Development & Peace

Development and Peace is a group of dedicated Newman Centre parishioners who are inspired by Gospel values, particularly "the preferential option for the poor," and strive to promote Catholic social justice both locally and globally.

We meet on the THIRD Monday of every month, from 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm in the Cardinal Newman Room of the Newman Centre.

 We are the parish-level chapter of the Canadian Catholic Organization for Development and Peace http://www.devp.org/, the official international development organization of the Catholic Church in Canada.  The twin goals of this nationwide organization are to: support initiatives by people in the Global South to take control of their lives and to educate Canadians about the causes of these injustices. 

At the Newman Centre, our local chapter of Development and Peace places a heavy emphasis on group formation.  Members take turns leading prayer, engaging social issues, and sharing in fellowship (usually over food and drink).
 
We consciously follow the SEE-JUDGE-ACT methodology. Here’s how it works:

SEE: First, we recognize an injustice in the world (on the local, national or international level).  Great efforts are made to engage this injustice as it is perceived and experienced by those affected.  Each week, a different member has the opportunity to present an issue in whatever medium they choose.

JUDGE: Next, we examine the injustice as a group through the eye of social analysis and the eye of faith (turning to the Gospel and Catholic social teaching).

ACT: Finally, we propose an action plan to tackle the problem, either as a group or individually.  These actions can take the form of: active volunteering, coordinating education campaigns in the parish/archdiocese, organize a letter-writing campaign to our political leaders, hosting fundraisers or whatever action is appropriate to the situation.

By building community and solidarity within the group, we empower ourselves so that we can go forth and empower others. 

All are welcome to pray, dialogue and act with us!

For more information, please contact: dp@newmantoronto.com