GLOBAL CHALLENGES, FRANCE-BELGIUM

FRANCE-BELGIUM PROVINCE HOSTS A DEBATE WITH SISTER BARBARA ON GLOBAL CHALLENGES

Encouraged by the Congregation's International Commission for Justice, Peace and the Integrity of Creation, we, the Sisters of St. Joseph of the France-Belgium Province, organized an event that enabled us to broaden our co-responsibility for the planet and connect with what's happening in the world.

On April 13, we organized and held an important meeting: a conference-debate with Sister Barbara Bózak, our sister at the NGO working with the UN. Fifty-nine people took part - us sisters, but also members of the John XXIII parish community, including the parish priest, and members of various social and ecclesial organizations whose actions focus on ecological challenges, human rights and the fight against poverty and hunger in the world, such as Laudato Si, ACO (Action Catholique), CCFD (Comité Catholique de Lutte contre la Pauvreté et la Faim dans le Monde).

Before telling us about the orientations and objectives of COP 30, Sister Barbara gave a quick presentation of the UN, its organization and how to get involved.

Here are some of the objectives of the 30th conference:

* To discuss the current climate situation, with a view to seeking solutions to combat it, reviewing plans and targets, and establishing new commitments.

“COP 30 will take place in Brazil, in the city of Belém, capital of Pará. This event is very important both for the country and for international climate discussions.”

It's up to each and every one of us to make our small contribution to the care and protection of our Earth/Planet.

Participants were amazed by the level and scope of the congregation's commitment.

At the end of the debate, many people thanked the congregation for organizing such an event and wished to stay in touch with the congregation.

Many thanks to Sr. Barbara for her availability

 and for accepting our invitation.

 Srs. Sujata and Dominga

Nicole (Nickie) Levesque

I know Barbara. As a former CSJ I met her when I was a student of Barbara --- St. Paul's University in Ottawa. A wonderful Professor and Scripture scholar for 17 years. The Chambery Congregation is an incredible International group of the CSJ's around the world.