Overview of the Event
On September 9–10, 2024, the Central Office of CONAPI hosted an impactful workshop focused on VIVAT International and the commitment to Justice, Peace, and the Integrity of Creation (JPIC). The event drew 30 participants, encompassing both religious and lay attendees. Under the guidance of Sr. Greta Fernandes, SSpS, the Executive Secretary of VIVAT International, the workshop promoted deep engagement and reinforced dedication to social justice principles.
Attendees and Purpose
The workshop welcomed members from various religious congregations, civil society organizations, and committed laypersons. It aimed to foster an in-depth understanding of VIVAT International—a religious NGO dedicated to advocating for human rights and social justice worldwide. Participants explored how VIVAT’s work influences policy development and supports collaborative efforts to uphold JPIC values.
Workshop Highlights
Sr. Greta Fernandes, who traveled from Rome for the occasion, led the workshop’s comprehensive program. Through presentations, she provided insights into VIVAT International’s mission and current initiatives, highlighting the organization’s advocacy for human rights, peacebuilding, and social justice.
Video conferences featured contributions from VIVAT representatives in various countries, enriching the workshop by sharing global experiences and progress at the national level. These sessions underscored how VIVAT’s work impacts communities and offered participants a vision of their potential roles in contributing to these efforts.
Key Interactive Sessions
Three interactive sessions showcased insights from Sister Clarice Boff, MSCS (Spain), Father John Kennedy, SVD (Mexico), and Sister Petronella Boonen, SSpS (Brazil). Their discussions emphasized interconnectedness and synodality within VIVAT congregations, demonstrating collaborative efforts to advocate for marginalized communities and uphold human rights.
Emphasis on Daily Commitment to JPIC
Sr. Greta stressed that embodying JPIC principles in everyday life is vital to being an effective agent of change. Through group activities, participants analyzed pressing socio-environmental challenges, including:
- Land access inequalities.
- Corruption and non-enforcement of environmental laws.
- Forced displacement of Indigenous and rural communities.
These discussions promoted practical awareness and strategizing to address these significant issues.
Reinforcement of Community and Synodal Efforts
The workshop fostered an environment of mutual learning and collaboration among religious and lay participants. This strengthened community bonds and underscored the value of synodal processes in achieving common goals related to justice, peace, and environmental stewardship.
Sr. Greta was lauded for her dedication and expertise, which inspired participants to integrate the workshop’s lessons within their communities and continue their advocacy for JPIC.
Collective Call to Action
The workshop concluded with a statement drawing attention to the escalating environmental crisis, particularly the devastating fires affecting the region. Criticism was directed at the insufficient governmental response and its profound social consequences. The participants reiterated their commitment to defending nature and raising community awareness about the urgency of environmental care.
Recommendations from the Workshop
Participants collectively put forward several recommendations, emphasizing:
- Educational Initiatives: Establishing ongoing learning opportunities on the topics discussed.
- Collaborative Networks: Building inter-congregational collaboration to enhance coordinated efforts.
- Local Initiatives: Promoting activities that reflect JPIC principles at a community level.
- Raising Awareness: Advocating for a greater understanding of the socio-environmental crisis and tangible actions for environmental stewardship.
- Expansion Planning: Consulting with VIVAT International’s member congregation leaders on the formation of a branch or national group in Paraguay.
Conclusion
The workshop on VIVAT International and JPIC left participants motivated to act as voices for justice and environmental care. It reinforced the need for ongoing collaboration and emphasized the collective responsibility to safeguard the planet and champion social equity.
