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.  

 “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 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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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.  

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.

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.

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.   

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.

“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.

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

“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.

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.

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.  

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

“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.

"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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

"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. 

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.

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.

The “St Margaret’s Declaration” was signed at Dunfermline Abbey in Fife by Rt Rev Dr Iain Greenshields, Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland and Archbishop Leo Cushley, Catholic Archbishop of St Andrews & Edinburgh.

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.

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. 

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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: 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.’

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

“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.

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.

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.

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.

food for thought on Chernobyl Disaster Remembrance Day.  ICN.

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.

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

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.

"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.

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

"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.

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

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 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.

"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.

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.

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

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.

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,

“"We are living days of great apprehension as we await what happens. My appeal to the listeners of Vatican Radio is to pray...pray, pray, pray for Afghanistan! Thank you."”  Vatican News.

A syndicate of port workers in the Italian city of Livorno in Tuscany on Friday protested a weapons and explosives shipment after discovering it was destined for the Israeli port of Ashdod.  The New Arab. 

Statement of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem concerning the recent violence in Jerusalem.

40+ organisations that have signed a letter to NatWest Group CEO Alison Rose to update the group's defence sector policy to reflect that nuclear weapons are now prohibited under international law. The call comes following widespread condemnation of the UK government's decision to increase the cap on the nuclear weapons in its stockpile by up to 40%.  ICN

Let us remember that as we celebrate Easter Sunday, many people - especially those in Tigray - remain at the heart of the Passion. They struggle to reach Easter Sunday."  ICN.

“blessing to see Dorothy honored as her journey progresses towards canonization and that a ferry bearing her name will transport workers, to whose dignity she dedicated the Catholic Worker Movement.”

Join an online Vigil for Syria, marking ten years of the Syrian conflict, as a public expression of solidarity with the Syrian people and Syrian refugees here in Scotland and in other countries. You are also invited to light and candle and post a picture to social media with the hashtag  #ScotlandWithSyria 

In response to the recent military coup, Cardinal Charles Bo will join the Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW) annual day of prayer.  Register to join and to pray for Myanmar/Burma at this critical time.

Over the course of three days, the pope traveled across the country as no foreign head of state has done for years. He went to several different towns and cities in full view of all.  La Croix International.  Image AFP.

Two young people were shot dead and seven were injured in the grounds of a Catholic Cathedral in Myanmar on Monday. ICN.

For many years Pax Christi has marked this day by acknowledging the role that women play in peacemaking around the world. More recently, Pax Christi has distributed postcards for members to send to women on 8 March, thanking them for their contribution to building peace and justice.  ICN.

The UK's biggest arms company, BAE Systems, has made £15 billion in revenue from services and sales to Saudi Arabia since 2015.  This is a time to work for peace, not profit.  ICN.

Violence. Poverty. Starvation. This is the dire reality for millions of Yemenis suffering through the world’s largest humanitarian crisis. More than 20 million people need humanitarian assistance and at least 5 million are just one step away from famine. But it’s women who have had to endure the most.  UNHCR.

Statement of the Executive Committee of Justice & Peace Europe on the situation in Myanmar.
 

Organisations from across the world are coming together to call an international day of action against the Saudi-led War on Yemen on January 25th 2021.

Ahead of the International Day of Action for Yemen (Monday 25th January) Justice and Peace Scotland invites you to hear more about the devastating links between arms manufactures here and the devastating conflict in Yemen on Sunday 24 January 2021 at 4.30pm. ICN.

Sadly, it is still true that the "colour of our skin" often matters more in our society than the "content of our character," as Rev Martin Luther King, Jr, said a half-century ago.  ICN.

From “emaciated” refugees to crops burned on the brink of harvest, starvation threatens the survivors of more than two months of fighting in Ethiopia’s Tigray region. CFRUX. Picture: Catholic Relief Services.

"The entry into force of the ban treaty signals a massive change globally. Recognising that nuclear weapons are one of the greatest threats to humanity - the countries of the United Nations have outlawed them. Countries which everyday threaten to launch nuclear weapons are outside the norm of civilized society.  ICN.
 

At the start of this new year, the Holy Father proposes a new challenge to us: to be more fraternal. The video shows Jewish, Muslim and Christian persons praying in their own traditions. Then they are shown working together distributing food at a welfare project. ICN.

Pope Francis invited all Ethiopians "to prayer and to the fraternal respect for dialogue and the peaceful resolution of discord."

Commissioned by Interfaith Scotland and created by artist Iman Tajik, Postcards for Solidarity explores facets of shared humanity across the globe in the face of the 2020 Coronavirus pandemic. Responding to the theme of connecting, participants responded to the open call by creating a self-portrait of their hand and a short text about life in lockdown.

