Random Acts of Kindness

A Reflection on the Violence Done to Youth

During September and October 2006 in Northern America we learned of stories that broke our hearts. School went back in session and young people were once again dealing with the tragic reality of guns and violence in their classrooms.

In just two short months we saw violence in Essex, Vermont, Montreal, Canada, Bailey, Colorado, Gazenovia, Wisconsin and Nickel Mines, Pennsylvania. Some of the victimizers were youth and some were adults. Sadly, the victims were youth as well as principals, teachers, and other adults who served young people.

Unfortunately, the saga of violence has escalated with the shootings and deaths at Virginia Tech in southwest Virginia, April 16, 2007. Thirty-three people were killed and twenty injured during this shooting rampage, making this the deadliest mass shooting in U.S. history. And again, on Valentine's Day 2008, gun shot reverberated in Cole Hall at Northern Illinois University in Dekalb, Illinois. Six students, including the shooter died.

Assist youth and your Catholic community by reflecting on the violence experienced in their lives and extend that reflection to pray for the victims of violence in our society.

Resources for Youth

Resources for Adult Leaders

Blessed Are the Peacemakers: A Lenten Session Encouraging Young People to Fast from Violence

Developed by the NFCYM, a two-hour session to lead young people to reflect on the many types of violence that exist in the world and in their lives today, culminating in a prayer experience inviting them to commit to fasting from violence during the season of Lent. Learn More…

 

Developed by

Mark Moitoza, Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Director and Kathy Carver, NFCYM.