September 25, 2025

“And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace for those who cultivate peace.”

James 3:18


As the days grow shorter and the first hints of fall appear, we are reminded that this is a season of both reflection and renewal. Autumn invites us to pause, take stock, and consider how we are called to sow seeds of justice and peace that will bear fruit in the months ahead. In this newsletter, you’ll find stories of Catholic leaders and communities working for racial reconciliation, climate action, care for creation, and the dignity of every person. May these updates inspire us to walk together with hope and courage in the footsteps of Christ.

National Migration Week

and Jubilee of Migration

National Migration Week and the Jubilee of Migration offer the Church an opportunity to reflect on the movement of people worldwide and to recommit to welcoming migrants and refugees with justice and compassion. This year’s theme highlights the call to build communities where all can belong and flourish. Below are resources and statements you can use to engage with this global moment:



  • CMSM and several of our member communities have released responses and statements on migration — read here.
  • Message for the World Day of Migrants and Refugees from Pope Leo XIV — read here.
  • Vatican Migrants and Refugees Section resources for the Jubilee of Migration — read here.
  • USCCB resources for National Migration Week — read here.
  • Take the Cabrini Pledge to support and stand with migrants — read here.
  • Jesuit Refugee Service action plan for National Migration Week — read here.

Antiracism Initiatives

Marianist Social Justice Collaborative: Antiracism Resources


The Marianist Social Justice Collaborative (MSJC), a ministry of the Society of Mary and the rest of the Marianist family, is deepening its commitment to antiracism through a year-long process of assessment, listening, and planning. A new "Race Equity Report" offers the findings of this assessment, alongside tools to help communities engage in anti-racism work.


  • Read the full "Race Equity Report" here.
  • Watch the webinar overview here.
  • Read “Why is MSJC Committed to Organizational Antiracism?” here.
  • Register for an "Open Visioning Session here.


Bishops Make Committee Against Racism Permanent


The US bishops’ Administrative Committee voted to transition the Ad Hoc Committee Against Racism into a permanent subcommittee. This structural change underscores a long-term commitment to racial justice and reconciliation within the Church. Leaders emphasized that ongoing formation and action are needed to reflect the dignity of every person.


Read more here.

News

Human Dignity Is the Foundation for Peace, says Archbishop Broglio


Archbishop Timothy Broglio urged Catholics to pray and act for peace in the Holy Land. He emphasized that genuine peace must begin with respect for human life and dignity above all else. His call included a ceasefire, the release of hostages, and renewed humanitarian aid to those suffering.


Read more here.


Catholic Leaders: Climate Action Is Vital to Global Peace


Church leaders are drawing a clear line between climate change and global conflict. They warned that ecological destruction and rising instability feed cycles of violence, especially for the poor and displaced. Their message calls for urgent action to protect creation as an essential path toward lasting peace.


Read more here.


Pope Inaugurates Center for Zero-Waste, Inclusive Economy


Pope Leo XIV opened a new Vatican-supported farm and training center that promotes a zero-waste, inclusive economy. The initiative will model sustainable agriculture and teach practices that integrate justice, equity, and care for workers. It reflects the Church’s commitment to building an economy rooted in human dignity and ecological balance.


Read more here.


Migrants Are Not Enemies, Pope Leo Reminds Us


Pope Leo XIV has renewed his call for compassion toward migrants and refugees. He reminded Catholics that those on the move are not adversaries but brothers and sisters who share in the human family. His message urged a shift from fear and division toward welcome, hospitality, and justice.


Read more here.


Justice to the Poor: A Dominican Priest on Capitol Hill


Fr. Pius Pietrzyk, OP, has served for 15 years on the board of the Legal Services Corporation, a federally funded nonprofit that provides legal aid to low-income Americans. As one of the only priests to hold a Senate-confirmed position, he brings a unique voice to the national effort to ensure access to justice in housing, custody, and domestic violence cases. Pietrzyk insists that the measure of success is simple: whether the poor are helped.


Read more here.

Initiatives

Respect Life Month


Each October, the Church in the United States marks Respect Life Month, renewing its commitment to defending human dignity at every stage of life. The USCCB’s 2025 statement highlights the sacredness of life in the face of cultural and technological challenges, and Catholic organizations are providing resources for prayer, education, and advocacy. Communities are encouraged to use this month to deepen their witness to a consistent ethic of life.

  • Read the USCCB Respect Life Month statement here.
  • Explore resources and parish tools at RespectLife.org here.
  • Access the Catholics Mobilizing Network Respect Life Month toolkit here.


Franciscan Action Network - “Pilgrimages of Hope for Creation”


Running September 1-October 4, 2025. Communities across the U.S. are invited to host pilgrimage experiences (from short walks to more involved treks) aimed at restoring our relationship with God, each other, and Earth. Includes a toolkit and resources to help organizers.


More information here.

Events

Laudato Si’ Action Platform Webinar


As part of the Season of Creation 2025, the Laudato Si’ Action Platform is hosting a webinar for the religious sector on September 26, 2025, at 3:00 PM (Rome time). The event will focus on how religious communities can integrate Laudato Si’ into their life and mission, offering practical resources and inspiration for ongoing action.


Read more here.


Deepening Communion in a Polararized World



  • November 4-6, 2025 in St. Meinrad, IN
  • More information is available here.

Correction: In last month’s Items of Note: Justice & Peace, we wrote that the USCCB endorsed bi-partisan legislation on immigration reform, when they simply expressed appreciation for the bipartisan collaboration.

Contact CMSM JPIC


Dr. David Rohrer Budiash, Director of Programs & Managing Editor, Review for Religious

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