History was made on Saturday when a treaty making nuclear weapons illegal was finally ratified at the Unites Nations. The UN Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW) opened for signature three years ago. The treaty needed 50 countries to ratify it before it before it could come into force. On Saturday night that milestone was reached. ICN.

Pope Francis is presenting the Church’s “consistent message” and is inviting individuals and nations to “slow down and to listen and to engage with our brothers and sisters,” CRUX.

Each year the International Day of Peace is observed around the world on 21 September. The UN General Assembly has declared this as a day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, through observing 24 hours of non-violence and cease-fire.

A Statement by the Patriarchs and Heads of the Holy Land Churches on
Israeli Unilateral Annexation Plans
(May 7, 2020)

Pope Francis joins the UN Secretary General, Antonio Guterres in calling for a global ceasefire as the world faces the onslaught of the Covid-19 pandemic.  Vatican News.

In an appeal issued on Monday, UN Secretary-General António Guterres urged warring parties across the world to lay down their weapons in support of the bigger battle against  COVID-19: the common enemy that is now threatening all of humankind.   

Martin Maier SJ, who has a longstanding connection with El Salvador, traces Romero’s personal transformation up to the moment of his martyr’s death in the middle of a sermon.

Humanitarians caring for displaced Syrians in and outside their country are calling for an end to Syria’s brutal civil war as it enters its 10th year. The magnitude of displacement, death and destruction in Syria marks one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises right now.  CRUX.

Poet and priest who mixed religion and politics in his commitment to social justice in Nicaragua.  Guardian.

St Peter's Church, Partick in Glasgow will host this years Racial Justice Service on 9th February at 4pm.  Professor Reddie, Director of the Oxford Centre for Religion and Culture is the main speaker.

Monday 27th January 2020 marks the 75th anniversary of the Liberation of Auschwitz. The Council of European Bishops' Conferences and the Commission of the Bishops' Conferences of the European Union have issued the following statement.

Marian Pallister Vice Chair of Justice and Peace Scotland took part in a BBC Radio Scotland interview on Sunday 19th January.  The interview looks at the film ‘A Hidden Life’, which is based on the story of Franz Jägerstätter.   American peace activist Jim Forest also takes part in the programme.  Listen here from 1:17:33 onwards.

The Holy Land Coordination of Bishops have released this statement following their visit to Christians in the Holy Land this year.

There are many reasons to speak out against the killing of General Qassem Soleimani, a powerful leader in Iran who was killed in an airstrike by U.S. forces on January 3, 2020.

Pope Francis’ Message for the 53rd World Day of Peace describes peace as a journey of hope to be undertaken in a spirit of dialogue, reconciliation and ecological conversion.  Vatican News.

Seventy-four years ago, on the 6th August 1945 the United States, with the consent of the United Kingdom, dropped an atomic bomb on the Japanese city of Hiroshima, killing up to 80,000 people with over 70,000 people injured and dying from radiation sickness in the following weeks and months. The city was destroyed and over 100,000 people died from the bomb named "Little Boy".

Three days later, the US dropped "Fat Man" atomic bomb on Nagasaki in Southern Japan, killing nearly 100,000 people - the majority of whom were civilians. 

For details of commemorative events across Scotland, please see the Scottish CND website.

Today, Wednesday 20th June, the Court of Appeal has ruled UK arms sales to Saudi Arabia for use in Yemen to be UNLAWFUL.  Campaign Against Arms Trade (CAAT).

Speak Up is a young person’s guide to intervening in a hate crime situation.
This resource is intended to help young people intervene in situations where someone is the target of hate behaviour. It introduces our approach to being an Active Bystander.

It is aimed at 11-16 year olds but could be used as a training tool for peer educators and youth workers.

Have a look here at our latest newsletter filled with news and upcoming events.  

In their joint letter to the foreign secretary, Jeremy Hunt, the opposition leaders, say it is shameful the UK government has not used all means at its disposal to put pressure on Saudi Arabia “to abide by basic human rights laws”.

'Being a refugee is not a choice, it's not a decision, it's not a life goal. These people are fleeing their homes because of war, because of persecution': Tareq Hadhad, CEO of Peace by Chocolate.  National Post.

Bishop Nolan, President of Justice and Peace Scotland has recently returned from the Holy Land with the Holy Land Coordination which aims to support Christians in the area.  Read their report on the visit here.

Pope Francis highlighted "the humanitarian crisis in Yemen", where "the population is exhausted by the long conflict and many children suffer from hunger, but it is not possible to access food stores."  Independent Catholic News.

