“It is important to highlight that Monsignor Alvarez has been deprived of his physical and religious freedom for 365 days, he was subjected to a trial in absentia and was denied even the right to know his sentence and the right to appeal. El Pais.

On Hiroshima Day, 6 August, Scotland Justice and Peace tweeted a reminder of the Scottish bishops' statement of 1982.  ICN

Catholic Primate Eamon Martin said Monsignor Rolando Álvarez was a victim of Daniel Ortega’s authoritarian regime.  The Irish Times.
 

The Saint of Assisi shows us "how inseparable the bond is between concern for nature, justice for the poor, commitment to society, and interior peace." ICN

“It is in the interests of all NPT states parties that this practice [of nuclear sharing] does not spread further. And to guarantee that, it must be brought to an end.” Watch the video by ICAN

One year ago, in 2022, the 40th anniversary of this landmark statement, we produced this video with the help of schools, our bishops and some life-long anti-nuclear activists to reafirm our stance against nuclear weapons of mass destruction.  #Hiroshima #Nagasaki #NeverAgain.

Interest rates are expected to rise again this week and there are warnings about a “timebomb of debt” among poorer households. Reports suggest companies are targeting struggling single parents, using social media ads, to offer inappropriate debt repayment schemes that will leave them worse off.  The Guardian.

PAX and ICAN’s new report "Moving away from mass destruction" shows that more and more financial institutions around the world are rejecting nuclear weapons, and citing the #nuclearban treaty as a reason to stop banking on the bomb.  

Are you looking for an opportunity to meet people motivated by their faith to care for others? Would you like to explore the unique contribution that faith makes to the health and social care sector? Are you interested in learning about the ethical challenges work in this sector may bring?  

On the Eve of the Feast of St Ignatius of Loyola, Fr David Stewart SJ returned to Farm Street parish in London to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the Young Adult Mass. He had been there at its inception and delivered the following sermon with warmth and eloquence.  ICN.

"I appeal to my brothers, the authorities of the Russian Federation, that the Black Sea Initiative may be restored and grain may be transported safely.  "The cry of millions of brothers and sisters who suffer hunger rises to Heaven."  ICN.

Rishi Sunak has announced the approval of about 100 new North Sea oil and gas licences, prompting condemnation from environmental groups, who said it would “send a wrecking ball” through the UK’s climate commitments. The Guardian.

The mantra of “safe and legal routes” is regularly repeated by the government when justifying increasingly draconian legislation in an attempt to prevent refugees from travelling to the UK under their own steam. The argument is that refugees should use these safe and legal routes instead of arriving in small boats or the back of lorries to claim asylum.  This article looks at what safe and legal routes are available and how they are accessed.  Free Movement.

A number of senior Labour figures who represent some of the areas worst hit by the policy have spoken out against the leadership’s stance.  The Guardian.

 “use all diplomatic means, even those that may not have been used so far, to bring an end to this terrible tragedy,” since “war in itself is an error and a horror.”  Vatican News.

The UK Parliament may have passed the Anti Refugee Bill but this legislation does not represent us and we will continue to campaign for safety and sanctuary for our displaced brothers and sisters across the world.  Watch our campaign video here.

The UK Court of Appeal has ruled that Rwanda is not a safe third country to send those seeking safety in the UK to, so what happens now? this Right To Remain blog answers a few questions.  

It is a "very significant first step",  at a moment when the world is  going through a crucial moment in terms of climate, hunger, exclusion. It is a “sign of hope," Vatican News.

The Conservative frontbench saw off five further changes to the bill peers were seeking, including modern slavery protections and child detention limits.  The Guardian. 

“Redesigning the economy to serve the needs of people and planet, and to value what actually matters is an urgent task,"....There is no alternative if we want a healthy planet for our children and grandchildren to live on.”  The Herald.

Nicaraguan Catholic Bishop Rolando Alvarez was released from prison late on Monday, a diplomatic source said, marking a possible turning point in the government's prolonged crackdown on the Catholic Church.  Reuters.

Environmental activists have urged lenders around the world not to help fund the project and some banks have vowed not to participate in its financing.  Aljazeera.

“Presidents Biden and Putin should come to an agreement that both U.S. and Russian nuclear sharing must end.”  Truth Out.

On the 10th anniversary of his visit to the Italian island of Lampedusa, Pope Francis reaffirms his support for migrants who continue to take great risks to cross the Mediterranean to enter Europe. Vatican News.

Nicaraguan Bishop Rolando José Álvarez Lagos was sent back to prison Wednesday after negotiations between the Nicaraguan bishops and the government of dictator Daniel Ortega broke down, Nicaraguan news sources reported. CNA.

To mark 'Refugee Week 2023' we were joined at Dungavel Detention Centre, Scotland's only Immigration Removal Prison on Sunday 25th June 2023 by Archbishop Nolan, President of Justice & Peace Scotland.  Watch his address to those gathered here

Archbishop Nolan and the Sally Foster-Fulton, Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland supported the recent Faith Vigil at the South Gate of Faslane Naval Base to pray for an end to nuclear weapons.  Watch the service here.

We were very pleased to host Fr Stan Chu Ilo in Eyre Hall in the Glasgow Archdiocesan Offices on Friday 23rd June 2023 for his talk - Ecological Conversion As A Missionary Conversion; A spirituality of Stewardship for Cosmic Flourishing.  Watch the recording here.

Message of Pope Francis for Creation Day 2023.

The decision to migrate should always be free, yet in many cases, even in our day, it is not. Conflicts, natural disasters, or more simply the impossibility of living a dignified and prosperous life in one’s native land is forcing millions of persons to leave.  Pope Francis message and prayers for World Day of Refugees & Migrants.

Press Release from Stop Climate Chaos Scotland in response to the news that the Scottish Government have missed their greenhouse gas emission targets, leaving us further away from our crucial goals on the environment.  SCCS.

Refugees; the gospel in Britain is a reflection written by the St Andrew's & Edinburgh Caritas, Justice & Peace Group.  In it they look back on history, at our responses to refugee crises and ask do we really have a long and noble tradition of welcoming the stranger?

Leaders from Muslim, Christian and Jewish faiths have joined forces to voice their opposition to the Illegal Migration Bill in a video marking the start of Refugee Week 2023.  Together With Refugees.

On Thursday 11 May, Scottish Faith Leaders met with providers of social care in Scotland at Conforti Institute to hear first-hand about the crisis in social care in Scotland.  ICN.

This short video highlight taken from our Day of Reflection, explains the crisis in social care in Scotland today and our aims going forward as a collective faith voice contributing to this campaign for better pay and recognition for workers in social care. 

Justice and Peace Scotland are hosting a 'Weekend of Action' on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 23, 24 and 25 June.  Find out more here.  ICN

The world's nuclear powers, and China in particular, increased investment in their arsenals for a third consecutive year in 2022 amid swelling geopolitical tensions.  France24

Pope Francis pens a message for the annual World Day of the Poor, stressing that “whenever we encounter a poor person, we cannot look away, for that would prevent us from encountering the face of the Lord Jesus.”  Vatican News

The circular economy offers cheaper alternatives to buying new, local employment opportunities and community support from local charities and social enterprises that practise circularity through reuse, repair and recycling.  The Herald.

The #nuclearban treaty is crystal clear -  hosting another country's nuclear weapons is illegal. Deploying nuclear weapons outside your own territory is wrong - and no state can be considered responsible when they do. ICAN/Reuters.

Right now, countries in debt crisis are being held to ransom by big banks and hedge funds. These lenders are acting like cowboys - making millions in interest payments while lower income countries are left without enough money to pay for health and education. Over 54 countries are already in crisis.  CAFOD

"In any other arena, if an individual commits a crime, they do something illegal, they don’t become something illegal. In this way, our well-known belief that #NoOneIsIllegal has become increasingly poignant and urgent."  Right to Remain.

“Moreover, as indicated by many in the scientific world, changing this model is 'urgent' and can no longer be postponed.” Vatican News

Sign up for the 2023 Season of Creation Resources here.

please join this urgent call to the UK Government for an ‘Essentials Guarantee’ to make sure that the basic rate of Universal Credit is at least enough to afford the essentials we all need, such as food, household bills etc.  Trussell Trust

The Zaporizhzhia power plant was taken under Russia control last March, becoming one of the first major areas to be captured by Vladimir Putin's forces - but staff say they are intimidated by Russian troops to keep quiet about what's happening behind closed doors.  Sky News.

Pope Francis' Prayer Intention for June:  "For the abolition of torture - We pray that the international community may commit in a concrete way to ensuring the abolition of torture and guarantee support to victims and their families."

"favouring sustainable investment is also a testimony of faith, which is based on respect for creation, created and entrusted to us by God."  ICN Image by Elisa on Pixabay.

With the intensification of economic asphyxiation, the dictatorship would seek the closure of some temples and the closure of seminaries.  Teller Report.

Bishop Paul McAleenan, Lead Bishop for Migrants and Refugees for the Catholic Bishops' Conference of England and Wales, has made a statement supporting the Archbishop of Canterbury's comments in The Times and reiterates that we need a more effective and humane asylum system: ICN

Scottish Faith Action For Refugees along with Faith in Community Scotland are working together on the lead up to Refugee Week 16th -25th June 2023 to encourage faith groups to take part in their 'Hospitality NOT Hostility Campaign.  You can find out more here.

Buddhist education centres for children and young adults are multiplying across Myanmar, but while they claim to be politically neutral, critics say they teach toxic nationalism and military propaganda.  Frontier.  

In a new letter, which is available publicly on the COP26 Declaration website, we have urged our investment managers - and the wider investment management industry - to take a firm stance against fossil fuel expansion.  ICN

From April this year, NHS care workers in similar roles as care home care workers now make over 19% more.  STV.

The previous high was £6.9bn in 2015, a time when Syria had collapsed into civil war.  “The latest export licence figures for 2022 show that the UK arms industry is working overtime to arm some of the world’s most authoritarian regimes,”  The Guardian.  

Advertising watchdog to begin stricter enforcement around the use of terms such as “carbon neutral”, “net zero” and “nature positive” as part of a greenwashing crackdown. The Guardian.

