It's time again to consider civil disobedience. When does it have power and meaning? Is it ever effective? What elements go into the planning? What are the penalties, and what are the benefits?

Benebikira 'Sister Listeners' offer informal counseling to both victims and perpetrators of the violence during the Rwanda genocide, seeking to forge a bridge of understanding. Their roles as listeners are especially important during the anniversary of the genocide.

Indian theologian Kochurani Abraham was a member of the Handmaids of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, but "an ideological gap" led her to leave: "The critical feminist sensibilities I had developed over the years made me see God, human relations, the church and mission in a different light."

A series of meetings requested by the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights started in Panama this week to address the problem of human rights violations against environmental activists in the country.

"My biggest takeaway from working with the sisters would far and away be the amount of happiness and smiles that can be shared. The sisters' life calling is to help those in most need. It is not a chore, but something they are happy to do and look forward to each day. I love volunteering, and this trip offered me everything I wanted in the span of just one week. I was happy to sign up and come along for the adventure."

Notes From the Field -  I was most drawn to the social justice tenet of the Good Shepherd Volunteers program. But my passion to hit the ground running came up against a pretty big wall upon my arrival to Chile.

No one thinks it will be easy to pressure nuclear states, but public support for disarmament can be built over time, peace activists argue. "You can't think pressure won't make a difference," says Sr. Stacy Hanrahan. "It will."

"Peeking out from under, small signs shine with hope as we stand for the truth and light."

The Eighth Station is a fitting meditation for a cluster of my experiences in India that illustrate how church people continue to live this moment in the passion of Jesus — a moment of compassion.

Maryknoll Sr. Helen Graham was raised in New York but has served in the Philippines for the past 49 years, primarily teaching theology, often to religious in formation. "Studying theology and Scripture gives you a stronger foundation for what you're doing. You're not just a nun with a habit on."