One of the things
that I have noticed is that there tends to be a lot of division among people as
to what special interest groups should get the most attention. Everybody seems
to think that their issue is the most important. This can sometimes lead to conflicts
between groups and people.
Something that is
important is recognizing the gifts that each individual holds and how these
skills can be used in different capacities. Everybody has their own passions
and this is necessary This contributes to the idea of the seamless garment,
that all life issues are of importance and all must be addressed. Cardinal
Joseph Bernandin said:
“A consistent ethic does not say everyone in the
Church must do all things, but it does say that as individuals and groups
pursue one issue, whether
it is opposing abortion or capital punishment, the way we oppose one threat should be related to
support for a systemic vision of life. It
is not necessary or possible for every person to engage in
each issue, but it is both possible and necessary for the Church as a whole to
cultivate a conscious explicit connection among the several issues. And it is
very necessary for preserving a systemic vision that individuals and groups who
seek to witness to life at one point of the spectrum of life not be seen as
insensitive to or even opposed to other moral claims on the overall spectrum of
life.”
Thus it is necessary
to live out the Gospel of Life by valuing all people’s contribution to this
seamless garment.
Event Idea
Collaborate with
different groups on your campus to have a Mass or prayer service focusing on
human dignity. This brings people together based on what they have in common
instead of differences of opinion. Because who can argue against promoting
human dignity?
Ways to Get Groups Involved
- Invite each group to submit their own prayer intention based on the focus or mission of their club.
- Invite members of each group to be part of the choir or to play instruments for the music of the service. Make sure you have someone to lead the choir who is in charge of music and arrangement.
- Have a reception after the event. We had drinks, cannolis, and fruit. This provides a time for the members of the different groups to get to know each other in a casual setting
Logistics
- Advertise, advertise, advertise. Ask the groups involved to send out emails to their clubs, print posters, advertise through campus channels.
- Find a presider for the service and pick the readings.
- Reserve a space with enough room for the expected attendants
- Order the food for the reception
Above all, remember
this event is about recognizing the value
in each person, honoring each of our strengths, and banding together to pray
for change in our world.
-written by Erin Stoyell-Mulholland
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