Let’s build peace, NZ bishops say in Social Justice Week message

The theme for this year’s message is “Let’s Build Peace Together”. It draws on Scripture and the teaching of consecutive popes to explore how Jesus can be a source of peace in various ways.

The bishops explain that peace is something that grows “through kindness, through listening and through action”.

“Every one of us is given opportunities to be peacemakers,” they write.

“Sometimes, this means speaking out against injustice. Other times, it looks like quietly serving someone in need, showing respect when it’s difficult or standing in solidarity with those who are suffering. Often, it begins in the quiet moments of prayer, where we allow the Holy Spirit to renew us and guide our hearts.”

The quest for peace cannot simply be handed over to others, such as governments and political leaders, the bishops argue, saying that is the calling of every Christian.

“Our world needs people who are willing to engage in dialogue, act with compassion and build relationships grounded in dignity and love,” they write. “As Pope Francis has reminded us, peace is crafted not with weapons, but with open hearts and outstretched hands.”

This year’s message is the third of three consecutive peace-related themes for the bishops’ annual social justice statement.

“Although this may be the last step in a structured focus, the call to peace is never finished,” the bishops write. “We must continue to walk this path with courage, faith and hope.”

Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand, the bishops’ agency for justice, development and peace, has prepared a suite of resources to support Social Justice Week activities.

The resources include material for students across all year levels, support for liturgical celebrations and “peace passports” drawing on the Pilgrims of Hope theme for the 2025 Jubilee Year.

FULL STORY

Social Justice Week Statement 2025 (NZCBC)

Social Justice Week resources (Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand)