On October 6, St. Charles Parish was honoured to welcome special guests at our Sunday Mass. They were members of Western Social Justice Canada. Among the attendees was Most Rev. Jon Hansen, C.Ss.R., Bishop of the Diocese of Mackenzie-Fort Smith, accompanied by a small group representing various regions of Western Canada, including Ontario, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, and the Northwest Territories.
This group of 19 participants stayed at the St. Charles Retreat Center for the three-day duration of their conference. United by a commitment to social justice and peace, they gathered to discuss local initiatives, share ideas, and support one another in their work.
The group discussed a variety of pressing social issues during their time together. They explored the challenges faced by Afghan human rights defenders who have sought refuge in Canada, highlighting the struggles and resilience of refugees. Homelessness was another focal point, with a representative from Siloam Mission speaking on the situation in Winnipeg and examining its root causes. The topic of drug addiction was addressed by a bioethicist, who delved into the moral complexities surrounding safe consumption sites for individuals caught in cycles of addiction. Finally, an environmental activist from Nigeria shed light on the world’s dependence on fossil fuels, emphasizing how this reliance not only harms the planet but also strains human relationships and undermines a healthy, sustainable future.
In his homily, Bishop Jon reflected on the impact of Jesus’ work in a small part of the world. With limited power and influence, Jesus focused on building personal relationships, offering healing, and teaching rather than directly challenging unjust societal structures. Bishop Jon emphasized that social justice efforts may sometimes feel like trying to scratch a diamond with a fingernail. However, he reminded us that work done in the name of the Lord is never in vain.
Bishop Jon encouraged self-transformation, urging each person to focus on changing their own heart rather than trying to change the world on their own. He stressed the importance of God’s grace and the support of a faithful community, both essential for success in social justice and family life alike.