The Bishops' Conference of Scotland have announced the appointment of Anne Marie Clements as the new Catholic Social Teaching Engagement Officer for the National Justice and Peace Commission.

Archbishop Paul Gallagher, acknowledged the lack of progress in the Vatican’s attempts at mediation but said they would continue.  “Even if there seem to be no openings for negotiations at the moment, we must never lose hope, believing that this war will end"  The Tablet.  

The implementation of the Scottish government's flagship legislation on domestic abuse is not good enough, according to a new report.  140 to 150 calls to Police Scotland a night about domestic abuse.  BBC News.

This year is shaping up to be one of top four warmest years on record – and has a modest chance of being the warmest on record.  Carbon Brief

We oppose the TUC’s call for an increase in arms spending. The British arms industry supplies some of the most aggressive and authoritarian regimes in the world and the weapons it exports have helped to destabilize whole regions of the world and contributed to the deaths of hundreds of thousands of people.

You can take action against the #IllegalImmigration Bill today by adding your name to this letter from the UK Youth Climate Coalition.

This #AntiRefugee bill will return to the Commons on Wednesday, (26th) and as it stands, it will ignore rulings from the European Court of Human Rights. #StopTheBill The Guardian.

Sign this SCIAF letter asking Humza Yousaf to put Scotland at the forefront of calls to build a just and green world, and free people from the injustices that shape their lives.

This report by the STUC shows the serious problems in Scotland’s adult social care workforce which makes up approximately 8% of all Scottish employment or one in 13 jobs. Yet this low-paid, predominantly female workforce is increasingly undervalued. 

Pope Francis stresses once again ‘War is Madness’  “Using weapons to resolve conflicts is a sign of weakness and fragility. Negotiation, proceeding in mediation, and conciliation require courage. #Peace“.  April 2023 Pope Video.

The #RefugeeBanBill will return to parliament this week and we must continue to oppose this proposed legislation at every step.  Please take a moment today to sign this online petition for #SafeRoutes for refugees fleeing war, famine and oppression.  #StopTheBill

The Care of Creation Office in conjunction with Trinity College, the Church of Scotland and Justice & Peace Scotland are proud to be bringing this public lecture on creation and climate change to Eyre Hall at the Glasgow Archdiocesan Offices on Friday 23rd June 2023 at 6pm as part of the Duff Lectures Series.  To find out more and to book one of the limited places, click the link below.

In June 2018, the Scottish Government was one of the first global voices to condemn the human rights violations of the Ortega-Murillo regime. Since then, it has done so consistently with further statements of solidarity and support in 2019, 2020 and 2021.  Its most recent statement released this week, coincides with 5 years of rebellion, resilience and resistance to the atrocities of the dictatorship.

Saturday, April 22nd is #EarthDay and so we wanted to take this opportunity to share some information on how climate change, sustainability and environmental issues are interconnected with the eradication of modern slavery and human trafficking, and what we as consumers can do about it.  Hope For Justice.

Numerous heat records have been broken across Southeast Asia, China and other parts of the continent in recent days as the region remains in the grip of a dangerously scorching heat wave, with Thailand in particular experiencing unusually extreme conditions. Weather historian Maximiliano Herrera is describing it as the “worst April heat wave in Asian history.” The Washington Post.  

The Bishops’ Conference of Scotland has called on the Scottish Parliament and Scottish Government to reject proposals to decriminalise abortion in Scotland.

Consider the very high numbers of people in India who work outdoors in agriculture and construction etc.  This country is at the bullseye of climate change and exposure impacts on outdoor workers.  The Times of India.   

Eco-Congregation Scotland are holding their annual gathering this coming Saturday 22nd April and you can join in online or in person as the event will take the format of a blended hybrid experience.  With great speakers lined up from both the climate movement and Christians Against Poverty Scotland it promises to be a great event.

He is Risen!  Alleluia!

This short video clip reflects on the Passion of our Lord and lifts our prayers and hopes to Him as we approach Easter.   

The illegal migration bill, which purports to end small boat crossings and would effectively bar asylum seeking, has made its way through committee stage. The controversial policy is more likely to be challenged in international courts than to curb small boat crossings. So why is the government pursuing it?

Over 1000 church leaders from across the UK have joined senior Church leaders from JPIT’s denominations in a joint statement expressing opposition to the government’s new ‘Illegal Migration Bill’.

America’s opioid crisis pales compared to the extent of the opioid crisis in Scotland, which in 2018 was more than double the rate in the United States. Methadone accounts for almost 50% of all Scotland’s drug related deaths and have almost tripled since 2015. This is more than double the rate of the United States.  Is the Scottish Government series about tackling Scotland's drug deaths?.

At the heart of the refugee convention is a framework in which states agree to cooperate with each other and share responsibility. “You see the UK pulling back from its responsibilities … That is being watched, there’s an impact, there are consequences, that’s very worrying.  The Guardian.  

A new YouGov poll commissioned by CAP reveals the deepening impact of poverty on people across Scotland as millions are losing sleep worrying about money. As our new First Minister takes office, CAP are calling on Humza Yousaf to keep tackling poverty as a priority.

“The lifeblood of every care organisation is the people who work for it. It is they who are the hands of care; it is they who deliver compassion, treat people with dignity"  Dr Donald Macaskill.  Understanding the social care pay gap and how to close it. 

From May 21-28 we will celebrate the 8th anniversary of the launch of the encyclical Laudato Si' as a global movement. "Hope for the Earth. Hope for humanity", is the theme that will guide us this year.  Register here for updates.

#FreeBishopAlvarez, Visibly thin and pale, the bishop received a visit from two of his siblings for the first time since he was transferred to that prison from house arrest. Havana Times

Last year, wildfires destroyed nearly two million acres of land throughout Europe—more than double the annual average over the past 16 years, according to the European Commission. In Spain alone, 493 blazes wiped out more than 750,000 acres. Common Dreams.  

Scottish Faiths Action for Refugees and Faith in Community Scotland have launched their inspiring new video series.  Journeys of Faith and Welcome are a series of videos produced to celebrate the stories of New Scots and faith communities, and the role faith has played in their journeys of seeking, finding and offering sanctuary.

A report by the Integration Joint Board said it could result in 13-month waits for care packages, while there will be no transitionary fund for children moving into adult services.  The number of home care hours will also be cut to bring in savings of £900,000.  BBC

Please take just 30 seconds to email your MP and say no to the #IllegalMigrationBill MPs are set to debate the Bill again on Monday 27/3. This is our next chance to show them the strength of our opposition. Safe Passage.

Pope Francis has chosen “Free to choose whether to migrate or to stay” as the theme for the 109th World Day of Migrants and Refugees, to be celebrated on 24 September.  Vatican News.  

“summary for policymakers”, to provide scientific underpinning for global climate action. It is written by scientists but haggled over by representatives of the UN’s nearly 200 governments, so some argue it is subject to watering down by regimes that do not like its messages.  The Guardian.

The climate time-bomb is ticking but the latest IPCC report shows that we have the knowledge & resources to tackle the climate crisis. We need to #ActNow to ensure a livable planet in the future.  Read the IPCC Report here 

The diplomatic office was closed at the request of the Nicaraguan government.  Vatican News.

Protesters have taken to the streets in Glasgow in an anti-racism demonstration organised partly in response to the UK Government’s Illegal Migration Bill.  STV

The Bishops’ Conference of Scotland have issued the following statement in response to the UK Government's illegal immigration bill. BCOS

I listened to too many people say: "It's up to the next generation to solve this problem." Which seems both ignoble and impractical. For all that undeniable intelligence and idealism, even the most engaged young people lack the structural power to make change by themselves. Common Dreams.

“Before Pope Francis, it was by no means clear that the Church was really prepared to take climate science seriously. It is now clear that you cannot be a Catholic and you cannot be a Christian and at the same time deny that climate change is an issue.”  Time.

Under the new Additional Jobcentre Support scheme claimants are being forced to attend  a jobcentre 10 times over a two week period.  

"Behind the wars, there is the arms industry, this is diabolical," Pope Francis says.  ICN

Senior Tories condemn ‘sickening’ plans which would allow unaccompanied minors to be held, in U-turn on past legislation.  The Guardian.

Nations around the world have agreed to a new global treaty for governing the sustainable use and conservation of the so-called “high seas”.  The treaty must be ratified by 60 member states before it can enter into force.  Carbon Brief.

"We believe it's a clear breach of the Refugee Convention, and remember even people with very compelling claims will simply not have the opportunity to put these forward."  BBC

This International Women’s Day, we’re sharing a story of what happens for women when trade is done well - and the impact ethical business can have on a whole community. Sadhna, a garments manufacturer in Rajasthan, is just one example of the thousands of inspirational small businesses empowering women and changing lives across the world. Transform Trade.

 "It is often unfairly penalising some of the poorest people in our society and forcing them to pay higher costs for their energy."  While some households choose to have a prepayment meter - as it allows people to pay as they go - others are forced into having them.  BBC.

“Let Justice and Peace Flow” is the theme chosen for Season of Creation 2023, the ecumenical celebration we hold each year from September 1, World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation, to October 4th, the feast of St. Francis of Assisi.

Immigration Services Union says legislation would divert people on to lorries, as Labour condemns cynical attempt to ‘dupe’ public.  The Guardian.

Boat believed to be bringing refugees from Afghanistan, Iran and Pakistan struck rocks off coast of Calabria.  European governments are urged to “stop arguing” and “agree on just, effective, shared measures to avoid more tragedies”.  The Guardian.

One year after the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Pax Christi International expresses our deep concern for countless victims of a war that has led to death, injury, displacement, trauma, and ecological harm.  Pax Christi Int.

Justice & Peace Scotland joined Glasgow Catholic Worker and Pax Christi Scotland at the Faslane Ash Wednesday service of repentence for nuclear weapons kept here in Scotland and all across the world.  A short excerpt from the service here

On Pancake Tuesday 2023, Justice & Peace Scotland held a networking event to get together with our friends and colleagues.  Watch the short video here 

Justice & Peace Scotland are recruiting for a new full time position - Catholic Social Teaching Engagement Officer.  Click the link for further details.  

Choose Fair Trade with the directory of independent retailers and wholesalers on the high street and online, across Scotland and beyond.

