History of the Latin America Task Force

1989 The parish proclaims its five year Goals and Priorities. The three priority
areas include Worship, Education, and Social Justice. Under the Social Justice area the parish states its goal is “to assist the parish in recognizing that the pursuit of justice and alleviation of human suffering are an integral part of the gospel.”

1990 The Social Justice Commission is formed and develops it’s strategic plan.

1991 The Social Justice Commission establishes the Central American Task.
Force to: promote awareness and create opportunities for involvement in Central American issues, so that 1. Both communities gain a mutual understanding and appreciation of the practicality and the role of spirituality in each other’s lives. 2. St. John’s parish will work for the promotion of social justice in Central America,”

1992 Central America Task Force (CATF) sponsors several public events, does some self education.

1993 CATF contacts a parish in Guatemala and seeks to move ahead with a
sister parish relationship. CATF hopes to get the school involved.

1995 Pastoral Council promulgates new five year goals. Council states that
“We continue to be called by our faith to look beyond our own lives, to reach out to be with those who are suffering and to right injustices….” The council went on to state: “The parish responds in faith when more and more parishioners are aware of the bond that unites the global human family and particularly our responsibility to the poor.”

1996 Social Justice and Christian Service Commission discusses shifting focus
to Peru due to difficulties in communication with Guatemala and because of local contacts with Peru. A newly reconstituted Latin America Task Force begins to study the feasibility of pursuing a relationship with the Altiplano area of Peru. The Missions Office, Fr. Bloom, Peruvian Consul, the Latin America Relief Foundation and Maryknoll offer assistance.

1997 Pope John Paul II calls a synod of North, Central, and South American
Bishops. He urges greater cooperation among the Americas. Latin America Task Force organized fact-finding mission to Peru.