RENATE Conference
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When we hear the Cry |
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RENATE (Religious in Europe Networking against Trafficking and Exploitation) Conference in Trzebinia (Poland), 4-9 September, 2011 |
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75 women religious from 17 European countries gathered to address issue of Human Trafficking (Sep 4 – 9 - 2011). I was the only Ursuline sister present. Cardinal Dziwisz of Krakow addressed the opening session of the conference with these words: "You are involved in a ministry that is very important in contemporary times, in which – as John Paul II said – the horizons of the European continent, which despite great signs of faith and witness and an atmosphere undoubtedly more free and unified, feels the consequences of moral and spiritual havoc... Physical, emotional and mental violence is spreading out and its victims are vulnerable people, deprived of their dignity and often treated as an object of trade. Preferential love for the poor is a necessary dimension of Christian existence and service to the Gospel. To love the poor, and to testify that they are especially loved by God, means acknowledging that persons have value in themselves, apart from their economic, cultural, and social status, and helping them to make the most of their potential.” |
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| He continued: "Through your inter-congregational co-operation and international structures, you can work with redoubled power and effectiveness. You are in possession of the biggest potential, which is not to be found even in the most wealthy organizations: your potential is your union with Christ, Redeemer of the world." |
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| The Keynote Address on Sep 5 was by the well-known British analyst, Ian Linden, on the opportunities, challenges and dangers in the situation of human trafficking. Theologian Mary Grey made a theological reflection at the end of each day's proceedings. On Sep 8 she had delivered an address aimed at helping the group to develop a theology and spirituality that energised those who take up the issue of trafficking of people. Her text really inspired me. |
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| Hands-on experiences of running shelters for survivors of trafficking in |
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All the papers and outcomes will be available on the website of RENATE www.renate-europe.net Sr. Meta, Province of Slovenia |
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