There are many issues that can be addressed under any one of these three areas. We can all feel overwhelmed at times by the sheer number of needs in our world and end up being paralyzed into non-action. In an effort to help us better focus our Franciscan voice, witness, action and energy, FI-NA will concentrate on the following four issues of concern. We can urge our own governments to honor the ODA target for development assistance. On an even more local level, we can model the spirit of Jubilee by canceling a significant debt owed us by another in our own communities.
Peace is more than the absence of war and conflict.
It deals with restoring or reconciling to right relationship as well as developing the attitudes and skills within individuals and societies that respect diversity and that help us constructively manage the conflicts that arise in our lives. FI led the Religion and Spirituality Focus Group at HAP and this Focus Group continues chaired by FI, working on follow-up. Again, the Millennium Forum Declaration and Agenda for Action also includes a section on peace. Peace education is not confined to traditional classrooms. Creative avenues of peacemaking for all people at all levels are awaiting discovery and our willingness to be involved.