Both the Columban Missionaries and the FCJ Sisters have made care for creation a priority in their work, shaped by their experiences on the front line of the climate and biodiversity crises around the world. Yet, given the slow pace of change, it is not always easy to live in hope – and this reality is already having, and will continue to have, a profound impact on young people and their futures.
Like the Columbans, the FCJ Sisters have a long history of engagement with education and formation, supporting learning about faith and action for the common good.
Our Coordinator of Justice, Peace and Ecology, James Trewby, together with Sr. MaryAnne Francalanza, Director of the FCJ Centre for Spirituality and EcoJustice, invite all those “with a heart for young people” to join us online at 4pm on Monday 15th December for a time of Advent formation and reflection.
This one-hour Zoom session will bring together teachers, youth ministers, chaplains, parents, and others concerned for young people and their future. Together we will look back at COP30, the UN climate meeting in Brazil, and forward to the coming of Christ, the source of our hope, at Christmas.
The session will feature two special guests:
- Jane Mellett (Trócaire): recently returned from COP30 in Belém, she will share her experience of the conference, young people’s engagement with it, and her hopes and concerns about the outcomes.
- Becca Long: this year’s Columban Faith in Action Volunteer, who will offer reflections on hope in scripture, looking ahead to God’s incarnation at Christmas.
Our Advent reflection offers participants a unique opportunity to connect global realities with faith-filled hope. Those joining will gain first-hand insights from COP30, helping them understand the challenges and opportunities young people face in the climate crisis, alongside practical ways to nurture hope in their communities. The session will inspire with faith-based responses and equip those working with young people to better support them in navigating their futures with resilience and courage.
The Columbans have a history of partnership with others, both here in Britain and around the world. We are therefore pleased that Sr MaryAnne FCJ is a member of our Columban Justice, Peace and Ecology Team, bringing her commitment, spirituality and expertise. Both James and MaryAnne are members of the Catholic Youth Ministry Federation, and have collaborated on many projects over the years, including the 24 hour prayer vigil at COP26 in Glasgow and the recent ‘Hope For Our Common Home’ pilgrimage through the diocese of Salford.
If you’re interested in attending our ‘Looking Ahead with Hope?’ event, please sign up here: https://bit.ly/LookingAheadWithHOPE
