AS PEOPLE OF FAITH in an election year, how are we called to work towards honest dialogue and respectful listening in political and social engagement? How do we seek good governance in all seats of power; local, national, and global? What is our response when we are told via our news channels that the forthcoming election will be full of ‘dirty tricks and muckraking’? How should we respond to such a depressing and alarming prediction? Is this the level of public discourse that we must accept?
These are the questions that will be considered at the National Justice and Peace Network of England and Wales Annual Conference, which will take place in Swanwick, Derbyshire on 19-21 July. The theme for the weekend is ‘Just Politics’ and the need for truth and integrity in public life. The conference attracts Justice and Peace representatives from the Catholic dioceses of England and Wales, and representatives of various agencies and organisations with a focus on social justice.
Attendees will hear from Keynote speakers, take part in workshops, find resources and information in the ‘Just Fair’, and listen to the voices of young adults as they share their hopes and concerns for the future of our world.
Speakers:
Sir John Battle will chair the conference, bringing his vast knowledge and experience of Catholic Social Teaching in action, both in the political sphere and in community engagement.
Dr Guli Francis-Dehqani, Anglican Bishop of Chelmsford, will explore some of the dynamics of public discourse, the implications for individuals and society, some possible solutions and opportunities for Christians and the Church to play a positive role.
Molly Scott Cato, Former Green MEP and currently Finance and Economy Spokesperson for the Green Party, will speak about how untruth is undermining democracy.
Steve Whiting, former manager of the Quaker Turning the Tide Programme, will start to pull together what we have learned from speakers and workshops and help us identify common themes.
Colette Joyce of Westminster Justice and Peace Commission will facilitate the session with young people speaking about their concerns, what action they can take and what they look for from others.
Fr Chris Hughes and Sara Bryson will facilitate the final part of the conference, sharing how they have used community organising in campaigns with Tyne and Wear Citizens. They will focus on how participants can accept the challenges raised during the weekend, and how to move forward in action for peace and social justice.
* More information and booking details here.
* Source: National Justice and Peace Network