Responsible Citizenship
It gives me great pleasure to welcome you to the 2010–2011 SJU Lectures in Catholic Experience.
Our theme this year celebrates the third anniversary of the SJU Centre for Responsible Citizenship. Launched in September 2008 to provide the SJU community with opportunities to support social justice initiatives, the Centre is founded on the Catholic tradition’s call for citizens to be active participants in all areas of public life. As the Catechism of the Catholic Church reminds us, “It is necessary that all participate, each according to his [or her] position and role, in promoting the common good. This obligation is inherent in the dignity of the human person … As far as possible citizens should take an active part in public life.” Or to put it another way, “in the Catholic tradition, responsible citizenship is a virtue, and participation in political life is a moral obligation.”
This season, our lectures and public events address many of today’s pressing public issues: multiculturalism in Canada, the role of religion in politics, public justice, and responses to humanitarian crises. Our speakers this year will introduce to people and movements within the church, political figures, and civil society organizations that are committed to the prophetic call of working toward a more just and peaceable world.
We look forward to seeing you!
Scott Kline, PhD
Series Coordinator
Acting Director, SJU Centre for Responsible Citizenship
