Palm Sunday reflection

Whenever a person or organization collaborates on an issue, their impact and influence increase significantly; they “open their ears so to hear” together, and the sharing of ideas, expertise, and outreach efforts multiplies, fostering broader systemic change.

Catholic sisters, all used to living and ministering in and with community, have been working together nationally for years. Sisters in leadership and in social justice ministry meet regularly, sharing ideas, pooling resources, and working in partnership on projects.

Three years ago, sisters and lay partners concerned about the rising gun violence in our country, held a breakfast meeting during a conference for justice coordinators of women religious communities. At this first meeting, it was decided to call the group Nuns Against Gun Violence. It was also decided to continue meeting virtually once or twice a month to speak with a united voice against the crisis of gun violence. Each monthly meeting begins with a very moving prayer service for those impacted or killed by gun violence the month before. We pray “to open our ears to hear,” to do all we can to prevent another person from dying due to gun violence.

Nuns Against Gun Violence provides resources to deepen awareness of the realities of gun violence. We also offer advocacy opportunities with other organizations nationwide to end gun violence and support evidence-based violence prevention.

Being part of Nuns Against Gun Violence has helped me to become more aware of the root causes of gun violence in our society and the value of violence prevention measures. This led me to learn more about violence prevention programs in my state of Connecticut, empowering me to testify before our State Appropriations Committee to increase funding for them. Through this committee, I was invited to participate in an advocacy day at the Pennsylvania State Capitol, the state where our Provincial House is located. At many of our monthly meetings, I hear about strategies others have tried that I would never have thought of on my own. Working with others passionate about the issue of saving lives and decreasing lifelong injuries due to the use of guns fosters the genuine empowerment of each member.

You do not need to be a sister or associated with a religious community to join Nuns Against Gun Violence. You only need to be passionate about preventing gun violence.