In this short video, Fr Tony O'Riordan answers 5 questions on how the people of Aleppo, Syria are coping 1 week after the devastating earthquake there.   

A guide to caring for our living planet.  The booklet, promoted by the Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI) and the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, was launched in a virtual event on Tuesday, February 14. The booklet distils the science on urgent environmental issues and explains how individuals and communities can take action to build a more sustainable and socially just future.

Peace witnesses will be held in Edinburgh & Glasgow on Friday 24th February 2023 to mark the 1st anniversary of the Invasion of Ukraine.  More details here.

Join us this Ash Wednesday, 22nd February, at Faslane as we join Glasgow Catholic Worker to witness against weapons of mass destruction.  All Welcome - More details here 

The Scottish Bishops' Conference have released a statement urging a 'sincere search for peace' following the recent imprisonment and expulsion of clergy and citizens by the government in Nicaragua.  

180 organisations have signed an open letter to leaders of all parties in response to the attack on Friday 10th February on a hotel in Knowsley where asylum seekers are housed. The letter calls on party leaders to ‘take a clear stand and condemn any further violence against those who come here to find safety’. 

An open letter signed by charities, including Justice & Peace Scotland, calls for leaders to create a ‘system that is fair and compassionate, and brings cohesion instead of division’.  The Independent.  

Nicaragua's President Daniel Ortega subsequently declared that all 222 of those released are no longer Nicaraguans and have been stripped of their citizenship.  ICN.

The dictatorship of Daniel Ortega in Nicaragua sentenced on Friday, Feb. 10, the bishop of Matagalpa, Rolando Álvarez Lagos, to 26 years and four months in prison, charging him with being a “traitor to the homeland.” CNA

Consumer groups call for a second chance to claim vouchers as £50m of government support for gas & electricity bills had gone unclaimed. The Guardian.

“Pollution from wood-burning is a growing source of fine particulate matter pollution in some areas, which is a serious threat to people’s health.” The Guardian.

“Human trafficking disfigures dignity. Exploitation and subjugation limit freedom and turn people into objects to use and discard. And the system of trafficking profits from the injustice and wickedness that oblige millions of people to live in conditions of vulnerability.”  For English translation click the settings wheel, subtitles on, auto-translate, scroll to English.

On this feast of St Bakhita, victim of human trafficking and slavery, 8th February, we share again our video, 'Open Wounds' which highlights the issue of human trafficking and modern slavery all across the world and right here in Scotland. YouTube.

The government has agreed a voluntary approach with groups representing social landlords on below-inflation rent increases.  For councils, rents are expected to increase by around 6.4% on average.  The Scottish Government also plans to increase the private rented sector rent cap to 3%. Scottish Gov.

Paul Morgan-Bentley, an undercover journalist  working with The Times exposes the shameful practice of forced entry to homes of vulnerable people to force-fit pre-payment meters. Watch his video report here.

"This year's theme is Ordinary People, recognising that it was ordinary people who fell victim to ordinary people perpetrating evil acts, while so many ordinary people stood by. It was also the bravery and selflessness of ordinary people that helped to rescue others.  ICN.

The Scottish Government is seeking views on its draft Energy Strategy and Just Transition Plan and invites communities, workers, citizens and businesses to engage in the process of designing Scotland’s energy transition. The consultation runs until Tuesday 4 April.

“Our territory, our forest, is everything that we have: where we live, feed, plant traditional foods, [obtain] medicines [and] crops, where we pray, the air we breathe.” Carbon Brief.

All tenants in Scotland have a right to live in a home that is reasonably fit for human habitation and free from dampness and mould. Anyone renting a home with damp or mouldy living conditions should not suffer in silence. Glasgow Evening Times.

Supporting your local sharing and repairing projects is an amazing way to change the way you consume, make less waste, and support your local community.  Find out more here

Most people living under a murderous regime don’t take an active role in a genocide. They do not become perpetrators or rescuers. They let the genocide take place around them, and they take no action to contribute to it, yet neither do they take action to challenge it, prevent it or to stop it happening.  Holocaust Memorial Day Trust.

The Laudato Si’ Movement and the Care of Creation Office have organised an online Scottish screening of the film The Letter: A Message For Our Earth for Thursday 2nd February at 7.00pm.

“We can imagine with what suffering he (God) must witness wars and acts of violence perpetrated by those who call themselves Christians.”  Vatican News.

The Government has ordered the UK’s biggest energy companies to stop forcing struggling families onto prepayment meters as it pledged to crack down on “trigger happy” firms “mistreating” vulnerable customers.  The i 

The UK’s approach to asylum seekers working is a particularly absolutist one. In Canada, asylum seekers have the right to work from the moment they file their asylum claim.  Free Movement.

A whistleblower, who works for Home Office contractor Mitie, and child protection sources describe children being abducted off the street outside the hotel and bundled into cars.  the Guardian.

A Guided Tour of the Unacceptable is a geographical and historical tour of the UK’s nuclear weapons on the Clyde and resistance to them.  Monday 23rd January 2023 at 7.30PM The Hippodrome Bo'ness.

Bishops, including Archbishop Nolan, from across Europe and North America who make up the Holy Land Coordination Group  have released this statement following their recent visit to Jordan to support the Christian population there. image Mazur/cbcew.org.uk.

The loss of pollinators, specifically, is already causing nearly 430,000 deaths every year by reducing the supply of healthy food, according to a study published in 2022.  Carbon Brief.

Dr. King believed that nuclear disarmament was essential and inextricably linked to the quest for social justice and racial equality.  Outrider.

Lützerath, in western Germany, is on the verge - literally - of being swallowed up by the massive coal mine on its doorstep.  Around 200 climate change activists, are now all that stand in the way of the diggers expanding the Garzweiler opencast mine.  BBC.

Catholics may have heard of the Pope's encyclical 'Laudato Si' but what does it mean in practical terms for individuals, parishes & Dioceses.  Join this online event on Tuesday 17th Jan at 7.30pm.

Seas dominate global weather patterns and the climate crisis is causing profound and damaging changes.  The Guardian.

18 months after the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan, File on 4 hears from people still stuck in hiding; their names blacklisted because of the work they did for the British.  The programme investigates the failures of these schemes, which have seen tiny numbers getting to safety in the UK. Thousands more left living in fear, facing torture and kidnap have been left languishing for months without contact or support.

Archbishop Nolan, President of Justice & Peace Scotland, delivers his yearly message to be read at all services in Scotland across the weekend of 7th/8th January 2023, the Feast of the Epiphany.  

The suggested prayers, below, were edited from contributions of several of our National Commissioners. You are encouraged to use some of them at the Sacred Liturgy in your worshipping community.

Archbishop Nolan releases this message to be read at all Catholic Churches on 7th & 8th January 2023.

Pope Francis releases his message for the World Day of Peace to be celebrated on 1 January 2023, and recalls that all crises are interconnected and that we must not forget any of them, but work for the good of humanity. “No one can be saved alone.

"Nobody puts their life at risk like this unless they feel they have no other option, and until we have more accessible safe routes for people to claim asylum, there is a danger we may see more such incidents," Sky News.

The government says the needs of UK steelmaking override the environmental impact. The industry thinks differently.  The Obsever.

..there isn’t the good will because if you do make a law that is totally human rights based, somebody is going to lose out financially.”  The Tablet.

"Nature is humanity's best friend.

Without nature, we have nothing.

Without nature, we are nothing.

Nature is our life-support system"

Those fleeing persecution or conflict in their homelands are often left struggling in poor accommodation, far from the people who care about them. Their deaths often go unannounced or forgotten.  Read their stories here. 

“Having previously made more progress on decarbonising than the UK, this report shows that Scotland is now falling behind on a number of key areas...SCCS.

These warrants – granted under an obscure court process lacking in scrutiny – give energy giants the right to force families who are in their debt to fit a prepayment meter.  The i.

Living with dignity means having sufficient income to afford the essentials.  Emma Jackson of Christians Against Poverty writes for One Parent Families Scotland.

More than 650 scientists are urging world leaders to stop burning trees to make energy because it destroys valuable habitats for wildlife.  Letter says bioenergy is wrongly deemed ‘carbon neutral’ and contributes to wildlife loss.  The Guardian. 

Locking up people who enter the country "illegally" and barring them from ever settling in the UK are “options” under consideration by Suella Braverman and No 10... The Guardian. 

Deforestation in Brazil's Amazon rainforest fell in the 12 months through July, according to government data released on Wednesday, retreating from a 15-year high under outgoing President Jair Bolsonaro. Reuters.

Offering prayers for at least 27 migrants who died in the Channel a year ago, Bishop Paul McAleenan, lead bishop for migrants and refugees for the bishops of England and Wales, said: “This avoidable tragedy challenges us to reflect on our collective responsibility for protecting refugees and migrants.  The Tablet.

Justice & Peace Scotland joined Ayrshire Hope Not Hate on Sunday 27th November 2022 at the gates of Scotland's only Immigration Detention Centre - Dungavel.  

In his message for the 6th World Day of the Poor, Pope Francis invites Christians to greater solidarity and responsibility for the poor in society, stressing the importance of putting our faith into practice through personal involvement that cannot be delegated to others.

'In our report, we look at four reasons why Churches should be investing in climate solutions. The first is caring for creation...our second reason is loving our neighbour...our third reason is acting with hope...and (fourth), investments as a prophetic action'.  Operation Noah.

In some cases, debt repayment rates were set so high that vulnerable customers self-disconnected - in other words, did not top-up their prepayment meter when the credit ran out.  BBC

Thousands of migrants had been placed in tents at the former military airfield during the autumn, leading to overcrowding and outbreaks of disease.  BBC

In the middle of the economic cost-of-living crisis that we’re all facing, we need to make sure as a society that we don’t forget about Scotland’s drug death crisis.  FAVOR UK

COP27 finally ends with historic agreement on Loss and Damage finance but lack of progress on agreeing emission reductions leaves critical temperature threshold dangerously out of reach.  Stop Climate Chaos Scotland.

Fr Alexander Smerechynskyy, national director of Catholic charity Stella Maris Ukraine, and port chaplain to Odessa, explains how the war with Russia has affected seafarers.

