Embracing Sustainable Living: Forum of Religious for Justice and Peace Takes a Stand
At the 18th Convention of the Forum of Religious for Justice and Peace, a significant decision was made. Members vowed to simplify their lifestyles, live in closer proximity to the impoverished, and refrain from unnecessary consumption and extravagance.
Written by Sr. Florina Joseph, SCN
The members of the Forum of Religious for Justice and Peace gathered at their 18th National Meeting (October 18-20) in Indore, India with a powerful message of commitment to sustainable living and the urgent need to address environmental and humanitarian issues.
The theme of the meeting was “Pilgrims of Hope: Towards Integral Ecology,” attracting participants from 24 congregations across 15 states, as reported by Matters India.
During the convention, experts shed light on pressing social realities and stressed the crucial need to tackle environmental challenges and dismantle structural barriers that hinder the progress of marginalized communities.
Standing Against Climate Change and Injustice
Participants at the convention raised concerns about the environmental and humanitarian crises facing our world today. They highlighted the detrimental impact of the relentless pursuit of economic growth and the exploitation of natural resources on our planet and its people.
Expressing disappointment over India’s slow progress in meeting the objectives set out in the 2015 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP21) in Paris, the attendees declared a personal transformation rooted in Gospel values. They pledged to adopt simpler lifestyles, live in solidarity with the impoverished, and steer clear of unnecessary indulgences to protect our shared home.
The group called for substantial structural changes and a firm opposition to anti-environmental policies that prioritize profits over human rights. They emphasized the importance of decentralization and empowering communities to combat these crises.
To tackle these challenges head-on, members committed to intensive research, data documentation, and raising awareness among youth. They also vowed to collaborate with like-minded individuals and organizations to safeguard the environment and thwart unjust evictions.
Reflecting on the forum’s action plan, Sr. Roselyn Karakattu SCN, a dedicated member, shared her optimism about the future. “The revised Constitution of the forum sets a practical yet visionary path for our mission,” she expressed in an interview with Vatican News.
A Legacy of Justice and Peace
Established in 1987, the Forum of Religious for Justice and Peace consists of a group of impassioned religious women and men devoted to promoting justice within the Church and society at large.
Through their unwavering commitment to sustainable living and advocacy for the marginalized, the members of the forum continue to be beacons of hope in a world yearning for positive change.
