JustFaith

What is JustFaith?

JustFaith is a small group program of spiritual growth and challenge sponsored nationally by Catholic Charities USA and locally by the Office of Justice and Peace and Sowers of Justice of the Catholic Diocese of Richmond. In the words of Jack Jezreel, founder and director of JustFaith:

“JustFaith is a justice education/formation program that provides an opportunity for parishioners to study and be formed by the justice tradition articulated by the scriptures, the Church’s historical witness, and Catholic social teaching. It seeks to integrate personal spirituality and social ministry, to empower participants to develop a passion and thirst for justice, and to express this passion in concrete acts….”

“JustFaith classes meet weekly for nine months, employing books, videos, lecture, discussion, prayer, retreats, and hands-on experiences. The intent is to provide a tapestry of learning opportunities that emphasize and enliven the remarkable justice tradition of the Church. Participants are exposed not only to a substantive and demanding course of study but are also afforded the privilege of becoming a community with other participants and sharing a journey of faith and compassion that is both life-giving and challenging.”

What will I get out of JustFaith?

Of course, as the saying goes, “you get out of it what you put into it.” But the experience of participants suggests that people get a lot out of JustFaith. People say that they grow spiritually, get closer to God and closer to God’s people, especially the poor and the vulnerable. Most participants find JustFaith a challenging experience that opens their eyes and hearts to the cries of God’s people and the call of the Gospel. JustFaith groups become small faith communities that nurture and challenge their members. Friendships develop and deepen.

What is the time commitment?

JustFaith is a very rewarding experience spiritually, but the time commitment is substantial. There are 30 weekly meetings of 2 to 2 ½ hours (with a few weeks “off”), generally running from September to May. The reading takes 2 to 4 hours per week. Plus there are two overnight weekend retreats (often done at a local parish, but sometimes away at a retreat center). These retreats run from Friday evening to Saturday evening or Sunday morning, depending on the group. There is also an opportunity for interaction with a local low-income community and three hands-on experiences that engage participants with persons living in poverty. These opportunities take place outside the normal meetings.

What does JustFaith cost?

Individuals pay a fee of $120 per person; this fee includes a registration fee, materials, possible speakers and two retreats. In addition, the cost of books is estimated at $115 to $125 over the course of the year. Scholarships are available and assistance with the cost of books is available on an as needed basis. No one is turned away.

Where can I get more information?

Many parishes and regions have JustFaith contacts. In Tidewater you can contact Tim McCarthy by phone at 486-3375 or email at mccarthyt@aol.com. You can also contact Stephen Colecchi at the Office of Justice and Peace of the Catholic Diocese of Richmond at 804-359-5661 or scolecchi@richmonddiocese.org. You can also visit the national web site of JustFaith at www.justfaith.org for more information.