On Sunday 27th November at 1pm Justice & Peace Scotland will join our friends from Ayrshire Hope Not Hate outside Scotland's only Immigration Detention Centre - Dungavel.  Our peaceful solidarity gathering will last approximately 1 hour.

The Right To Remain Toolkit is free to use, and made for people who want to learn more about the legal process, or a particular part of the legal process when trying to navigate the UK asylum system.  

This short 2 minute video from Care4Calais has gone viral on social media.   It explains very well why there is no reason to fear refugees crossing on small boats and how better the asylum system could work if safe legal routes were open to them. 

Justice & Peace Scotland are one of 112 signatories on this letter to the First Minister urging the change required to redesign our economy in service of people and planet.

Join this Operation Noah webinar on Tuesday 22nd November at 7pm to find out how and why Churches and faith institutions in the UK should increase investment in climate solutions.

18 countries sign this statement condeming the house arrest of Bishop Alvarez the unjust detention of Catholic priests in El Chipote prison in Nicaragua.

Climate campaign groups combined forces to march through the city centre on the Global Day of Action during the UN Climate Conference COP27 which is being held in Egypt.  The Edinburgh Reporter.

Saturday, Nov 12 will see mass mobilisations across the country and put thousands of people on the streets to demand Climate Justice in solidarity with the Global Day of Action called by Egyptian groups at COP27. 

The Commission of the Bishops' Conferences of the European Union (COMECE) have released a statement on the current energy crisis, calling on the EU to "ensure a fair access to affordable energy for all, especially the most vulnerable, while not losing sight of the long-term objectives of a just and sustainable energy transition".

As Scotland continues to show leadership on loss and damage: all rich nations must urgently address this grave injustice at COP27.  Stop Climate Chaos Scotland Statement.

Bishop John Arnold, from the Diocese of Salford and Chair of CAFOD's trustees, said: "The environment cannot be isolated from our relationship with God. We are blessed with stewardship over the earth, but with this comes the responsibility to protect our planet and preserve it for future generations.  ICN

“The truth is, and this is indisputable, that wind power and solar power are cheaper energy than fossil fuel energy today.  John Kerry,  The Independent.

Join this CAFOD campaign by sending this message to Rishi Sunak urging the government to work at this year's climate talks to stop the COP-out at COP27. #ClimateEmergency

Is your church or organisation providing a warm hub this winter? If so, you can register the details, such as opening times etc on the Warm Welcome Uk website.  Also, enter your postcode to find out what support is near you.

Watch the Peace Witness Service at the gates of Faslane held on Saturday 29th October, where we were joined by Archibishop Nolan and the Dr Greenshields, Moderator of the Church of Scotland.  #NuclearBan

As Disarmament Week came to a close on Saturday, 29 October Justice & Peace Scotland gathered with our Bishop President, Archbishop Nolan of Glasgow, Dr Greenshields, Moderator of the Church of Scotland and some dedicated anti nuclear campaigners to hold a Peace Witness at the gates of Faslane Nuclear Base on the Clyde. ICN  Image Janet Fenton.

"If these claims were simply processed, these thousands of people could move on with their lives. If their claims were to be granted they could become part of our communities, get jobs and find homes. There would be no £7m-a-day cost to the taxpayer of keeping them in hotels; they could contribute to our economic growth"...Care4Calais.

“Home Secretary, when you talk of ‘safe and legal routes’, you must be aware that it is impossible to ask refugees to come exclusively through such a path when even Afghan interpreters who are eligible for one of our few existing schemes remain in hiding from the Taliban" Evening Standard.

This is Addiction Awarenes Week and the key messages for this week are  that addiction is a serious mental health issue that deserves compassion & understanding and that #RecoveryIsPossible, & attainable, with the right care and support.  #NotAChoice #SupportNotStigma see campaign video here

Calls are growing for a winter ban on energy suppliers forcing struggling households on to prepayment meters, amid evidence that large numbers of people already can’t afford to top them up – leading to “disconnection by the back door”.  The Guardian.

Justice & Peace supporters will be at the North Gate at Faslane Nuclear Base in Scotland on Saturday, 29th October, at 1pm to pray for peace and an end to nuclear weapons.  ICN.

In 2022, some people live without heat, light, and power because they don’t have money to top up their prepayment meter.  Fuel Bank Foundation is the only national charity whose sole focus is to provide immediate, tangible, meaningful and long-lasting help to people living in fuel crisis. 

I felt comfortable enough to share my debt journey, which started with difficulties budgeting due to ADHD and a lack of financial knowledge. The money I had wasn’t enough to pay what I owed. I knew I needed to reach out to somebody.  CAP.

We are delighted to announce that Archbishop Nolan, President of Justice & Peace Scotland and Rev Iain Greenshields The Moderator of the Church of Scotland will be present and address the Peace Witness at Faslane on Saturday 29th Oct @ 1pm.

In his remarks, Archbishop Caccia recalled that the Cuban missile crisis was averted only through banning nuclear weapons, disarmament, dialogue, and the building of mutual trust.  ICN

This Santa Marta Group Action Plan against Human Trafficking outlines 9 key recommendations of what the authors think are the most urgent areas to eradicate human trafficking and to be followed up by action.

This helpful resource from the Catholic Parliamentary Office will signpost anyone to the information they need to check they are receiving the government support they are entitled to. #CostOfLivingCrisis

Archbishop William Nolan of Glasgow has called on UK Government to increase benefits in line with inflation. "The poor must not be sacrificed in an attempt to shore up the Government's credibility with the markets," he said last week. "Making the poor poorer is not an act of fiscal prudence, it is an act of injustice."  ICN

“Pregga” is being sold for up to £2 a pill in the UK after a sudden spike in production of counterfeit versions of the anti-epilepsy medication which is used by heroin and pain killer addicts to sustain their high – with deadly effects.  The i

A reminder from Bishop McGee of how we can all play our part in combatting #HumanTrafficking and #ModernSlavery wherever we live.  #SpotTheSigns #ItsTimeToEndSlavery  See the video here

"There is a myth that hunger is caused by lack of food, but there is enough food in the world. The reason people face chronic hunger is poverty, they can't afford to buy the food that is available. Newsweek.

On November 2, 2022 the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) will be automatically renewed for another three years, unless either the Italian or the Libyan government cancel it. The continuation of this memorandum will consolidate the inhumane conditions in Libya for people on the move.  ICN.

Join thousands of people taking action in hundreds of cities worldwide on October 15, 2022, to raise awareness of human trafficking.  Justice & Peace Scotland will be present at both the Edinburgh & Glasgow 'Walk For Freedom' register to take part here.

From 5.30pm on Tuesday 4th October, The Feast of St Francis, The Letter - A Message From Our Earth will be available to watch here.

A House of Lords committee urges No 10 to use the lessons of pandemic to enable people to make decisions about travel, food, and energy use.  The Independent.

The First Minister's speech at the Scottish Government's hybrid conference ‘Addressing Loss and Damage: Practical Action‘.

This week marks world homelessness and world mental health day. These two issues are inextricably linked.  The Scotsman

The inaugural #Romero Lecture & Thanksgiving Mass on the anniversary of the cannonisation of St Oscar Romero takes place this Friday 14th October at 6pm at Sacred Heart Church, Lauriston, Edinburgh.  A livestream link is also available on registration.

The Justice & Peace Europe International Workshop took place from 7-9 October in Assisi and Rondine.  More than sixty participants from 21 countries were present. Here is the final declaration: 

Archbishop Nolan has called for the UK Government to end the delay that is causing so many people so much anxiety and stress, and give an assurance that benefits will go up in line with inflation.

“In pursuit of the Gospel mandate to love God and our neighbour, Catholics also have a responsibility to continue to lobby those in authority to ensure that their policies and actions do not widen the gap between rich and poor. Irish Bishops
 

During a speech last Friday, President Putin said the US had created a "precedent" by using nuclear weapons against Japan at the end of World War Two.  BBC 

It's Wednesday of Challenge Poverty Week and the focus today is on Social Security and ensuring our social security system provides a decent standard of living for everyone. #ChallengePoverty #TurnTheTide

Tax u-turn is welcome, but now we must boost social security.  Peter Kelly, Poverty Alliance.

OTD, 70 years ago the UK carried out its first nuclear tests in Australia. This kicked off 12 atmospheric tests and radiological and toxic experiments. Decades after, survivors are still suffering the consequences and also fighting for justice.  ICAN.

Poverty is restricting lives where you live – but we can turn the tide together.  Together we can redesign our economy to #TurnTheTide on poverty.  The Press and Journal.

Come along in person or watch online on Friday 14th October at 6pm -  Sacred Heart Jesuit Church, 28 Lauriston Street, Edinburgh.  Booking essential on Eventbrite here.

In 2015, Pope Francis wrote Laudato Si’ (The Letter); an encyclical letter about the environmental crisis to every single person in the world. A few years later, four voices that have gone unheard in global conversations have been invited to an unprecedented dialogue with the Pope. Trailer - film release 4th Oct.

Three men are facing lengthy jail-terms after police swooped on a massive cannabis factory in Glasgow, the three men had also been accused of holding named individuals in "servitude" to work at the units.  Glasgow Live
 

“One of the biggest issues…that is missing and lacking is that loss and damage is basically only [looked at] from a monetary point of view, but there are losses and damages which cannot be quantified in monetary terms, in terms of loss of ecosystems, loss of cultural heritage, loss of life.  Carbon Brief.

On Wed 21 September 2022, and with the intensifying symptoms of climate breakdown making the case for ecological conversion ever more powerfully, Catholics gathered in Mannofield again for the second diocesan Prayer for Creation.  ICN

Pope Francis recalled that today the Church celebrates the World Day of Migrants and Refugees. May we welcome and assist them, he said, as they also can help our communities grow, and the Kingdom of God can be realized together with them.  Vatican News.

At a time in which nuclear rhetoric and the threat of nuclear war is on the rise, Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Parolin has stressed the Holy See's firm stance against nuclear tests and expressed its support for the UN Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons.  ICN

1982: Since I have been asked to do so, and not because I have any exclusive wisdom, experience or success in this field, I would like to share a few thoughts on the work of trying to mobilise public opinion for disarmament.  Peace News.

