St. Sebastian/St.Vincent Social Justice Ministry

St. Sebastian/St.Vincent Social Justice Ministry …and Justice for All Meeting Minutes Date: April 15, 2012

Attendees: Burris, Anne Sain, Greg Tschantz, Mary Furman, Larry Skeen, Harry Varner, Carolyn Hudson, Hank Tschantz, Dave Yanko, Mary

Items Discussed: 1. Opening reflection was provided by Anne.

2. Hank led the discussion of Chapters 12 and 13 of Bridges Out of Poverty. a. The first chapter deals with issues relating to individuals within agencies or any organization possessing the skills necessary to communicate and support people in poverty. Checklists shown in the book list a wide variety of recommended (or necessary) skills for different staffing positions. There was discussion around the importance of the specific skills highlighted for a receptionist versus judges or therapists. The importance of first impressions, respectful treatment, and follow-thru were common threads through most of the lists. b. The next chapter focused on agencies and organizations rather than individuals. The importance of policies and processes within the various agencies and the impact on the people they intend to serve. The policies must accommodate the culture of those in poverty. It is important to respect the person’s limitations with respect to transportation, need for positive reinforcement, and method of communication. Time is limited in many situations and the process must maximize the opportunity for personal attention and follow-thru. c. The needs of people in poverty are best served when an organization is run appropriately and is staffed by personnel that have the necessary skill sets to provide the needed support. d. Core skills of staff must be evaluated and training provided where possible to improve the outcomes for the clients.

3. Nest month we will be skipping chapter 14 which covers “Improving Interagency Collaboration” because it is not terribly relevant to our mission at this time. Instead, the last chapter “Poverty Culture, Addiction, Treatment, and Recovery” will be discussed. Bernie Rochford will be contacted to see if he may lead the discussion.

4. The October movie series was discussed. a. Carolyn reviewed Sweet Crude and indicated it was good but was concerned with the age (2008) of the documentary and the need to understand what the current situation is in the subject area. Web sites for the film will be reviewed for current content. Harry Skeen took the disc and will review. b. Carolyn suggested that Crash may be considered. The film is a major picture, receiving Best Picture Oscar in 2006. There are many areas of social justice that could be focused on in discussions. c. Additional movies for consideration are : The Visitor, Millions, A Better Life (interpretation of The Bicycle Thief) d. There are shows produced with Bill Moyers that deal with social justice issues that could be considered.

5. Mary gave a recap of the evaluation forms for the Lenten Program: a. 42 evaluations were received and many of the respondents had been to a majority of the evenings. b. There were suggestions to have the sessions videotaped to allow streaming on the web site for those unable to attend. c. People were complimentary regarding the themes and felt the sessions were informative, thought provoking and spiritual. d. The prayer services were appreciated and the music well liked except for the difficult songs the first night. e. There was interest in having the programs have an action component. There is a need to provide people with opportunities to investigate or participate in some advocacy efforts related to the program topics. f. Suggestions were made for future speakers including a return of Sr. Diane Culbertson, Fr. McDonough, Msgr. Wolff and others. g. Negative comments related to the sound system and uneven discussion periods at the closing. There was difficulty in getting the various speakers to buy in to the proposed format. h. Comments regarding hospitality were positive. i. Mary was contacted by the Diocesan Social Action Office with a request for pictures from our program to use in a newsletter article. Larry will contact Mike Palcko to see if pics are available.

6. Mary and Greg provided the following comments regarding the Catholic Commission: a. Death penalty petition (postcard sheets) were distributed. Completed cards will be returned to Mary and they will be hand delivered to the Ohio legislators. b. Ohio will be resuming executions (April 18). Efforts are being redoubled by advocates of abolishing the practice. Five more states have passed moratoriums or abolished the practice recently, Connecticut most recently. c. The Commission will be on the road this month at Our Lady of Victory. Jeff Abood will be speaking on the Plight of Christians in the Holy Land. d. The Commission is sponsoring programs around the Diocese on conscience formation in terms of Faithful Citizenship. St. Sebastian would be a good location for our area. Mondays in September were suggested as a possible night. Larry will check with Fr Valencheck for approval before Mary T checks availability of Z-Hall.

7. Discussion regarding the parish closings took place and good information is available on the FutureChurch web site. There is interest in seeing how the Diocese proceeds after the Vatican’s response to the appeals.

8. Next meeting is Sunday, May 20 @10AM in Byrider Hall; Greg Sain will have the prayer and treat.