The basic dignity of every human being is the principle upon which the social gospel of the Church is based, and social justice is at the core of the Mercy ministry.
At Saint Joseph's, through various activities sponsored or supported by the Mercy Center, students have numerous opportunities to learn about the contemporary issues that still oppress the poor, the vulnerable, and the marginalized, chiefly by serving in solidarity with "the least of these" (Matthew 25). By first performing Works of Mercy, we get to meet our neighbors face-to-face and get to know their stories. But this is only the beginning: From works of charity, questions about the conditions that create need arise and require answers. These begin to be formulated in social justice activities, which not only raise awareness but also serve to promote change in the unjust structures that keep people in poverty or sidelined from society.
Want to see one of the many ways to get involved and to be the change? View the video of Spring Break Work Fest 2011 in New York, created by alum Molly Shaw '12.
Social Justice Resources
Contact Us
Kathryn Cody Russell
Director of Mercy Center
207-893-7794
kcody@sjcme.edu