The G20 alone accounts for 75% of global emissions, many times more than those of the club of climate-vulnerable countries, which includes Pakistan, who emit less than 1% of greenhouse gases but end up paying over the odds in human, social and economic costs for the carbon profligacy of others.  The Guardian. 

Entries are now open for the Columbans Schools competition.  If you are aged between 13-18 why not take a look here for a chance to win.

Guterres has previously accused governments of having an “addiction” to fossil fuels and has called new investments in oil, coal and gas “moral and economic madness”.  “Our planet is burning,” Guterres said, calling on world leaders to to end their “suicidal war against nature”.  The Guardian.

This Christians Against Poverty online event will highlight the devastating impact of rising costs on local communities across Scotland. There will be a panel of speakers including CAP National Director, Emma Jackson, who will be joined by Anne McCormack from Broke Not Broken and Caitlin Logan from One Parent Families Scotland. Each panel member will share from their knowledge and experience of working with people being impacted by rising costs.

Recently, we have been seeing false and very harmful arguments around tactical nuclear weapons and how their use wouldn’t be "THAT bad". ICAN have produced these infographics about what tactical nuclear weapons are and the catastrophic damages they would cause. #nuclearban

“we are still way off track”, adding that it remains shameful that resilience-building to climate shocks was still so neglected.  “It is a scandal that developed countries have failed to take adaptation seriously, and shrugged off their commitments to help the developing world” said Mr. Guterres. 

Bee-killing neonicotinoids have been banned across Europe since 2013, but the UK government has approved these deadly chemicals for emergency use - posing a lethal threat to bee populations.  Greenpeace petition.

Archbishop Eamon Martin said: "As a gesture of solidarity with the people of Ukraine, who have been stricken by war since the 24 February, it is proposed that a day of prayer be held throughout the whole continent. I welcome this powerful prayerful initiative and invite everyone to pray in a special way for peace in Ukraine on Wednesday"  14th September 2022.  Prayer by Bishop Nowakowski here.

Already aware of the immorality of nuclear weapons, Bruce joined Christian CND in 1960. In 1975, he carried out an exorcism of a Polaris nuclear submarine at the base in Faslane, in Scotland, with the words ‘From the willingness to murder, Good Lord, deliver us.’

“The Earth may have left a ‘safe’ climate state beyond 1C global warming,”“This sets Earth on course to cross multiple dangerous tipping points that will be disastrous for people across the world. To maintain liveable conditions on Earth and enable stable societies, we must do everything possible to prevent crossing tipping points.”  The Guardian.

As COP27 approaches, in the context of mounting climate impacts, we are reminded of the absolute priority of the success of global forums to find solutions borne of compassion and solidarity, which are for the poor and in pursuit of the common good.  The Tablet.

In the last month, attacks against civilians and other related violence have resulted in 232 civilian casualties including 57 children. The last week of July witnessed the highest increase of child casualties in one week since early 2020.  CAAT

Join with us to ask for double the energy support for households on means-tested benefits, and a ban on energy companies forcibly switching customers to pre-payment meters. Write to the new Prime Minister now, and demand an adequate response to the cost of living crisis.  CAP.

Pope Francis urges us all to “Build the Future with Migrants and Refugees” For Francis, migrants, refugees, and others forced to the periphery of our present-day societies are at the beating heart of God’s Kingdom. JRS 

I pray that all in our society will work together to find ways, both short and long term, to alleviate this crisis which threatens the well-being of so many people.  ICN

"To automatically deduct 100% of any electricity arrears and up to 90% of any gas arrears before any credit can be used to heat or power households is simply not good enough, in fact, it borders on callous," Metro

"We have launched a petition calling on the new Prime Minister to take bold action and pay up for damages that countries like ours have caused".  SCIAF

Dear brothers and sisters!  “Listen to the voice of creation” is the theme and invitation of this year’s Season of Creation. The ecumenical phase begins on 1 September with the World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation, and concludes on 4 October with the feast of Saint Francis. It is a special time for all Christians to pray and work together to care for our common home.  Vatican.

In preparation for the 108th World Day of Migrants and Refugees (WDMR), which will be celebrated on the last Sunday of September, the Holy Father invites us to grow together as a Church, realising that many Catholic migrants and refugees revitalise the Christian communities that welcome them.

Scottish Faith Action For Refugees have produced an information sheet for Ukrainians living in Scotland, in both English and Ukrainian. It includes information on key helplines, both of Scotland’s Ukrainian associations, and links to further information. Please feel free to print these out and display them in your church, food bank, or community project.

Just adhead of the Season of Creation, Kenneth Sadler, Aberdeen diocesan representative for Justice & Peace Scotland reflects on 'Resisting Ecological Conversion'.  ICN

Rafael Grossi, director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said the team was expected to arrive at the plant later this week.  "We must protect the safety and security of Ukraine's and Europe's biggest nuclear facility," BBC

Ahead of the energy price cap announcement on Friday 26 August, Scottish debt help charity says it’s already receiving desperate calls from people in emergency situations. Christians Against Poverty.

All of Europe's rivers have dried up to some extent.  Apart from the obvious impact on boats..Hydroelectric power has dropped by a significant 20%.  Rapidly-sinking river levels across Europe have exposed relics of the past - including so-called "hunger stones" warning of potential famine.  Image by Peter H from Pixabay

New national statistics show that homelessness is rising back to pre-pandemic levels. A shocking number of 8,635 children are currently stuck in temporary accommodation, the highest number on record.  Shelter Scotland.

The Church has been celebrating the World Day of Migrants and Refugees (WDMR) since 1914.  Every year the WDMR is the last Sunday of September; in 2022 it will be celebrated on 25 September. As the title for his annual message, the Holy Father has chosen “Building the Future with Migrants and Refugees”.

The Bishops' Conference of Scotland have issued the following statement on the situation in Nicaragua:

Bishop Álvarez has been a key religious voice in discussions of Nicaragua’s future since 2018, when a wave of protests against Ortega's government led to a sweeping crackdown on opponents.  The Independent.

The war in Yemen is made possible by UK arms sales of £22bn since March 2015. The Campaign Against The Arms Trade are handing this letter into the new Prime Minister on 6th September - please take a minute to sign the letter today.

In an open letter to Pope Francis a group exiled from Nicaragua have written this letter to Pope Francis asking for his help as the persecution of the church there worsens.

Free school meals for all primary school pupils would reduce the stigma...it would also help reinforce the understanding of food as "a human right, not an act of charity". "We have long accepted the universal provision of the rights to education and healthcare and children's right to food should be fulfilled as a necessary universal good in the same way," Children's Commissioner.

UK ministers who backed sending asylum seekers to Rwanda were warned by their own adviser that its government tortures and kills political opponents. BBC

Justice & Peace Scotland have joined more than 120 organisations in signing this letter to the First Minister urging the Scottish Government to #BridgeTheGap for more children by doubling the Scottish Child bridging payments.

In Pope Francis' address to young people in Europe he challenges them to think about war and war in Ukraine especially, using Franz as model.  ICN.

Annemarie Ward, founder of the charity and co-writer of the bill, said the lack of a right to rehab means lower-income people are left without a way to overcome their addiction.  The Scottish Catholic.

“This crisis goes far beyond politics; this is a moral issue – our responsibilities to our neighbours and in particular to those who have the least and whose needs are the greatest.”  The Tablet.

As people of faith committed to building a peaceful and just world, we come together to unite our voices on this occasion of the Tenth Review Conference of the Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), which coincides with the solemn anniversaries of the days atomic bombs were dropped on the cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945.

In 1982 the bishops of Scotland released a powerful and prophetic statement on nuclear weapons.  Justice & Peace Scotland have made a short film of this statement using voices of today.  On this 77th anniversary of the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki we hope you will watch and share our message.  

The police actions followed an order for the immediate halt of transmissions by six Roman Catholic radio stations.  ICN.

Andrew Hamilton SJ wrote this short reflection as part of the liturgy at Faslane on Saturday 6th August 2022.  #Hiroshima #Nagasaki #Remembrance.

"Nuns Healing Hearts" was launched by Pope Francis, at the Vatican, on May 10, 2019 to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Talitha Kum, the international network formed by the commitment of Catholic Religious Sisters against human trafficking.

faith groups are "thinking of opening their church halls as heating hubs so that pensioners, instead of freezing at home, can have a warm place to go to"....it's about time the government responded.  Sky News.

On the memorial of St John Vianney, patron saint of parish priests, Fr Eugenio Montesi SX talks of his life and vocation in this Missio Scotland podcast recalling how the motto of the Xaverians - to make the world a single family - inspired him to a life of service.

"We’re not reacting quickly enough to avoid the damage or to even begin to repair the damage that we’ve done”.  The Tablet.

“An expanded agreement would also provide an opportunity to negotiate a nationwide ceasefire, humanitarian and economic issues, and to prepare for the resumption of the Yemeni-led political process under UN auspices to reach a sustainable and just peace,”  UN

Some 14 boats were detected on Monday, which suggests an average of around 50 people crossed the Channel per boat. Last week a report claimed that French and British coastguards failed to stop the worst migrant drowning in the Channel because they passed the responsibility to help onto each other.  The Independent.  

Adriana Adiova left her home in Slovakia after being approached by another woman who offered her work in the UK, but on arrival in Glasgow she found herself at the mercy of a gang who sold her for profit.  Glasgow Live.

There is a lack of knowledge at the very highest levels of decision making that is keeping us trapped in an everlasting loop of ignorance and suffering. Addiction is a condition that needs treated medically, emotionally and spiritually.  The Scottish Catholic.

1,330 people lost their lives to drug misuse in Scotland in 2021, according to latest figures published by National Records of Scotland.  The number is 1% lower than 2020 which makes it the first year since 2013 in which drug misuse deaths have not increased. However, it is still the second highest annual total on record.  National Records Scotland.

Greenpeace is taking legal action to stop Shell's Jackdaw gas field.  The government approved Jackdaw without checking the full impact it would have on the climate.  Please sign the petition.

All talks from NJPN Conference 2022, 'Hope is a verb with its sleeves rolled up' can be seen on Youtube here  

ITV News investigates a cycle of addiction, crime and incarceration.  We see what's done to get inmates drug free and where this breaks down amid Scotland's record drug deaths.  

