folks. Every chair was filled in Kathy’s class—about 40.

I saw several priests there including Fr. Bill Kenneally! Also St Gertrude’s parishioner Delle Chatman (who is now in hospice) was able to conduct her class….which was standing room only…She’s so talented did you know she co-authored a book with Fr Kenneally? Delle is getting a lot of support from St Gertrude’s parishioners. Her caretaker Tracy can’t thank the parish enough for it’s generosity and kindness.

Fr. Pfleger of St Sabina gave an inspiring lecture. His remarks that his own parents have “”disowned”" him for his social justice actions were very brave. So many of us greatly desire the support and unconditional love of our family. What a gift that is. But it is a good reminder that those who are in the struggle for peace and justice can often be shunned by their very own family members. We need to be the added support for them—their extended family.

I reassured Kathy Kelly that many of the younger crowd were likely at candidate forums. I went to the St Gertrude’s candidate forum after this workshop. It was not as well attended as I hoped it would be…. But it was a great opportunity to hear from our local elected officials along with those aspiring public office.

I am very fortunate to be a part of this great parish and community. I never want to take it for granted.

Peace,
Andrea
ActivistAndy(at)aol.com

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