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Bishop promotes Community Justice Camp

By Michael Bird

Published: February 2010

Related Topics: Bishop/Staff, Social Justice

At Community Justice Camp, Anglicans from across Niagara, the province and the country will gather in locations throughout our Diocese with our ecumenical and secular justice partners as people who continue to walk in the darkness of this age and cry out for the blessings of justice, freedom and peace that is the promise of God to the whole human race.

Social Justice is a vital part of our Christian mandate that calls us to action to transform our lives and to alter the structures of society that diminish this gift of hope and leave people living in unjust circumstances. I have a great deal of personal interest in and passion for justice-making, and I am pleased to share in partnership with you and our many community partners who have aided us in this exciting ministry.

Community development is the theme of our camp. Community development in its simplest form is a process of coming together as community, developing trusting relationships, naming the justice issues to be addressed and together taking action for change. We must act collectively if we are to build a society where we are all in right relationship with one another.

Through theological reflection on shalom; justice; koinonia, that is fellowship, communion and community and kingdom/reign of God/heaven on earth, participating in the plenary sessions and immersion group experiences designed to engage your head, your heart and your hands you will learn how to integrate justice making into your life and that of your parish and community.

Along the way there will be many opportunities for fun, fellowship, music, creative and life changing worship, contact with local issues, site visits, outdoor activities, training and organizing workshops, and storytelling.

At Community Justice Camp, the wisdom lies in the group—the learning is lateral—the grace abundant. Everyone is potentially, or already an expert... a mentor... a disciple... a friend.

Together we will create the space, the ways and means, for the Spirit to move, making change, growth and transformation possible.

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