Global solidarity

In recent news, a young girl from Afghanistan was murdered for refusing to participate in prostitution.  Please read this article about this situation.  What do you think is the world's responsibility (if anything) to protect young women who are abused and taken advantage of throughout the world?  Explain your response, citing themes of Catholic Social Teaching.  How does this compare with the world's response to other global disasters and situations (such as tsunamis, hurricanes, etc)?  Why do you think there is this difference in level of concern/reaction/shock?

Resolutions

As the Catholic Church approaches the 50th anniversary of the Second Vatican Council, Pope Benedict XVI has announced a 'Year of Faith' that will begin on 10/11/12 and continue through to 11/24/13.  This will be a time of renewal and celebration of the rich tradition and teachings that came forth from the Second Vatican Council.  Here is one Bishop's suggestions on how to live this year of faith.  What do you think?  Based on what you've learned thus far in CST and in theology classes at MSJA, how do you resolve to celebration a 'year of faith'?  Think of at least 5 resolutions you would make- they can include some of Bishop Ricken's suggestions but add your original commentary.

Circle of Protection

In July, a group of religious leaders across the spectrum posed questions to the presidential candidates on the topic of poverty.  This group, named the Circle of Protection, argues that we as a nation need programs to protect the poorest and most vulnerable members of our society.  Please read about their position and beliefs and then watch the brief (3 minutes each) video responses from Governor Romney and President Obama.  In your own words, summarize the candidate's statements and explain how they compare to the Church's teaching on justice and charity.  What are the strengths/weaknesses of the candidates statements?

Charity and Justice

One of the leading advocates for justice in the Philadelphia region is Sister  Mary Scullion.  Sister Mary works with the homeless through an organization called Project HOME.  Spend some time looking at their website and post on your blog a thoughtful response to the following questions:
1) How does project home work for justice for the homeless?  Do you think they also do works of charity?  2) How does project home compare to/differ from traditional homeless shelters?  Is this a better model, more complicated, etc?  3) After looking at their website and programs offered, what do you think is their 'best' or most important program?  Why? 
In your response, you needn't number it but rather answer in 2-3 paragraphs of thoughtful reflection!

It's about... forgiveness?

Today is September 11th.  As a nation, we collectively remember, mourn and pause to remember what that day has meant to our nation.  It was a day that the sense of American security crumbled beneath our fingertips... a day when heroism and self-sacrifice reigned... and a day when stereotypes and distrust of 'the other' hit an all-time high.  On the eleventh anniversary, one Catholic blogger asked the question (that has certainly been asked over the last 11 years by others like him), Are we supposed to forgive Osama Bin Laden?
Please read this post and in your own words, explain your reaction.  Should we forgive?  What does it mean to forgive?  How is forgiveness a part of the Christian story?  In your post, be sure to include your opinion, backed by theological examples.  This can be in the form of scripture passages, teachings of Jesus or Traditional teachings of the Church.  Your post should be at least 3 paragraphs.