The Boston Faith & Justice Network is a community of Christians committed to alleviating poverty and promoting just stewardship.
We believe that over-consumption and unjust consumption may just be emptying our bank accounts, exhausting the world’s dearest resources, and fueling the exploitation of the most vulnerable. Something must change inside our souls and in our communities to set things right. So, together,we are taking these steps.
1. Live Gratefully. Many of us have lost track of how much is actually enough. We make promises to buy less, but these promises are hard to keep. The BFJN organizes small groups that support each other in spending less, buying justly, and giving collectively. It all begins with giving thanks.
2. Change our Community. All around us, advertising urges “buy more!” What if our community reflected a different set of values: respect and dignity for people and creation. The BFJN is seeking to make ours a more just community, starting by increasing Fair Trade in neighborhoods throughout Boston and beyond.
3. Advocate. Good policies enable people to steward and enjoy God’s blessings together. Good policies include the interests of those who are the poor at the highest levels of decision-making – not just those who are rich and powerful. The BFJN partners with organizations like the Micah Challenge to advocate for policies we believe will make a difference in the lives of those who are poor.
Who we are
The BFJN is a member-led, Christian organization, founded in 2006, sponsored by the Emmanuel Gospel Center, and based in Greater Boston. If you’d like to get involved as an individual or as part of a church or organization or simply learn more, please email us at members [at] bostonfaithjustice.org.
Staff
Ryan Scott McDonnell, Executive Director
Ryan has a deep belief that Christians should be at the forefront of justice movements supporting the poor and the oppressed. Ryan has worked with humanitarian non-profit organizations in Liberia, South Africa and the United States. Before coming to BFJN, Ryan managed a federally-funded program to integrate refugees in to Boston and surrounding areas. Ryan has a Masters degree in international development from the University of the Witwatersrand in South Africa and is an active public speaker and consultant on micro finance and refugee related issues. You can reach Ryan through email ryan[at]bostonfaithjustice.org or Twitter @ryansmcdonnell
Julie Fahnestock, Program Director
Julie oversees the use of the Lazarus at the Gate curriculum with churches and small groups in Boston and beyond. Although the Florida coast will always be her home, Julie is learning to love city life and the diversity that it brings. Julie is currently pursuing an MBA in Managing for Sustainability and has previously worked for numerous social justice non-profits including the International Justice Mission UK and Starlight Ministries. She is passionate about labor rights and fair wages and she desires that the Church be a voice for those without. You can reach Julie through email at julie[at]bostonfaithjustice.org
Advisory Board
Dean Borgman, Professor of Youth Ministries, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary
Bart Campolo, Founder and Chaplain, Mission Year
Nathan George, Founder and CEO, Trade as One
Dr. Paul D. Hanson, Professor, Harvard Divinity School
Dr. Rodney Petersen, Executive Director, Theological Institute
Ruth Padilla DeBorst, President, Latin American Theological Fellowship
Dr. Eldin Villafane, Professor, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary
Robert Zachritz, Director of Advocacy and Government Relations, World Vision