CAMDEN, N.J. — Russell Testa began his visits to the Provincial ministries by coming to St. Anthony of Padua Church and school here on April 17 and 18. He also visited Francis House, the facility for area residents suffering with HIV/AIDS that is adjacent to the property.
Russ, who is director of HNP’s Office for Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation, spoke with students, staff, the friars, and parishioners about how the Province helps to promote the justice, peace and integrity of creation efforts at St. Anthony’s. He said that he can also help to get updates on the JPIC activity in the parish. In particular, he shared the upcoming plans for a province-wide Franciscan Peacemaking training slated for this fall.
In addition, the status of ministry twinning and community investment was conveyed to the Camden audience. Russ shared the status of comprehensive immigration reform legislation and the prospect for legislation to curb global warming.
Russ, whose office is at the Washington Theological Institute, will be visiting Holy Name ministries through the coming months to provide a progress update to both the friars and their partners in ministry (PIMs) about the JPIC resolutions passed at Chapter 2005.
After visiting Camden, Russ went to Philadelphia and made a stop in Wilmington, Del. In the next weeks, Russ will be in New York City and will also visit the Carolinas as well as the New England HNP ministries.
Jud, shown at right in photo, is pastor and guardian of St. Anthony of Padua parish.