Father Chris Hughes will speak on the theme “No justice, no peace” at a day of prayer, reflection and solidarity at St Mary’s Cathedral to mark the 10th World Day of the Poor.
A parish priest in North Shields, Father Chris is also chair of the Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle’s Environmental Group and a member of its Justice & Peace Council.
In his message for the day, “The Lord is the refuge of the poor”, Pope Leo offers encouragement and challenge as he reflects on Psalm 14 and its continuing relevance in a world marked by injustice and inequality.
He says Christians are called not only to seek refuge in God but also to become a refuge for others in God, showing love and care to those in our families, workplace, schools, community and globally.
Following the example of St Francis, we are invited to walk in solidarity with people experiencing poverty and hardship of any kind, both at home and abroad, to share in their experiences, and to listen to voices that often go unheard.
As disciples of Jesus, we are called to go out and meet people in need, offer practical help, and build relationships founded on justice, dignity and fraternity.
In his first apostolic exhortation Dilexi Te (subtitled “On love for the poor”), Pope Leo says: “The Church must be a Church of the Beatitudes, one that makes room for the little ones and walks poor with the poor, a place where the poor have a privileged place.” (no 21)
Pope Leo said he hopes the 10th World Day of the Poor will help Christians rediscover the faces of brothers and sisters who seek refuge in God and long to feel at home in our communities.
The event, organised by Caritas Diocese of Middlesbrough, will explore these themes and the Church’s “Preferential Option for the Poor”.
Father Chris’s talk will consider how we can work towards a just peace where we live.
Organisations that support people in need will be present to raise awareness of their work. Those who receive help and those who offer it will pray together in solidarity, recognising that each of us may need support at one time and be able to give it at another.
The day will create space to hear lived experiences, learn what has helped people on their journeys, and understand the obstacles they face.
Event details
Date: Saturday November 14
Time: 10.30 am–3.15 pm
Venue: St Mary’s Cathedral
All are welcome. Tea and coffee will be available – please bring a packed lunch. Parking at the Parkway Centre is chargeable after the first five hours. Please do come along and bring a friend or two!
Teresa Lyth
