For implementing Go and Make Disciples, the bishops' plan and strategy for Catholic
Evangelization in the U.S. (as recommended by the Office of Justice and Peace):
Goal III:  to foster gospel values in our society, promoting the dignity of the human person, the importance of the family, and the common good of our society, so that our nation may continue to be transformed by the saving power of Jesus Christ.

A. Resources in the Archdiocese:
1. Groups of low income people funded by CCHD are helping people help themselves in
Cornelius, Coos Bay, Independence, Lincoln City, Medford, Portland, Salem, and Oregon at large.

They are dealing with issues of justice around health care, mental health, living wage jobs, affordable housing, migrant workers, immigration, tenant issues, job skills training, economic development, people with disabilities, day laborers, community organizing and homelessness. If you want to learn more about grass roots empowerment or leadership development, or if you want to build a relationship of solidarity with one of these groups, call the Archdiocesan Office of Justice and Peace (503-233-8361) to find one near to you.

2. For the social concerns priorities of the Oregon Catholic Bishops, contact the Oregon Catholic
Conference,  % Bob Castagna,  Exec. Dir., 2838 E. Burnside, Portland, 97214.   503-233-8387.

3. In the Portland metropolitan area one can find information on many livability issues at Coalition
for a Livable Future, 534 S.W. 3rd Ave, Suite 300, Portland, 97204; 503-294-2889.

B.  Resources for Regional issues:
1. If you want to explore the Catholic vision of justice in terms of our environment, begin with the Columbia River pastoral letter process, www.columbiariver.org or call 503-233-8361.

2.  To join N.W. regional efforts to build multicultural communities, contact Raul Velazquez,  2838
E. Burnside, Portland, 97214-5334; 503-233-8325.

C.  Resources for National and Global issues
1. We recommend you begin by choosing from among the legislative priorities of the US
Conference of Catholic Bishops (e.g., catholic campaigns on landmines and international debt).
In particular we recommend the web site of the Dept of Social Development & World Peace
www.nccbuscc.org/sdwp/index.htm, to see Catholic social teachings applied to numerous domestic
issues and international areas.  Write them at 3211 Fourth Street. N.E.  Washington DC, 200017-
1194;   202 541-3180.

2. Women Religious began a Catholic lobby group called NETWORK applying Catholic social
teachings to current issues.  Membership is now open to all.  Recent legislative priorities are: the
federal budget, housing, health care, anti-poverty / welfare reform and global economic justice
NETWORK  801 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE, Suite 460, Washington, DC 20003-2167
202-547-5556.  www.networklobby.org

3. Catholic Relief Services
Provides diocesan liaison to the official overseas aid and development agency of American Catholics. CRS seeks the alleviation of human suffering and the fostering of charity and justice in the world.  Catholic Relief Services web site: www.catholicrelief.org
Catholic Relief Services Lenten Activity Guide
 

Return to Justice and Peace Home Page