7 million people are facing starvation. Half of Somalia’s children under age 5 are malnourished. At least one child is now dying every day.  There just isn’t enough food.  itvnews

On Thursday 28th July 2022 the National Records For Scotland will publish the Drug-related death numbers in Scotland, 2021 and as has been the case for a number of years the figures are expected to be stark. Join us outside the Scottish Parliament on 28/7 at 1pm to demand change.

Lifestyle changes are no substitute for collective action. But personal carbon-cutting still matters – it’s a powerful way to signal the climate emergency to those around us, move the needle on policy and set bigger cultural changes in motion.  New Internationalist.

"Each passing moment is an opportunity for everyone, especially world leaders, to reverse the biodiversity and climate crises".  ICN image M Mazur CBCEW

Do you think you could make that difference to people detained in #Dungavel? If so, Scottish Detainee Visitors are recruiting volunteers. Take a look here for more details

On Tuesday 19th July 2022, Justice & Peace Scotland supported the #StopRwanda Day of Action on Social Meida with this short video.

In a judgment handed down late on Monday, Mr Justice Holgate said the strategy lacked any explanation or quantification of how the government’s plans would achieve the emissions target, and as such had failed to meet its obligations under Climate Change Act (CCA) 2008.  The Guardian.

A ferocious blaze has ripped through the pine forests in the Bordeaux region of France for five days straight, while wildfires in Portugal have killed one person.  The Independent.

As well as charities and human rights groups, opponents included church leaders and - reportedly - the Prince of Wales.  BBC.

Representatives from across Scotland’s faith communities have written to UK Government minister and COP26 president Alok Sharma asking for a meeting to discuss what progress has been made since COP26, the United Nations Climate Change Conference, which was held in Glasgow in November 2021.

"His story demonstrates the tragic extent of human trafficking in our midst and how vulnerable children as well as adults are targeted and victimised. Sir Mo is one of many thousand victims of human trafficking in the UK and one of over 40 million victims across the world.  ICN

The “deep interdependency” between societal wellbeing and ecosystems shows that “western science has finally caught up with that which Indigenous people have known for a long time”.  Carbon Brief.

Sir Mo says he was about eight or nine years old when he was taken from home to stay with family in Djibouti. He was then flown over to the UK by a woman he had never met and wasn't related to.  BBC News.

Study shows poorest hit hardest as 1.6m more UK households are struggling compared with late 2021.  The majority of those have cut the quality of food they eat, a third have pawned possessions and a quarter have cancelled insurance.  The Guardian.

The nuns had been working with the poor in Nicaragua since 1988 and ran a children's nursery, a home for abused and abandoned girls and a nursing home.  BBC News.

Archbishop William Nolan of Glasgow has spoken out strongly against the UK governments immigration policy. During a visit to Dungavel refugee detention centre on Sunday, the Archbishop said that he was "appalled and scandalised" by their plans to send people to Rwanda.  ICN

9 out of 22 Catholic dioceses in England and Wales have now divested from fossil fuels. Last October, ahead of COP26, the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Scotland and all Catholic dioceses in Scotland announced their divestment. ICN

A new report by Green Alliance, an independent thinktank, shows that the food used by the UK alone for biofuels could feed 3.5 million people.The Guardian.

Cancelling poor nations’ historic debts would allow their governments to channel money into climate adaptation.   The Guardian.

We manage CARES - the Scottish Government’s Community and Renewable Energy Scheme. CARES supports communities across Scotland to engage with, participate in and benefit from the energy transition to net zero emissions.

Last November, in his prior role as Bishop of Galloway (Scotland), he was instrumental in leading the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Scotland to divest from fossil fuels ahead of the United Nations 26th Climate Change Conference in Glasgow. Laudato Si Movement.

Unseen’s detailed study reveals new insights into modern slavery methods of recruitment and control.

United in their condemnation of the UK governments Rwanda policy, church leaders speak out. Churches Together Britain & Ireland.
 

Justice & Peace Scotland Campaign of the Month for July 2022 We urge you to copy the text below and send it to your MP. 

“Working overtime continuously reduces your strength and leaves you overstressed,” he says, speaking from a ship in a Scottish port, from a small cabin he shares with three other migrants.  The Guardian.

In the light of recent public debate on the subject of abortion, Scotland’s Catholic Bishops offer this perspective to the people of Scotland.  Catholic Parliamentary Office.

JRF and Save the Children’s response to Best Start, Bright Futures the Scottish Government’s second Tackling Child Poverty Delivery Plan.

Justice and Peace denounces the culture of death behind the European and Spanish migration policy that claims thousands of lives every year.

At this particular moment in history where the world seems to be at a crossroads, the courageous vision of this legal instrument, strongly inspired by ethical and moral arguments, appears ever more timely....

The Archbishop referred specifically to the recent "unsettling" practice of externalization of asylum procedures and of delegating, by proxy, the responsibility to receive newly-arriving migrants - as the UK is proposing with the plan to send migrants to Rwanda. Image Comece

The five reflections in this resource are intended to highlight the experiences and challenges of people seeking asylum. They are designed for use in Catholic schools for Refugee Week, however they are also ideal for personal/group reflection. Each one is accompanied by quotations from Pope Francis, and a short prayer.  ICN

The Home Office is planning to send migrants to Rwanda in an effort to curb Channel crossings. STV News.

The Archbishop of Glasgow was at Dungavel Immigration Removal Centre on Sunday 12th June to show solidarity with those detained there, and all over the UK. May his words echo long in the ears of the UK Government and bring about the change of heart needed to end the hostile environment which serves no one. #RefugeesWelcome

“Perhaps if we spent less money funding war and more funding peace; perhaps if we put less effort into selling arms and more effort into eradicating poverty; then fewer people would be forced to leave their homeland and their families.”  Scottish Catholic.

Somalia alone used to import 92 per cent of its wheat from Russia and Ukraine, but now supply lines are blocked.”  UN.

Four people including ex-MP Phyo Zeya Thaw and Ko Jimmy to be put to death.  Tne Guardian.

Six bishops including Archbishop Nolan, President of Justice & Peace Scotland, having just returned from the Holy Land have released the following statement. 

Juliet Schor, professor of sociology at Boston College, and lead researcher on the pilot, said: "The four-day week is generally considered to be a triple dividend policy - helping employees, companies, and the climate.  Sky News.

Report for Aberlour children’s charity reveals scale of school meal debt for first time.  The Guardian.  

UN agency says most arriving in UK by small boat should not be called migrants, in challenge to Priti Patel.  The Guardian.

Turn my sadness into compassion. Turn my tiredness into advocacy.  America Magazine.  

Churches are encouraged to hold special services on Sunday 19th June, to remember those migrants & refugees who have lost their lives seeking safety.  #WorldRefugeeDay.  ICN

Today is the 7th anniversary of the landmark encyclical on care for our common home #LaudatoSi Have a look at this practical guide with ideas for the short, medium & long term for individuals & parishes.

The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights said: “The police siege of the priests of the Catholic Church reconfirms that in Nicaragua no one is free anymore from the relentless persecution of divergence, of the demand for justice, and now of pastoral work.”  Crux.

"As people of faith we are called to be custodians of God's creation, 'this is essential to a life of virtue; it is not an optional or a secondary aspect of our Christian experience' (Laudato Si, 217). On this the seventh anniversary of its publication, I strongly encourage all people to read Laudato Si' and inform themselves of their faith-based ecological obligation.  ICN.

During Laudato Si Week which runs from 22nd May - 29 May 2022, you are invited to become part of the community by joining the many events. These webinars, gatherings and discussions will offer information about new developments, hands-on guidance from leading experts, and opportunities to pray and to reflect on your journey with Laudato Si’.

Statement of the secretaries general of national commissions of Justice and Peace Europe gathered on May 14th - 15th 2022 in Szombathely/Hungary.

This documentary sets out to discover why there are so many drug-releated deaths in Scotland, meeting the people living in the midst of the crisis every day.  BBC iPlayer episode 2. 

“Renewables are the only path to real energy security, stable power prices and sustainable employment opportunities. If we act together, the renewable energy transformation can be the peace project of the 21st century,” said Mr Guterres.

This will be a week of radical exploration as we use scripture, story, and song to deepen our common humanity and to acknowledge our contested histories.  Hurry to book a place, read on for more details.

The minister will use a speech on Monday to urge countries to accelerate climate action despite the current global challenges.  Independent.

Latin Patriarch Pierbattista Pizzaballa told reporters at St. Joseph Hospital in Jerusalem that Friday’s incident, broadcast around the world, was a “disproportionate use of force” to the Palestinian flag-waving crowd of thousands proceeding from the hospital to a nearby Catholic church in Jerusalem’s Old City. America.

The UK made history in November 2021 by helping to secure the first mention of the need to tackle fossil fuels in a global climate agreement, at the COP26 summit in Glasgow.  Factcheck.

Our oceans will continue to become warmer and more acidic, sea ice and glaciers will continue to melt, sea level will continue to rise and our weather will become more extreme. Arctic warming is disproportionately high and what happens in the Arctic affects all of us,”  UN News  

As the war in Ukraine wages on, the Vatican’s Secretary for Relations with States, British Archbishop Paul Gallagher, is planning to visit Kyiv next week, where he is expected to hold top level meetings.  CRUX.

If they are granted refugee status, they will be offered residency in Rwanda, but will not be given refugee status in Britain or flown back, regardless of the outcome of their application.  The i

“A condition in our modelling is that we produce the same amount of food per head in 2050,” he said. “But it’s very difficult to do this unless you see a change in farming practice, and especially unless you see a shift in arable farming versus livestock.  The Guardian.

Prof Sir Michael Marmot, a public health expert at University College London, said: “If one household in seven is food insecure, society is failing in a fundamental way. These figures on food insecurity are all the more chilling because the problem is soluble, but far from being solved it is getting worse.”  The Guardian. 

Juliette Bone explains her role as a Columban Faith in Action Volunteer and encourages other young people to consider the year long position which, she explains, will provide brilliant opportunities for young people to delve deeper into their faith through action and encounter.

