Several Pax Christi state chapters are also celebrating major anniversaries this year, including Pax Christi Florida and Pax Christi Michigan.
Pax Christi Florida members gathered together in March for a retreat entitled, “Re-Imagining the Peace of Christ 2022: The Path to a Better Future”, facilitated by Mary Carter Waren. As part of the retreat, stories, photos and memories were shared in celebration of their 40th anniversary as a chapter. The retreat’s reflections revolved around Pope Francis’ book, Let Us Dream, and included panel discussions, small group reflection, prayer and music. Fr. Frank O’Loughlin was recognized with the Prophet of Peace Award for advocating unceasingly for the human rights of immigrants, in particular those immigrants suffering persecution and merciless violence and poverty in Central America.
See photos from the retreat at this link.
Pax Christi Michigan gathered in April for their 45th anniversary with a conference that included award recipients Bishop Thomas Gumbleton (Bishop-President, Emeritus of Pax Christi USA), Therese Terns (Purple Ribbon of Peace) and Lulu Nestor (Young Peace Activist Award, pictured left). The program’s theme was “Celebrate Peace” and included a video montage of photos from throughout their 45 years. The conference included keynote presentations by Johnny Zokovitch, Executive Director of Pax Christi USA, music and prayer, small group discussion, an action in support of the Weaving Threads of Peace project for Pax Christi USA’s 50th anniversary, and celebration of Pax Christi Michigan’s history.