Hunger Meal Nourishing Solidarity in Our Lives

During her presentation before the hunger meal, Julie Tétreault, volunteer and member of the SNJM Québec Justice et Paix committee, drew inspiration from an excerpt in the Gospel of Saint John (12: 20-33) and a text by a young woman from Ontario entitled “La nécessité de cultiver et de nourrir la solidarité dans nos vies” (“The need to cultivate and nurture solidarity in our lives”).

Julie Tétreault, during her presentation

Beyond the issues of world hunger, she spoke of the importance of “sowing seeds of justice and dignity to support the rights of farmers by helping to create an environment” conducive to their family and collective prosperity.

She also invited her audience to consider how we can respond to the calls we receive on a daily basis. “Solidarity is an invitation to act on behalf of those most in need, to share our resources, our love and to pray for them.” The expression of this solidarity can take many forms, taking into account the realities of each person: “What gestures of kindness and solidarity are seen around you, in this residence, in your entourage?”

Recalling that “cultivating solidarity means helping to build a community where everyone’s rights are respected”, Julie Tétreault reiterated her invitation to contribute to Development and Peace – Caritas Canada’s fundraising campaign to support vulnerable communities around the world, particularly those in Nigeria, Bolivia and Indonesia.

The traditional Hunger Meal of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM) was held on March 21 at Maison Jésus-Marie (SNJM). Organized as part of Development and Peace’s spring campaign, this frugal meal (soup, bread and cheese) is a way to share in both gesture and spirit with millions of people suffering from hunger and poverty, and to express solidarity.

Photos credit: Sr. Hélène Harvey