A Little Hope for the New Year

"But by faith we eagerly await through the Spirit the righteousness for which we hope." Galatians 5:5

On December 17th, Governor Corzine signed New Jersey's death penalty abolition bill into law. As a Catholic this reminded me that, ultimately, punishment and forgiveness rest in the hands of the Lord. As a peacemaker it provided me with a great feeling of hope.

Thank you to Celeste Fitzgerald and Lorry Post of New Jerseyans for Alternatives to the Death Penalty, who over a decade ago had faith that their efforts could end the use of capital punishment in New Jersey. As a result, this December in New Jersey, justice has won out over vengeance and love has prevailed over violence. With the New Year upon us, I can only imagine what may be possible now that we have little hope from what has been accomplished and great faith in the prospect for positive change.