Seeds of Justice

Widening My Lens

I first turned to Education for Justice when I taught middle school and was looking for resources to introduce students to Catholic Social Teaching. EFJ provided me with the tools to share an effective overview that helped preteens begin to learn both the importance of CST and the seven themes. At this time, I was also the campus minister for faculty and for students from pre-school to high school. The prayers and prayer services created by EFJ connected real-world issues to Scripture and prayer in ways I would never have done on my own. They also provided a springboard for me to expand into retreat ideas and themes.  

When I moved to teaching high school, EFJ was my go-to resource for a more in-depth exploration of CST themes. The content expanded my understanding of CST and enabled my classes to explore pertinent examples for each theme. We were also able to ground our study in prayer, using one of the prayers provided for each CST value. “To Be in Solidarity,” by Dr. Jane Deren, is an excellent example of the way a prayer can also be a beautiful teaching tool.  

Today, I work in faith formation in my parish, and I continue to rely on EFJ to help me to stay abreast of social-justice-related topics. Most importantly, EFJ continuously exposes me to perspectives I may otherwise miss. These perspectives influence the material I develop for catechist formation and for student/family dialogue prompts. I am grateful for the many ways EFJ has broadened my understanding, provided teaching tools for use in the classroom and parish, and helped me see more vividly the hope that springs from learning and teaching about our call to act with justice.  

EFJ Reflection by Michelle Hogan, a faith formation leader and educator with experience in middle and high school theology, campus ministry, and parish religious education in Wilmington, Delaware.