In this short recorded interview Adam Baker of the Christian charity Refugee Roots sets out the concerns people have in trying to find sanctuary here in the UK and also the concerns of those from the UK trying to reach out and offer help.

Pope Francis has once again strongly spoken out against nuclear weapons. In a 25 minute meeting today with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, before the General Audience, he said the use and possession of nuclear weapons is inconceivable.  ICN.

The St Vincent de Paul Society (SVP) has described the passing of the government's Nationality and Borders Bill into law with no amendments as a "dark day for human rights and humanity."  ICN.

Since 2019 there has been a vast increase in the number of asylum seekers living in Home Office initial/contingency accommodation including hotels and repurposed Ministry of Defence (MoD) barracks with current estimates reaching over 37,000 people. This report looks at the impact on physical and mental health.

The bishops called for a wider reassessment of refugee policies, saying the people fleeing violence or persecution have a “moral claim on our assistance, whether they fit legal definitions of a refugee or not”.  The Tablet.

The Poverty Alliance have produced this helpful leaflet with details on how to apply for the Scottish Child Payment benefit.  #CostOfLivingCrisis.

food for thought on Chernobyl Disaster Remembrance Day.  ICN.

John Kerry – President Biden’s special presidential envoy for climate – says he doesn’t “see the evidence yet” of global leaders revisiting their national climate pledges as agreed at COP26 in Glasgow last year. Washington Post.

"developed countries, those who are largely responsible for climate change, must take responsibility for this. We must help those who are suffering because of it".  ICN.

The Church leaders who have signed the letter represent a range of denominations and traditions in the UK, many of whom have been outspoken about the Bill over the past year. The letter has been sent to every MP currently elected to the House of Commons.  ICN.

The following statement is a response to the UK government's announcement that they plan to use offshoring facilities in Rwanda for the processing of asylum claims for those deemed to have entered the UK illegally.  

MPs heard that more Government support would be required in the coming months to avoid a disaster for the poorest households.  the i.
 

The Earth Day 2022 Theme is Invest In Our Planet. This is the moment to change it all — the business climate, the political climate, and how we take action on climate. Now is the time for the unstoppable courage to preserve and protect our health, our families, our livelihoods.  Earthday.org.

The Pontifical Academy for Sciences issues a declaration calling for an end to the war in Ukraine and urging nations to avoid the proliferation of nuclear weapons.  Vatican News.

Justice & Peace Scotland, in conjunction with Sancta Familia Media have produced a video featuring four of our Scottish Bishops with many young people and laity representing every diocese in Scotland to reaffirm our opposition to nuclear weapons and to mark the 40th anniversary the Scottish Bishops 1982 landmark statement on nuclear weapons.

“As we meditate this week on the passion of Christ may we pray for the people of Ukraine, Syria, Yemen and elsewhere who are enduring their passion.  Archbishop Nolan.  The Scottish Catholic.

More than 17,000 people flee their homes as landslides engulf villages, cutting off roads and power.  The storm came four months after super-typhoon Rai devastated swathes of the archipelago nation, killing more than 400 people and leaving hundreds of thousands homeless.  The Guardian.

Poverty is literally a matter of life and death for those on the margins, and the government has so far failed to step in.  The Guardian.

“May this war cease! May weapons fall silent. Stop sowing death and destruction.”  Vatican News.

The new report also reinforces how social justice, climate justice and inclusive public participation is essential to achieving the necessary transformations in energy and economic systems sufficiently quick and at the national and global scale.  CIDSE

Priti Patel’s plan to criminalise refugees crossing the English Channel is in danger after the House of Lords rejected the proposed law for a second time.  In a rare move, peers voted again to remove the offence of arriving in the UK – including British waters – without permission from the Nationality and Borders Bill.  The Independent. 

Despite the cost of living crisis, the government has pressed on with its manifesto-busting 1.25 percentage point rise in national insurance.  The Guardian.

The Working Group III report provides an updated global assessment of climate change mitigation progress and pledges, and examines the sources of global emissions. It explains developments in emission reduction and mitigation efforts, assessing the impact of national climate pledges in relation to long-term emissions goals. IPCC

The soil is heavily contaminated but, despite that, Russian troops were ordered to dig defensive earthworks, say Ukrainians who've now retaken the site after Russia's retreat.  Sky News.

The Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Claudio Gugerotti, on Thursday 31st March, visited people housed in former army barracks in Folkestone to show the Pope's solidarity with them as they look to a better future. "I came to listen, to hug, and to hear their voices and experiences," he said.  ICN

"The pope clearly says some forms of pollution are part of people's daily experience, and they're constantly being exposed to atmospheric pollution, pollution of the water, pollution of soil.  Earthbeat.

On Tuesday 22nd March, the Nationality and Borders Bill returned to the House of Commons. MPs were given the chance to vote on the amendments made to the bill in the House of Lords, where it was met with strong resistance.  JPIT blog.

Irrefutably, fossil fuels have become a weapon of mass destruction, both for war in Ukraine and in the climate crisis. Still, we must continue believing that we can overcome not only a war in Ukraine and conflicts in other regions of the world but also our dependency on oil, gas and coal, now and forever.  Earthbeat.

"We might be left without a radio station: God's best microphone is Christ, and Christ's best microphone is the Church, and the Church is all of you. Let each one of you, in your own job, in your own vocation - nun, married person, bishop, priest, high school or university student, day labourers wager earner, market woman - one in your own place … live the faith intensely and feel that in your surroundings you are a true microphone of God Our Lord. St Oscar Romero

 “In March 1982 the Scottish Bishops published a pastoral letter on Peace and Disarmament.  In this letter they challenged not just the use of nuclear weapons, something the church has always condemned, but they challenged also the very notion of deterrence and the morality of deterrence". ICN.

Scottish Faith Leaders, including Bishop Hugh Gilbert, President of the Scottish Catholic Bishops Conference, deeply concerned at the plight of the poor amidst the current cost of living crisis, have come together to write to the Chancellor ahead of his Spring Statement on Wednesday 23rd March. 

"Unfortunately, the violent aggression against Ukraine does not stop, a senseless massacre where every day there is a repetition of slaughter and atrocities. There is no justification for this!  ICN.

Ahead of the Government’s Spring Statement and energy security strategy, more than 200 UK church leaders have written to Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Chancellor Rishi Sunak calling on them to tackle the climate emergency, address the cost of living crisis and stop all new fossil fuel developments.  Operation Noah.

Archbishop Dermot Farrell focussed on "the plight of the enslaved and exploited women, children, and men who have come to our shores" in his St Patrick's Day homily in St Mary's Pro Cathedral, Dublin.  ICN.

Pope Francis speaks with Russian Orthodox Patriarch Kirill by videoconference on Wednesday, March 16.  Crux

Today we joined more than 100 organisations from across the UK in writing to Chancellor Rishi Sunak urging him to use his Spring Statement to scrap the unjust benefit cap. We must #ScrapTheCap to #MeetTheNeed.

The prospect of a nuclear war, “once unthinkable, is now back within the realm of possibility. The security and safety of nuclear facilities must also be preserved”. UN

As the Russian invasion sows pain and devastation in Ukraine and threatens to spread, other wars continue to claim victims in Syria, Yemen, Ethiopia, and elsewhere. Those who pay the highest price are most defenseless, especially children. Ordinary people want peace.  Vatican News.

On 28th February 2022, Archbishop Nolan, President of Justice & Peace Scotland joined 1000+ faith leaders who wrote to the Prime Minister to express their horror at the Nationality and Borders Bill and to urge him to rethink the legislation. You can read the full letter and see the list of signatories here

This is a short summary of some of the key points from the most recent IPCC report. These are some of the issues which are most significant and relevant to policy makers and advocacy organisations. Climate & Migration Coalition.

“Children without parental care are at a heightened risk of violence, abuse and exploitation. When these children are moved across borders, the risks are multiplied. The risk of trafficking also soars in emergencies,”  UN

Israeli authorities are currently withholding the bodies of at least nine Palestinian children killed by Israeli forces, according to documentation gathered by DCIP. Defence of Children Internationl Palestine. ICN.

Ahead of the Spring Statement on 23rd March, Poverty Alliance have launched a new e-action urging Chancellor Rishi Sunak to use his Spring Statement to scrap the unjust benefit cap.  Right now, people across the country are facing a cost-of-living crisis. For those trapped in poverty by the benefit cap, this crisis is even more acutely felt.

With real concern we have watched the situation in Ukraine unfold. As well as the direct casualties of war, the humanitarian crisis within the country is escalating, as many are trapped in bunkers and underground stations without food and access to fresh water. SFAR

"In the face of the shocking loss of life, bloodshed, displacement of people and destruction of property in Ukraine, we make these heartfelt appeals."  ICN

Please join us if you can at the South Gate at Faslane on Ash Wednesday, 2nd March 2022 at (3pm) as we  witness to the Peace of Christ at the home of Trident.

Veteren #Peace campaigner Bruce Kent delivers a letter to the Russian embassy in London urging the Russian Gov to de-escalate.  ICN.

Report says human actions are causing dangerous disruption, and window to secure a liveable future is closing.  Analysis: This report asks: what is at stake? In short, everything.  The Guardian.  

The Working Group II contribution to the IPCC Sixth Assessment Report assesses the impacts of climate change, looking at ecosystems, biodiversity, and human communities at global and regional levels. It also reviews vulnerabilities and the capacities and limits of the natural world and human societies to adapt to climate change.

Pope Francis made a heartfelt appeal for peace in Ukraine, saying that the threat of war had caused "great pain in my heart." 

Pope Francis has chosen “Building the Future with Migrants and Refugees,”as the theme for the 108th World Day of Migrants and Refugees, to be celebrated on 25 September.

The Vatican department for Integral Human Development will host a study seminar entitled, “Artisans of Peace for a World without Hunger,” Tuesday, February 22nd from 2pm to 4pm UK time.
 

As tensions grow in neighbouring Ukraine, Archbishop Stanisław Gądecki chair of the Polish Bishops Conference has issued an appeal for Catholics to offer hospitality to refugees fleeing the threatened war. ICN.

The Action Access pilot ran between 2019 and 2021 and supported 20 women seeking asylum in a community setting in Newcastle-upon-Tyne in the North East of England.  European Alternatives to Detention Network.

