Join us Thursday, October 21, 7:00 Eastern Time, for a presentation by regular guest, Jill Rauh, entitled “Civilize It,” discussing Pope Francis’ hope for “a new kind of politics.”

Events of the past year point to the reality that we continue to experience a time of deep division in both Church and society. Ongoing polarization and division make day-to-day ministry—and our relationships with one another and the ability to work together—challenging. Pope Francis, in his newest encyclical, Fratelli Tutti, and in his recent book, Let Us Dream, urges us, in the midst of division, to seek a better way. Key to Pope Francis’ approach for “a better kind of politics” is the ability to transcend divisions in service to the common good. This approach requires a recognition of our common humanity and a commitment to encounter, active listening, truth, and the ability to discern bias in or manipulation by media sources. Dialogue based in social love can inspire “new ways of approaching the problems of today’s world, of profoundly renewing structures, social organizations and legal systems from within” (no. 183). Join us to reflect on Pope Francis’ vision of “a new kind of politics” and to think about how you can make that vision a reality in your family, neighborhood, parish, school or workplace.

Presenter Jill Rauh is the Director of Education and Outreach for the Office of Justice, Peace and Human Development for the U.S. Catholic Bishops.