The Japan Catholic Council for Justice and Peace has released a publication titled 50 Years of Justice and Peace, marking its 50th anniversary.
The volume compiles new articles and archival materials that document the Council’s activities since its establishment in 1974.
The Council was formed through the integration of initiatives by the bishops’ committee and the Catholic laity.
The 208-page book, printed in B5 format, outlines how the Council and the Catholic Church in Japan have engaged with social issues over the past five decades.
Bishop Wayne Berndt, President and Chief Bishop of the Council, contributed the introductory message. He acknowledged those who have supported the organization’s work since its founding.
“As the Japan Catholic Council for Justice and Peace reaches its 50th anniversary, we would like to express our gratitude to all those who have supported our journey to date,” Berndt wrote.
“First of all, we would like to thank God and his Church, who gave this organization a mission, to the predecessors who guided its establishment in Japan and its subsequent activities, and to all those who are currently involved in its management,” he added.
Berndt reflected on how the Second Vatican Council marked a shift in the Church’s understanding of its role in society.
He contrasted this with earlier views that positioned the Church as existing above the secular world and acting as its moral guide, often from a perceived position of superiority.
“However, the Second Vatican Council changed this, acknowledging that the Church is also a part of this world, and clearly stated its responsibility to walk with and play a part in world history,” he said.
He described the Council’s foundation as part of this shift, aimed at aligning the Church more closely with marginalized communities.
“In order to embody once again ‘God himself became man and walks with us,’ the Church established a department that stands by those at the bottom of society and walks with society on the path to ‘justice and peace.’”
Berndt called on members of the Church not to separate themselves from those they serve.
“Let us never preach the gospel from a position above society, but by humbling ourselves to the position of the poor and weak, and walking alongside them,” he said. “For that is the gospel of the Lord Jesus.”