Buying Fairtrade is easy. There are over 6,000 Fairtrade products from coffee and tea to flowers and gold, so when you shop, look for the FAIRTRADE Mark. 
 

“Those items belong to our grandfathers and grandmothers – their spirit is still connected to them – but people see prestige and money in them. These are spiritual items that should not be displayed anywhere.” The National.

In a joint statement, the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM) and Justice and Peace Europe call on the European Union (EU), the African Union (AU) and their member states to strengthen their commitment to equitable global vaccine supply and global health issues ahead of the joint AU-EU Summit.

6 months after the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan, we need action to ensure Afghan refugees are protected. People fleeing the Taliban were promised a #AWarmWelcome; now they face punishment under the #AntiRefugeeBill. Asylum Matters.  Watch, share & write to your MP!

Laudato Si’ calls us toward sustainability in the spirit of integral ecology. With profound care for each other, our Creator, and all creation, we are building a better future together. 

Recycling is not the answer as more toxic chemicals are added to the old plastic to make more plastic. It is not the solution. Phasing out plastic is the only option. Replacing it with alternative safe materials like stainless steel glass, beeswax-coated wrapping and above all, platinum silicone, is the solution.  Fr Shay Cullen ICN.  Image: Fiqri Aziz Octavian on Unsplash.

This is a remarkable short film by Andy Burgess about the hidden lives of refugees in Calais and the dangers they’ll face from the UK government’s anti refugee bill.  In the film you meet some of the refugees he met in Calais.

The benefit cap, which came into effect in April 2013, is a limit on the total amount of means-tested benefit payments an individual or family can receive. As of May 2021, 190,000 households are affected by the cap, receiving on average £55 per week less in support than they would if the cap was not in place.  Poverty Alliance.

Pope Francis urges world leaders to seek a peaceful solution to the situation in and around Ukraine, as Western nations warn Russia could invade its neighbor at any time. Vatican News.

27 February is Poverty Action Sunday. Church Action on Poverty is encouraging Christian Communities to be attentive to the voices of poverty. With increasing food costs, a huge rise in energy prices on its way and tax rises, the need to be attentive to these voices has never been greater.  ICN.

Air pollution from transport is responsible for thousands of premature deaths in Scotland every year, and causes serious heart and lung issues.  Friends of the earth Scotland.

The pope's words echoed remarks he made last July on the occasion of "Sea Sunday," an annual day dedicated to "all those who rely on the sea for their work and livelihood."  "Take care of the health of the sea: no plastic in the sea!" Earthbeat.  image:Unsplash/Naja Bertolt Jensen)

Eight million people are now facing starvation in Afghanistan. A million children could die. The Taliban takeover and sanctions imposed by the west have contributed to economic collapse. There is food in the markets, but families are being driven to the edge because they simply don’t have the money to buy it.  Image BBC Panorama

On 8th February we encourage you to say Pope Francis' prayer for an end to human trafficking, modern slavery and for its victims

8th February is International Day of Prayer and Awareness Against Human Trafficking and we are taking this opportunity to share again our campaign video on Human Trafficking.  

St Josephine represents "so many girls" who the Pope said we see on the street: they are not free from this deep wound, inflicted by the shameful pursuit of economic interests without any respect for the human person.  Vatican News.  #EndHumanTrafficking 

"As I overcome my initial shock at being appointed Archbishop my thoughts now turn to the challenges that lies ahead....from now on I belong to Glasgow. And I assure the people of Glasgow of my commitment and dedication to them.  ICN.

Pope Francis has named justice and peace champion Bishop William Nolan to lead the Archdiocese of Glasgow.  The Tablet.

The hike means that 22 million households which pay by direct debit will face an average of bill of £1,971 a year for their gas and electricity. Homes using a pre-pay meter, which are typically more vulnerable, will on average face a steeper hike of £708 and an annual bill of £2,017.  The Guardian. 

Estemeed guests discuss how their faiths act as templates to free them from the historical social conditioning.  Join this discussion on zoom on Friday 4th February at 6pm.

A recent court of appeal ruling has shown that refugees coming to the UK on small boats are not arriving “illegally” if they intend to arrive at a port and claim asylum – which almost all of them do.  Care4Calais  

The people in the camp don't have anything left. They escaped their houses and didn't take anything. Most of them ran at night, because the fighting suddenly started in their villages.  Humanitarian, Image (Nabil Alawzari/TNH)

"We know that peace is so much more than an end to war and conflict. Peace from poverty; peace from hunger; peace for those living on the streets or in camps for migrants; peace of mind and heart for those denied the truth, closure and justice both here and around the world; this is the kind of deep peace we should all strive for today. It is the peace of Christ".  ICN.

One in three buy now, pay later users have missed a payment or made a late one, according to a report published last year by the welfare charity Citizens Advice. The report found consumers using the credit products had also been charged £39m in late fees over one year. The Guardian.

This year, the rabbis decided to go ahead with planting trees - and instead give violence a rest. Instead of dropping their tree-planting tools, they decided to adopt the motto "drop the violence."  ICN  image:  Rabbis for Human Rights.

Join us for reflections & prayers from Iona Abbey to mark Holocaust Memorial Day. There will be music from island musicians and contributions from people from different religious traditions. We’ll be remembering people who were murdered for who they were and will be standing firmly against prejudice and hatred today.  Iona Community.

The Mass was the initiative of Fr David Stewart SJ, supported by the Jesuits in Scotland, Justice and Peace Scotland and the archdiocese.  The Tablet.

Pope Francis at his Jan. 23 Sunday Angelus said he is deeply concerned by growing tensions between Russia and Ukraine and called for a day of prayer for peace Jan. 26

One year on from the day the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons was ratified on 22 January 2021 at the UN in New York, Justice and Peace Scotland joined our fellow anti-nuclear campaigners from Scottish CND, Pax Christi Scotland, Glasgow Catholic Worker and the Faslane Peace Camp to hold a vigil at the 'home of Trident' at Faslane on the Clyde.  ICN

If you think something doesn't look right, then it probably isn't. By reporting it to one of these organisations, you may be saving someone’s life.  Migrant Help.

The BBC has found that children as young as 10 are being groomed in Romania, to be trafficked to the UK.  BBC.

“Children seeking safety arriving alone in the UK are bewildered and frightened. They have been subjected to processes with neither safeguards nor oversight, relying on little more than luck to . No child should have been faced with disbelief and such appalling practice.” The Guardian.

Follow this livestream on Saturday 22nd January 2022 at 6.30pm as Rutilio Grande, Manuel Solorzano and Nelson Rutilio Lemus are beatified.

So far in January (2022), there were 839 airstrikes by the Saudi-led coalition, compared with 1,074 for the whole of December,” UN News.

The government has suffered a series of defeats in the House of Lords over its plans to clamp down on disruptive and noisy protesters.  BBC.

Rutilio Grande, S.J., and his two traveling companions, 15-year-old Nelson Rutilio Lemus and 72-year-old Manuel Solórzano, had been driving to the small town of El Paisnal in El Salvador when they were gunned down on the road on March 12, 1977, in Aguilares, El Salvador. The Vatican announced on Feb. 22, 2021, that it would recognize the three as martyrs.  America.

The Enable Scotland charity has launched a #MyOwnFrontDoor campaign to give people with learning disabilities the right to a home they choose and to live in the community of their choice.  Glasgow Live.

Young people 13-18 years are asked to consider: Who in the world today is doing something about inequality, injustice, exclusion and environmental degradation? What can they teach us? How can we draw on our own faith and personal experience to be changemakers?

"It's the idea that if we do face the reality, even if we've made a big mess so far, but if we face it with courage and with realism, it can be turned around with God's help," said Czerny. "And that's good news." Earthbeat.

While thousands were airlifted out of Afghanistan to safety in the UK when the Taliban took over, many others were forced to make the same hazardous journey across land and sea as those fleeing persecution in countries such as Sudan, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Syria, Yemen and Somalia.  The Guardian.

“No matter how high barriers – physical and legislative – may be, desperate people will seek ways to reach safety”. “Managing borders, sharing responsibility and respecting human rights are compatible”. UN News.

Europe lived through its warmest summer, and temperature records in western US and Canada were broken by several degrees. Extreme wildfires in July and August burnt almost entire towns to the ground and killed hundreds.  BBC.

Watch here, Bishop Nolan's video message on Justice & Peace Sunday, Day of Prayer For Peace Sunday 2nd January 2022.

My Dear Brothers & Sisters... have a look at this video version of Bishop Nolan's written letter for Day of Prayer For Peace 2022.

Letter to the Catholics of Scotland on 'Day Of Prayer For Peace', 2nd January 2022 from Bishop Nolan, President of Justice & Peace Scotland.  Read the full text here.

Dialogue between generations, education and work:  tools for building lasting peace.

The principle that the spiritual and cultural character of Jerusalem's distinct and historic quarters should be protected is already recognised in Israeli law with respect to the Jewish Quarter. Yet radical groups continue to acquire strategic property in the Christian Quarter, with the aim of diminishing the Christian presence,

Inspectors and monitors say suicidal women and people with serious injuries not adequately supported.  The Guardian.

The Columbans are holding a Candlelit Advent Service for Refugees on Thursday 16th December 20:00 – 21:00, in which we will remember all those who have lost their lives whilst seeking a better life. We will remember those who live in fear of violence and oppression, those journeying to safety and those waiting to hear news from those they love.

Bishop Hugh Gilbert, President of the Bishops’ Conference of Scotland, has encouraged Catholics to respond to the consultation and to “reject" the proposal. Bishop Gilbert added that the proposal was “a serious threat to the elderly, the disabled, and the vulnerable” and urged people to "send the message that every human life has value."  The Consulation closes on 22nd December 2021.

Every 3 months the National Commission of Justice & Peace Scotland meet and each diocese gives an update on their activities.  The December 2021 update is now available here.

On Thursday 16th December 7-8pm Join the Faith Plans team for an evening of reflection on what next for climate action post-COP26. We will hear how the faiths are major stakeholders in the planet, and how faiths around the world are creating Faith Plans designed to realign their assets – investments, land, building, educational and medical institutes and their lifestyles – as part of the Faith Plans programme.