I’ve written before in these Notes about how our democracy relies on our formed and informed involvement.
The next question flowing from this is what to do about it. How do we act upon what we know so we can make a difference?
This is not a simple question because it depends on where each person is in their life. Not everyone is able to do the same things.
It’s important to recognise there are many ways to be active in the world, and to support the activity of others.
Some people pray. Others read the news and reserve their involvement for the ballot box. Some join political parties or activist associations or particular campaigns. Others focus on giving money. Some focus on gaining that clarity of understanding so necessary to make a meaningful impact.
All these approaches are important and contribute to bringing about the common good.
Community
One way to be active and to support the activity of others is through local groups.
Sometimes called district groups or action groups, they meet over a cuppa in someone’s house to pray, talk, and act.
All the groups are different. They have their own traditions and approaches. They typically meet once a month and have their own format.
Some are formal in their approach. Some are more freeform. Some emphasise discussion and understanding, others direct action and contacting politicians.
I have visited some groups that spend an hour or so emailing or handwriting letters to politicians. Others discuss the general concerns of the week in federal or state politics, church or the local council or electorate.
Others follow a routine agenda, reporting back on their individual efforts over the preceding month. Some groups start with a daily scripture reading and discussion.
Some groups date back decades. Others are more recent.
Momentum
One of their most interesting features is they are self-starting and largely self-maintaining.
What keeps them going is the community they build. These groups foster personal connections and affirm the dignity of everyone involved. The members care about the ups and downs of life. They look out for each other.
The works of The Movement are geared around forming and informing people so they can more effectively contribute to Australian democracy.
The Thomas More Centre, News Weekly, YPAT and the Democratic Clubs all play a part in bringing people together and helping them to understand what is going on and what they can do about it.
They provide central points of reference for everyone, and shared experiences that people can draw from. They also, importantly, provide a shared community so people know they’re not alone.
The Movement has done this for decades and will continue to do so, God willing, for decades to come.
As we continue our work, we need your help to make it flourish.
Help us build communities that stand the test of time by subscribing to our flagship publication, praying for the success of this work and/or donating to various projects.
