November events, a call to action

By Fr Stephan Alexander

General Manager, CCSJ and AMMR

November is a month rich with events that summon us to deepen our commitment to social justice. This month’s commemorations include the Feast of St Martin de Porres; World Day of the Poor; Justice, Peace, and Community Week; World Youth Day; and the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.

Each of these events offer distinct, yet interconnected, invitations to live out the gospel in practical ways that advance justice, foster peace, and defend human dignity.

Feast of St Martin de Porres – November 3

The month opened with the Feast of St Martin de Porres, whose life remains a profound model of Christian charity, humility, and solidarity. During his lifetime, St Martin faced racial discrimination, poverty, and exclusion. Yet, he responded to this with a saintly commitment to serve others, especially the marginalised. As a lay brother in the Dominican Order, he used his healing gifts to care for the sick and poor, and he is often depicted with a broom, symbolising his humble service to all.

St Martin’s life compels us to act against discrimination and poverty, encouraging us to find joy in serving those often neglected by society.

World Day of the Poor – November 17

The eighth occasion of World Day of the Poor will be observed on November 17, 2024. This year’s theme, The prayer of the poor rises up to God (Sirach 21:5), reflects the hope that the suffering of the impoverished reaches God, who stands ready to advocate for their justice.

Pope Francis urges Catholics to embrace prayer as the foundation of solidarity with the poor. He emphasises that prayer must lead to tangible charity, stressing that without actionable compassion, prayer lacks authenticity. Conversely, charity without prayer risks becoming detached from the spiritual depth that sustains true Christian service.

In our observance of this day, Pope Francis encourages us to listen to the prayer of the poor, becoming aware of their presence and needs to refocus our ministries, bringing awareness and direct support for them. In this way, we embody God’s compassionate response to human suffering. Likewise, we give effect to the Pope’s call for our prayer to inspire us to serve and our service to deepen our prayers, which leads our communities to build bonds of genuine fraternity with the poor.

Justice, Peace, and Community Week – November 17–24

The Archdiocese of Port of Spain observes Justice, Peace, and Community Week, from World Day of the Poor to the Feast of Christ the King. The activities of this week provide vital opportunities for reflection, education, and action.

As Catholics, we are called not only to pray for peace but to be instruments of it in our communities. This week underscores our responsibility to work for justice as the foundation for authentic peace and as a critical part of our communal and individual faith lives.

This observance invites parishes, schools, and communities to engage in activities that deepen our understanding of Catholic Social Teaching. Workshops, discussions, and liturgical events throughout the week foster a space where we can explore the practical application of these teachings in our local contexts. During this time, let us consider the ways we contribute to a culture of peace and recognise how justice underpins every healthy community.

World Youth Day – November 24

World Youth Day, while often celebrated on an international scale, also invites us on the Feast of Christ the King to focus locally in our parishes on the role of young people within the Church and society.

Youth are not only the future but also the “now” of the Church. They bring fresh perspectives, energy, and a willingness to challenge injustices they encounter in their daily lives. This day is an opportunity to affirm their value and provide platforms where they can explore and address social issues with their peers.

In our ministry, we must actively nurture the involvement of young people in social justice initiatives. It is essential that we offer them opportunities for formation, engagement, and leadership within these efforts.

World Youth Day reminds us that our young people are ready to contribute meaningfully now to the Church’s mission of justice–and they are looking to us for guidance, mentorship, and encouragement.

International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women – November 25

Rounding out November’s commemorations is the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, a day that shines a light on a pervasive social issue that affects countless women worldwide.

The Church has a crucial role to play in advocating for the dignity of all women, condemning violence in all forms, and supporting survivors with compassion and tangible resources.

For those of us involved in social justice ministry, this day calls us to examine the often-hidden forms of violence that women endure, from domestic abuse to economic exploitation.

Our parishes and communities must be safe spaces for victims of violence, offering support, respect, and the assurance of dignity. We must advocate tirelessly for laws and social practices that protect women from harm, and challenge cultural attitudes that enable violence to persist.

This day is a stark reminder of the work that remains to build a society where the rights and dignity of women are upheld.

The events observed this November present us with a cohesive call to action. Each of these commemorations invites us to live out the Gospel’s radical call to “love one another as I have loved you” (Jn 15:12).

As we navigate the challenges of our time, may November be a month of transformation and grace. Together, as a Church, let us recommit to a vision of the Kingdom where justice, peace, and love prevail.

The CCSJ asks for your support. Please donate:

Catholic Commission for Social Justice

Account #: 290 458 025 501

Bank: Republic Bank Ltd.

or you can contact us at: admin.ccsj@catholictt.org