DECLARATION OF WOMEN RELIGIOUS - 2001
reflecting on the theme
Women Religious: Many Cultures, One Heart:
Sent to be a living presence of the tenderness and mercy
of God in our wounded world
publicly declare our determination to work in solidarity with one another
within our own religious communities and
and in the countries in which we are located
to address insistently at every level
the abuse and sexual exploitation of women and children
with particular attention to the trafficking of women
which has become a lucrative multi-national business.
Drawing on our long tradition as educators we will continue
to promote the education and formation of women
within and outside our own organizations
by committing personnel and financial resources
to ensure the holistic development of women at every stage of life
empowering them to develop an inner strength and appreciation
of their God-given gifts to promote and enhance life.
As women committed to human rights
we declare once more our solidarity with the poorest countries
and restate our resoution to work
for the cancellation of the international debt.
As women opposed to the perpetuation of war and violence
we express our commitment to the creation of a culture of peace
and we call on heads of governments and multi-national companies
to stop the sale and purchase of armaments.
As women concerned about the preservation of Mother Earth
we will take action when and wherever possible
to end the destructive behaviour that causes global warming and climate change
and threatens all forms of life on our planet.
We pledge ourselves to implement these resolutions
through a system of networking among ourselves
and with other existing organizations with similar concerns
within Churches and society.
Attentive to the cries that arise with one voice from many cultures
we will respond as women disciples of Jesus Christ
seeing the world with eyes of the heart
and with the compassion of a loving God.