As we launch the March 2025 issue of ONE magazine, there is, as always, much happening in CNEWA’s world. Russia’s war against Ukraine has entered its fourth year. Palestinians continue to seek refuge from violent incursions in their occupied territories. And Pope Francis lies in a hospital in Rome in critical condition.
As we join the church in praying for Pope Francis, we are grateful that CNEWA, through its work with partners on the ground, has been able to bring to fruition one of the important themes throughout his papacy — his incessant call to reach out to those on the periphery.
The call of Pope Francis to serve those in the margins of society is part and parcel of the mission of CNEWA, and in this issue of ONE, you will read about how CNEWA continues to take this mission to heart by supporting:
- The work of the church in providing education, skills-training and economic development to India’s Adivasi, or Indigenous, communities.
- Health care in Syria, where medical infrastructure was decimated due to 13 years of civil war and a catastrophic earthquake.
- Pastoral initiatives in Ukraine, including counseling and care for children and their mothers, soldiers and their families, and those with special needs.
- Centers in Egypt that equip orphans, vulnerable youth and at-risk teens, whose choices have distanced them from their families, with the skills to set off on a new life journey.
As well, Msgr. Peter I. Vaccari, CNEWA president, contemplates how hope is CNEWA’s calling card in his reflection on the 2025 Jubilee of Hope.
This year also underlines the 1,700th anniversary of the First Ecumenical Council of Nicaea, which we underline with an essay by Atonement Father Elias Mallon, S.A., who outlines the purpose for the council and traces how the ecumenical movement developed, changing the meaning of the term “ecumenical” in the process.
As we continue to pray and await news about Pope Francis, we express gratitude for his years of prophetic witness in the regions where CNEWA works, renewing our spirit and our mission.