One of my favorite New Testament stories is the parable of the sower, where we learn about how seeds flourish depending on the type of soil they fall on.  The scattering of seeds, knowing that some will dry up and blow away and others will take root and prosper, is a motivating image for me as CRS tries to spread the message of economic justice far and wide to U.S. Catholics.

This week CRS Fair Trade is at the Catholic Marketing Network trade show. Religious bookstores and schools come to the event to make purchases from publishers such as St. Benedict’s Press, iconic images, vestments and we hope, some day, Fair Trade items.  Offering samples of Equal Exchange coffee, chocolate, and snacks, a team of CRS Fair Traders- Dennis Fisher of the CRS-Northeast office, Global Fellows Msgr. Joe Ciampaglio  and Fr. Tom Fenlon, and Charitable Giving and Awareness staffer Rob Kearney, talked to Catholic business owners about CRS’s work in more than 100 countries and the power of Fair Trade.  Yesterday we were joined by Sr. Maureen McGowan, of Fair Trade Uniforms and Handcrafting Justice, who displayed unique handcrafted items from countries such as the Philippines.  Sr. Maureen’s organization is a member of the Fair Trade Federation, and we were also proud to distribute the FTF’s  “Does your Gift Shop Make Change” handout made possible in part through the Fair Trade Fund.

It is hard to know at these types of events what impact, if any, you are making.  Some people listen intently to why Fair Trade is important and how products will appeal to U.S. Catholics.  Others breeze by, picking up a bit of chocolate or two.  The vast majority of people politely pick up materials and walk away.

For me, though, the only thing better than talking directly to consumers is the chance to get away from my desk and be with colleagues.  Away from the cubicle, and with several hours together, you learn about the great work people are doing in ways large and small, hidden and popular.  You trade travel stories and favorite tales of producers who touched your heart.   You munch on yummy chocolate, and you feel so grateful to do work you love with people you care about.  Great colleagues and good times are not exclusive to the Fair Trade world, of course  But through the CRS network of fully committed Fair Trade companies, I’ve been blessed to know many good, dedicated people who make justice bloom for the disadvantaged and marginalized around the world! We are glad you are part of our work, and we look forward to some retail stores joining us.