Reflecting on the Catholic Church’s Jubilee theme of hope, we are reminded of our profound responsibility to address poverty, which is a ‘scandal’ in our world today.
As an educator, I am aware of how we play a crucial role in instilling the right attitude towards wealth in our pupils. We must teach them that wealth is not merely for personal gain but a tool to uplift others and combat poverty and injustice.
By fostering a sense of empathy and generosity, we can guide our students to use their resources wisely and compassionately.
We are merely ‘tenants’ in this world, entrusted with the care of creation and each other. The parable of the Good Samaritan teaches us to be active stewards, responding to the needs of others with compassion and action.
Simple, intentional actions can lead to significant change, embodying a prophetic vision of hope and justice.
Living and working in Africa before becoming a teacher opened my eyes to a world I had been ignorant of. Despite my solid Catholic upbringing and education, including a Masters in Theology, it was only through travel and spending a year living in Africa that I truly grasped the essence of my theological studies.
Immersing myself in diverse cultures, I learned invaluable lessons from people who, despite having very little, lived life with immense faith and hope. Witnessing the depths of extreme poverty with the unbearable pain of losing children to hunger and disease on a daily basis and yet seeing the pure joy and heartfelt celebration at Mass, was profoundly moving and deeply inspiring.
My initial goal of establishing a school in the depths of the equatorial rainforest of Ghana evolved into founding a charity dedicated to supporting children’s education; helping them transition from child labour to the classroom, where they rightfully belong.
We do not need to understand the languages or politics of the world to make a difference. By acknowledging our shared humanity and working together, we can embark on a journey of hope, striving for a more peaceful and just world.
Let us embrace this mission with joy and determination, knowing that every small act of kindness contributes to a brighter future.
Today, as a teacher in a Jesuit school, I am inspired by the work of Jesuit Missions who collaborates with communities worldwide to eliminate poverty and seek justice.
In South Sudan, they strive to build schools and train women in sustainable farming amidst extreme poverty. In Myanmar, they continue to focus on education despite the military coup, economic collapse, and restricted internet access, which forces many students to abandon their studies.
Their unwavering commitment to advancing education despite these challenging conditions provides hope to many and serves as an example of how we should feel compelled to put our faith into action.
Echoing Pope Francis, this Jubilee year reminds us that the earth’s resources are to be shared, and we should not be ignoring the cries from our ‘brother and sisters’; we should embrace this challenge and play our part in creating a more just world.
Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other. And we urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone. Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else. Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
Thessalonians 5: 12- 18
In his letter to the Thessalonians, St Paul reminds us that we are one community supporting each other, striving to do that which is good.
St Ignatius tells us that love is shown more in deeds than in words. Take a few moments to reflect on the work of Jesuit Missions’ partners around the world.
How do they strive for that which is good, bringing hope to those members of the community who are marginalised. Take a moment to rejoice in and give thanks for their work. Pray for their ongoing endeavours in this Jubilee year.