Global Solidarity

We all have a responsibility to protect the weak, vulnerable, and oppressed, although doing so is very often challenging. In a situation like this, where prostitution is clearly an accepted and common practice for women in Mah Gul's area, it is very difficult to solve the central problem. Women may be forced into prostitution because of lack of money, so clearly the most effective way to help them is to set them up in other jobs. We can provide temporary assistance to such women who are victimized, including shelter and therapy, but it is not as helpful as providing them with a lasting way to make money for their family. Helping women involved with prostitution has a smaller response than aiding countries that have suffered from natural disasters for a few reasons. First of all, prostitution is not a one-time problem: it is always happening, and thus is harder to conquer. Second of all, some people may see prostitutes as not deserving of assistance, although sometimes they truly are just as innocent as those who suffer from natural disasters. Catholic Social Teaching, however, teaches us that we have help all those in need, not just who we see as innocent. One of its principal teachings, in fact, tells us that we have to visit those in prison, who clearly are not innocent. Therefore, we must take as much responsibility in helping women like Mah Gul better their lives just as much as any other person living in destitution.

Year of Faith

I think that many of Bishop Ricken's suggestions are actually very feasible, and I would be very willing to try most of them. I believe that most of his ideas should always be done by Catholics, but I understand that some may be unable to attend mass every Sunday, or may not feel that reading the Bible strengthens their relationship with God, ect. Additionally, I think that reading the Catechism and reading the documents of Vatican II, while they may be interesting to see the Church's true position, would not strengthen one's faith as much as his other suggestions. I think that just reading the Catechism does not teach us about our faith as much as prayer or participation in church does. That being said, I would do the other suggestions, especially read the Bible daily, learn about the lives of saints if possible (which I believe should be taught more in schools), participate in mass, and volunteer to help others in need. I already do all of these things, but I could probably work on some more than others. One suggest of Bishop Ricken's that I would not follow is go to Confession, although I do believe that if Catholics think Confessions strengthens their relationship with God, than this year is an ideal time to go to Confession more. Some additional acts that I might try to do for the next year are pray the rosary a few times a week, because I always feel a better bond with God, and to pray more often. Finally, one suggestion I would make to all Catholics is to try to take time off of their daily lives to either go on a retreat, or to do a mission or service trip. These things are so important in reminding us of what is most important in our lives, and the Year of Faith is a perfect time for them.