Chair of Catholic Social Services Victoria's Domestic Violence Working Group, Felicity Rorke has penned a letter to each parish priest in Victoria, urging them to "play a part" in a whole of Church approach to community awareness and prevention, and a just and compassionate response to violence in the home. The letter was sent to each parish priest along with a new poster that can be displayed in school or parish offices, or on community noticeboards. 

"Pope Francis is not afraid of calling out systems that drive oppression and exploitation, and unless these systems are recognised and exposed, confronted and dismantled, fundamental change will not occur. The change we need goes beyond national interests ..." We need a "globalisation of hope", which is "a hope that springs from people and takes root among the poor and must replace the globalisation of exclusion and indifference". Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv of Diocese of Parramatta challenged us at the national Catholic social services conference earlier this year, and his words continue to do so in the newly published book, Serving Community with Courage and Compassion.

CSSV's November eNewsletter is out now! With the Victorian Budget tabled only hours ago, this newsletter is full of latest news and information, upcoming events from Catholic Social Services Victoria and from our member network. We've also included links to the latest job opportunities that can be found within the Catholic social services sector. If you haven't already subscribed, be sure to do so here. 

World Children’s Day (November 20) is a timely reminder of the vulnerabilities of children and the need to ensure primary school aged children are in the playground – not in prison. Jesuit Social Services’ Worth A Second Chance campaign has just launched a new animated short film illustrated by Melbourne artist Ben Jelfs and narrated by Aboriginal author and activist Marlee Silva, highlighting the importance of keeping children connected with school, family and the community and the long-lasting damage that can be caused by contact with the justice system.