Reflection Process Readers are invited to use the following reflection “Unfortunately, during the course of 2,000 years of Christian history, this symbol of salvation has been detached from any reference to the ongoing suffering and oppression of human beings—those whom Ignacio Ellacuría, the Salvadoran martyr, called “the crucified peoples of history.” The cross has been transformed into a harmless, non-offensive ornament that Christians wear around their necks. Rather than reminding us of the “cost of discipleship,” it has become a form of “cheap grace,” an easy way to salvation that doesn’t force us to confront the power of Christ’s message and mission. Until we can see the cross and the lynching tree together, until we can identify Christ with a “recrucified” Black body hanging from a lynching tree, there can be no genuine understanding of Christian identity in America, and no deliverance from the brutal legacy of slavery and white supremacy.” — J A M E S H. C O N E, The Cross and the Lynching Tree
Who are the crucified peoples of today? How does their suffering and Christ’s suffering call us to transformation? We invite you to reflect on this issue of A Matter of Spirit. What phrases, ideas, or images stood out to you? Did any of them make you uncomfortable? Why? Sit with anything that might make you uncomfortable or uneasy. We have a tendency to ignore any feelings of discomfort, but without discomfort there is no growth. As persons of faith, we have been called to comfort those who mourn or as journalist Peter Dunne once said, “to comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable.”
nnHave I not been welcoming to the stranger? Do I trust people’s
experience, allowing it to transform and shape me? How can I accompany those who have been pushed out onto the margins of society? How can I care or advocate for those seeking to build a new life and a new community in my country?
nnHave I honored and recognized the Indigenous peoples who
occupied the land that I work, worship, and live on? Have I held the Church accountable for its complicity in mistreatment of Indigenous peoples?
nnWhat part of my history do I need to examine, interrogate, and be honest about?
nnIf I have power and privilege, have I actively elevated voices in
our world and in our Church who are Black, Indigenous and other peoples and communities of color?
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Justice Rising Podcast Thank you for helping to make the first season of Justice Rising a success! We will be launching season two in 2022. Themes we will explore are: restorative justice, sacred art and justice, and environmental justice.
SEASON ONE GUEST INTERVIEWS
Education Equity with Marcos Gonzales Finding Our Purpose with Dr. Patrick Reyes The Spirituality of Organizing with Michael Alcantara Charity vs Justice with Crystal Cardon Love on the Border with Tracey Horan, SP Mercy from the Cells with Jennifer Kelly
Listen at ipjc.org/justice-rising-podcast
Youth Action Team We welcomed Erin and Mallika, two high school students, as IPJC’s first Youth Action Team Interns. Together we are journeying through a formation process to grow as leaders and community organizers. Thus far, the students have created community norms, and honed their skills at storytelling for organizing. As we transition into winter, we will focus on identity, power, and tools for organizing. Stay tuned for updates on their community organizing project in late spring! Mallika & Erin developing community norms!