Bishops of the Holy Land Coordination, including Bishop Nolan - President of Justice and Peace Scotland, will be making their annual visit in support of Christians in Israel and Palestine next week. This year, they will be focusing on the theme: "Christians in Israel; challenges and opportunities."  Report in ICN 
 

Pope Francis has published his message for the 52nd World Day of Peace which takes place on 1st January 2019.  The theme of this years message is: Good politics is at the service of peace. /Read the letter here. 

Interfaith Glasgow and St Mungo Museum of Religious Life and Art warmly invite you to their next Faith to Faith dialogue event where we will hear from the Scottish Interfaith Group on Domestic Abuse and see their new short film "Walking Through Domestic Abuse".

Jim Forest, activist, author and International Secretary of the Orthodox Peace Fellowship will be on a speaking tour in Edinburgh, Glasgow and London in between 8 - 13 December.  ICN report.

The latest Connect & Encourage is now available to download.

The First Pax Christi Scotland Event will take place from 23rd-25th November 2018 at Conforti Institute in Coatbridge.  Everyone is invited to register for this free event.  Day places are available.  Contact: anna@confortiinstitute.org 

Lord Jesus Christ, who are called the Prince of Peace, who are yourself our peace and reconciliation, who so often said, “Peace to you,” grant us peace. Make all men and women witnesses of truth, justice, and love. Banish from their hearts whatever might endanger peace. Enlighten our rulers that they may guarantee and defend the great gift of peace. May all peoples of the earth becomes as brothers and sisters. May longed-for peace blossom forth and reign always over us all. St John XXIII.

On September 26, Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States and Head of the Delegation of the Holy See to the 73rd Session of the United Nations General Assembly, gave an intervention during the High-Level Plenary Meeting to commemorate and promote The International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons.

Justice and Peace Scotland took part in the Nae Nukes Anywhere Rally at Faslane on Saturday 22nd September.  The National newspaper was present at the rally and spoke to some of the protesters including Danny our Social Justice Co-ordinator. Read their comments here.

Auxiliary Bishop, Silvio Jose Baez of Managua, Nicaragua speaks out about the violence the people of Nicaragua are being subjected to at the hands of President Ortega's regime.

Explore the diverse and complex roles that religions play in both promoting and mitigating violence.

Justice and Peace Scotland took part in the demonstration against the UDT Arms Fair which began at the Scottish Exhibition and Conference Centre in Glasgow on Tuesday 26th June.  Read our statement here.

The Guardian have reported how Campaign Against The Arms Trade (CAAT) have uncovered information which shows that UK government licences for ‘less sensitive goods’ are being used to hide the scale of bomb sales to Saudi, bombs that go on to hit civilian targets in Yemen.

Bishop Nolan, along with other Christian leaders, was present at the annual Pentecost Vigil, organised by Scottish Christians Against Nuclear Arms (SCANA) at Faslane on Saturday 26th May. Read what he had to say about the Catholic position on nuclear weapons.

Bishop William Nolan, Bishop of Galloway and President of the Justice and Peace Commission of the Bishops Conference of Scotland, will tomorrow (Saturday 26 May) at 12 noon join other Church leaders and campaigners in calling for the Secretary of State to sign and ratify the Treaty for the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons.

A fully funded 3 day youth training programme on all aspects of campaigning work, focusing on the nuclear disarmament movement. Learn all you need to know about nuclear weapons, communication tactics, lobbying activities, grassroots empowerment, legislative change, online engagement, fundraising tools and much more. Applicants should be between 18 and 30 years old and should reside in Scotland.

Details: http://www.peaceeducationscotland.org/peace-academy/

Two Court of Appeal judges, Lord Justice Irwin and Lord Justice Flaux have granted permission for Campaign Against Arms Trade (CAAT) to appeal against a High Court judgment which allows the UK Government to continue to export arms to Saudi Arabia for use in Yemen. The appeal will be heard by the Court of Appeal in the months ahead. As reported in ICN.

BBC news reports how, Peace Provocateurs, an organisation set up to support child soldiers following the end of Indonesia's worst religious conflict, is working to maintian the fragile peace there and to bring comfort to the former child soldiers involved in the conflict.  

Vatican correspondent, Gerard O'Connell, reports on Pope Francis's response to the bombing of Syria by America, France and the UK in America - The Jesuit Review publication.

A Statement Issued by the Patriarchates of Antioch and all the East for the Greek Orthodox, Syrian Orthodox, and Greek-Melkite Catholics

Damascus, 14 April 2018

God is with us; Understand all ye nations and submit yourselves!

Pax Christi have prepared a liturgy for Ash Wednesday services

A day of prayer, study & organising.

Saturday 3rd March 2018