Peace and Social Justice Ministry

What we Do
The Peace & Social Justice Ministry at St. Teresa of Avila provides opportunities for parishioners to learn about the Church’s Social Teachings and to take action on social justice issues.

Called to Witness in El Salvador
This year, the Archdiocesan office of Peace and Social Justice and Catholic Relief Services invited Fr. Frank to organize a group of parishioners to travel to El Salvador, with the hopes of developing relationships with communities in need. Fr. Frank and six parishioners will travel in May to meet people, develop relationships and learn more about the work of Catholic Relief Services in the region.

Sr. Sandra’s Ministry to Oaxacan Immigrants
Click here to read the Catholic Extension Featured Article
In 2014, St. Teresa of Avila sponsored Fr. Frank on a 500-mile journey across Spain and raised $30,000 to support the ministry of Sr. Sandra Ann Silva. Sr. Sandra provides help to a poor and isolated community of Mexican immigrants – Oaxacan’s – working as strawberry pickers in Watsonville, CA.

Haiti Team
Download the Haiti Team Flyer
We are proud to support the social outreach programs of Zanmi Lasanté-Paris. Over the past several years, parishioners of St. Teresa of Avila have participated multiple initiatives including the building of a new chapel in Ste. Rose de Lima Chapel in Palmary, Haiti and the 20,000 Meals for Haiti campaign. In 2012, Fr. Frank walked 500 miles across Spain and raised more than $20,000 to help provide clean and accessible water in Haiti. If you are interested in learning more about Zanmi Paris, contact Christine Murray at zanmiparis@mac.com.

How to get Involved
We are currently looking for participants with a passion for justice to lead and participate in this ministry. Speak to Fr. Frank or contact Rebecca O’Brien at robrien@stteresaparish.org or 773-528-6650. Click here to learn more about the Church’s social teaching from the Chicago Office for Peace & Social Justice.

Links:
http://www.catholicextension.org/news-media/extension-magazine/extension-magazine-issue-archive/fall-2014/featured-article-i 
http://www.chicagopeaceandjustice.org/catholic-social-teaching/