Gabrielle from the Carmelite JPIC group writes:

"Our Rights. Our Freedoms. Always." aims to promote and raise awareness of the two Covenants on their 50th anniversary.

The year-long campaign revolves around the theme of rights and freedoms -- freedom of speech, freedom of worship, freedom from want, and freedom from fear --

which underpin the International Bill of Human Rights are as relevant today as they were when the Covenants were adopted 50 years ago.

Gracious God. In union with all your creation we pray: Enable us to

save succeeding generations from the scourge of war, to reaffirm

faith in fundamental human rights, in the dignity and work of the

human person, in the equal rights of men and women and of nations

large and small.

Assist us as we seek to establish conditions under which justice and

respect may flourish. May we find ways to promote social progress

and better standards of life in freedom for all.

                                (Prayer adapted from the Preamble to the

                                Charter of the United Nations)

Gabrielle,

for JPIC Team