LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Recently we held a brainstorming session to review the contents and lessons of the food basket survey. In the next issue of the Bulletin, we will publish an up-date article, explaining its philosophy, usefulness and appeal. We will also give you an idea of the changes that we have made to its present format.

Speaking of changes, in the last issue of the Bulletin, we asked for your opinions on whether the name of the JCTR might be changed to Jesuit Centre for Faith and Justice (JCFJ). We have received many very helpful responses – we might have to have an official hand count as in Florida! -- and if you would like to make any additional comments on this proposal, please do let us know. We hope to have some decision, one way or another, as we move into 2001.

One significant recent “theological reflection” contribution of the JCTR came in early November, with the homily series for Advent being sent across Zambia. It is a good example of fulfilment of the JCTR’s mission to provide “a faith reflection rooted in the daily-life experience of people, especially the poor, done with socio-cultural analysis.”

As the new editor of the JCTR Bulletin, I close my letter here with a request for readers to send us articles, letters, poems, etc. – you will make future issues even more interesting. Thank you!

JCTR MISSION STATEMENT

The Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection is a research, consultancy and training project of the Zambia-Malawi Province of the Society of Jesus. The Centre's mission is to foster, from a theological perspective based on faith-inspired reflection, a critical understanding of current issues that will generate action. Specifically, in keeping with the agenda of the African Synod, our mission is to promote an inculturated faith, integrated human development, gender equality, and empowerment of local communities in the work of justice and peace and the integrity of creation.

Inspired by Jesuit traditions and recent Jesuit challenges, the Centre's mission is to minister to the local church in the service of faith and the promotion of justice, with attention to culture and dialogue.

The approach of the JCTR, based on the church's social teaching, includes a faith reflection rooted in the daily-life experience of people, especially the poor, done with socio-cultural analysis. Our approach is influenced by the Ignatian spirituality of ''finding God in all things'' and ''reading the signs of the times.'' Our activities include publications, workshops and training programmes, consultancies, and cooperation with groups committed to action related to our mission. Our Jesuit sponsorship assures an international linkage to our efforts.