| 40 Years and counting… |
 |
|
Forty years ago Development and Peace was launched during a time of irrepressible hope and optimism and an unshakeable belief that the world could be transformed within 25 years into a place where massive poverty would cease and the fundamental human rights of every individual would prevail. |
|
| The Encyclical, Populorum Progressio (On the Development of Peoples), issued by Pope Paul VI in March 1967, challenged us to pay close attention to the appalling conditions affecting millions throughout the world. It underscored: "the development of those peoples who are striving to escape from hunger, misery, endemic diseases and ignorance; of those who are looking for a wider share in the benefits of civilization and a more active improvement of their human qualities…" |
|
| Acting on this challenge, Canada’s bishops, clergy, religious and especially the laity took action to develop a partnership with communities in Africa, Asia and Latin America to help end poverty, while building bonds of solidarity with these marginalized communities, and raising the awareness of Canadians about the root causes of injustice. |
|
| 1967: It was out of this call to action that Development and Peace was born as both a movement and an organization in the Catholic Church. |
|
| Why celebrate? Marking our 40th anniversary is an opportunity to renew our commitment to partnership with communities in the Global South, to social and economic justice, especially for women, and to making Canadians aware of the continued causes of injustice. We remain inspired and challenged by the values of the Gospel and the social teaching of the Church, particularly "the preferential option for the poor." |
|
| The future starts today: Development and Peace has accomplished much but we believe, a great deal more is still to be done, and must be done. Across Canada, various celebrations, both large and small, have and are occurring throughout our 40th anniversary year. So, it is in peace and solidarity, we share with you images and messages from our members and our partners in the Global South, in order to demonstrate the spirit of who we are and what we are all striving for. |
|
| Enjoy and celebrate with us as we go forward together in our efforts to create a more just and equitable world for all. |
|
Theology Committee
Letter on the Mission of DEVELOPMENT AND PEACE, October 2007 (PDF)
|
|
 |
