Lent 2010 - Empowering the Poor in the Developing World

An Appeal to the Religious Communities Throughout the World

Fairtrade practices can be a catalyst to shape an alternative form of globalization which values solidarity and promotes more equitable global relationships.

This is urgent in the light of unacceptable inequalities: In 2005, the poorest 40% of the world population accounted for 5% of global income.

( www.cgfmanet.org ) “There is a shared opinion that one of the most significant revolutions of our era – without any bloodshed, but still very costly – was the one carried out by women who have changed the face of the family and of society.” (Di Nicola - Danish).

We want to look at what this statement means on the occasion of World Women's Day and in the light of the 15th anniversary of the World Conference on Women held in Peking in 1995.

( www.virtualvins.net )What are the possibilities for Vincentians approaching systemic change in a North American context?

How is this different from systemic change in other part of the world?

( www.mmmworldwide.org ) Africa is proud that the 19th FIFA World Cup will be held on its soil for the first time. For every seven tourists, one job will be created in South Africa. But an international meeting of religious women held in Johannesburg last month was concerned that not everyone will enjoy the event.

Wherever major world sporting events are located, brothels tend to spring up and vulnerable women could be trafficked to meet the demand.