Faith Curriculum Library: Tapestry of Faith: Heeding the Call: A Program on Justicemaking for Junior High School Youth

Introduction

I do not want the peace that passeth understanding. I want the understanding which bringeth peace. — Helen Keller

The third workshop asks youth to reflect on the importance of understanding and explores different ways to attempt to understand. The story is about a young man coming to understand what life is like for people in a situation very different from his own. By hearing and discussing this first person account, youth increase their understanding. Other activities include listening to understand and experiencing the world the way others do in an attempt to understand one another's life. Participants are encouraged to see understanding as a justice issue and a crucial step toward creating a better world.

Goals

This workshop will:

  • Identify understanding as a quality needed to bring about a more just world
  • Encourage youth to increase their understanding of justice issues
  • Explore the meaning of "abilities"
  • Ask youth to consider their own abilities and the abilities of others
  • Reinforce the inherent worth and dignity of every person and all of their abilities (first Principle).

Learning Objectives

Participants will:

  • See a commitment to understanding as an important quality in justice-making
  • Practice different ways to gain understanding
  • Appreciate their own abilities and recognize that abilities are defined by society
  • Examine their preconceptions about "disabilities" and have the opportunity to revise them.