The 'Social Justice Statement 2024-2025' titled “Truth and Peace: A Gospel Word in a Violent World” emphasizes the critical need for truth as a foundation for peace in a world marred by conflict. Bishop Vincent Long remarks, 'We cannot have peace without truth,' underscoring the idea that many global conflicts originate from dishonesty and a lack of truth. The statement invites reflection on the significance of truth in cultivating a culture of peace, especially in the face of widespread violence.
Associate Professor Joel Hodge discusses the erosion of truth in modern society, noting how 'competing truth claims' and 'the loss of authority and trust' are central to the crisis we face today. He highlights that in an era of 'unprecedented education,' the irony is that misinformation and conspiracy theories still thrive, revealing the fragility of truth in our world. He further stresses that 'truth is not just a battleground in the culture wars,' but it plays a life-and-death role in contemporary issues, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and conflicts like those in Ukraine and Gaza.
Hodge reflects on the dangers of truth being distorted, explaining that 'evil is not a thing in itself but rather it's a distortion of the good.' He cautions that when truth, goodness, and belief are misaligned, they can lead to 'conspiracy and lies' or 'violence and idolatry.' The statement challenges individuals to reorient these values towards their true purpose, emphasizing that distorted good can 'exploit and hurt' rather than heal and unify.
Bishop Long draws on his personal experiences as a refugee from Vietnam to illustrate the horrors of war and the desperate need for peace. He describes the aftermath of conflicts, noting that 'violence and conflict continue to plague our world,' with over 50 state-based and 80 non-state-based conflicts currently raging across the globe. Despite these challenges, he urges a commitment to hope, grounded in the belief that 'peace flourishes when we see everyone, not as a stranger to be feared but as members of one human family.'
The presentation further emphasizes the importance of dialogue and encounter as pathways to peace. Bishop Long quotes Pope Francis, who advocates for a 'culture of encounter' and dialogue at both macro and micro levels, stating that 'peace is possible' when we engage with others with respect and understanding. The statement also highlights that words alone are not enough; 'action is required' to truly make peace, which involves both personal commitment and collective efforts.
The role of individual responsibility in promoting peace is stressed, with both speakers urging participants to begin with themselves. Hodge asserts that 'peace starts with us, in our own hearts,' and that individuals must 'invite God to nurture peace' within them. This inner peace, once cultivated, can radiate outward, influencing others and contributing to a broader culture of peace. The statement encourages simple but powerful actions that 'strengthen the bonds of peace.'
In conclusion, the presentation calls for a renewed commitment to truth and peace, inspired by the Gospel and the teachings of the Church. The statement is not just a reflection but a call to action, inviting all to engage in peacemaking efforts that go beyond words. As Bishop Long puts it, 'Let's all do something every day to change the talk of conflict and war to that of friendship and peace,' reminding us that peace is an ongoing journey that requires constant dedication and effort.
Journal and reflect on the following questions...
How can we actively contribute to promoting truth in a world where misinformation and competing truth claims are prevalent?
Reflect on practical steps you can take in your daily life to uphold and spread truth.
In what ways can we foster a 'culture of encounter' and dialogue in our communities to build bridges of understanding and peace?
Consider how engaging with others, especially those with differing perspectives, can lead to greater peace and unity.
How can we reorient our understanding of truth and goodness to prevent the distortion of these values into harmful ideologies?
Think about how your beliefs and actions can align more closely with the true purpose of these values.
What are some simple but effective actions you can take to nurture inner peace and extend that peace to others in your life?
Reflect on daily practices or habits that can help you cultivate and share peace within your immediate environment.
How does your faith inspire you to engage in peacemaking efforts, and what specific actions can you take to promote peace in a world filled with conflict?
Consider how the teachings of the Gospel and the Church can guide you in becoming an active peacemaker in your community and beyond.
Discuss
Song - Peace Be Still
Final prayer
Loving God, we come before You with hearts yearning for Your truth and peace in a world often divided by conflict and misinformation. Guide us to be instruments of Your love, spreading justice, compassion, and understanding wherever we go. Help us to nurture peace within ourselves and to extend that peace to others through our words and actions. May we be united as one body in Christ, committed to building a world where truth prevails and Your peace reigns. Strengthen our resolve to act with courage and grace, bringing light into the darkest corners of our communities. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
