NADJPCC Annual Meeting: We Incarnate Preaching by Our Very Lives
“We incarnate preaching by our very lives. This is our mission; this is our being.” This theme framed the North American Dominican Promoters for Justice, Peace, and the Integrity of Creation Annual Meeting, held June 29–July 2 in Adrian, Michigan. Surrounded by thoughtful prayer, song, reflection – and, of course, social hours – we were invited to slow down, listen deeply, and discern what is ours to do in this moment.
We began by hearing from our International Dominican family, moving from the global view to our local ecosystem. We heard updates from the DSIC, including exciting plans for a new JPIC newsletter and formation opportunities. We were reminded that, although justice issues vary across the world – from migration to climate change, war, and gender-based violence – we are one Dominican family responding together.
Aligned with our theme, we reflected on Tony Harris’, OP reminder that “working for justice is not optional, nor is it simply a dimension of our lives. Rather, it is a dynamic perspective that informs both our being and our doing.” Aniedi Okure, OP, reminded us of our justice roots in the Salamanca Process, which laid the foundation for what is known today as international law and ultimately influenced the development of the United Nations. As Dominicans, we have a long history of speaking truth in ways that can transform society.
Our keynote speaker, Fr. Gerard Timoner III, OP, Master of the Order, challenged us to remember that every member of the Dominican Family is a preacher. We are always preaching – not only at mass, but through the witness of our daily lives. As I listened, I reflected on our justice ministry: Living our justice mission – in every interaction – may be one of the most important contributions we can make in our world today.
The meeting also highlighted one of the most pressing justice issues of our time: immigration enforcement. Dylan Corbett of the Hope Border Institute, located in El Paso, TX, USA, offered an important perspective on the history of border enforcement at the US/Mexico border and its impact on communities like El Paso, Texas. He described borders as places where human dignity is contested and reminded us that sustained public pressure – including the witness of faith leaders – continues to make a difference…And who doesn’t need a little good news these days?
During our breakout sessions, we reflected on how justice promoters can strengthen our shared witness. One theme surfaced repeatedly: storytelling. Stories connect to people’s hearts and build empathy in ways that statistics alone cannot. We also explored how we might better “speak with one voice” on justice issues while honoring the unique ministries of each congregation.
As always, we also looked ahead. We celebrated collaborative projects from the past year and began planning for those to come, including the 10th Dominican Month of Peace focusing on Mexico, continued work on Silent Voices, Big Truths, reflections connecting the United States’ 250th anniversary with Dominican values, education on the Salamanca Process, and more.
I left Adrian feeling rejuvenated and grateful for the opportunity to gather with Dominican friends who tirelessly show up, asking what more we can do together. At a time when the needs of our world can feel overwhelming, our gathering was a powerful reminder that we do not carry our justice mission alone. Together, we continue to incarnate preaching by our very lives.
Article written by Jessica Eimer Bowen, Promoter of Justice for the Dominican Sisters of Grand Rapids, Michigan
