Turning Faith into Action: Pupils Respond to Dilexi Te

Tackling Poverty in Scotland: Responding to Dilexi Te brought together more than 30 pupils and teachers in Glasgow to explore how faith can be translated into meaningful action on poverty. Inspired by the publication of Pope Leo’s first apostolic exhortation Dilexi Te, which calls Christians to love the poor and work for the eradication of poverty, the event invited pupils to deepen their understanding of poverty in Scotland, Catholic Social Teaching, and in campaigning and advocacy.

The conference, organised by Justice & Peace Scotland (J&P Scotland) and the Society of St Vincent de Paul Scotland (SSVP Scotland), welcomed Senior Vinnies from the Archdioceses of Glasgow and the Diocese of Motherwell. Senior Vinnies are SSVP groups for pupils in secondary schools across Scotland.

The day began with an input from the Poverty Alliance, grounding pupils in key facts and statistics about poverty in Scotland. Real-life case studies brought these issues to life, while a household budgeting activity helped pupils grasp the daily challenges faced by those living on a low income.

Students then reflected on Dilexi Te and how Pope Leo calls on us to protect the marginalised and demand structural change to end poverty, before building practical
skills in advocacy and campaigning. They ended the day by working together to plan projects to deliver in their schools in partnership with SSVP Scotland and J&P Scotland.

Many thanks to Archbishop Nolan, President of J&P Scotland, who came along to meet the pupils and to Sister Maria Robb, the Spiritual Director for SSVP Scotland, who facilitated the opening prayers and led pupils in spiritual reflection on love and action for those experiencing poverty.

Though this was a pilot conference, it proved a real success: 100% of participants said they felt better equipped to take action on poverty in Scotland – a hopeful sign for the future!

Justice & Peace Scotland with SSVP Scotland and The Poverty Alliance, Schools Conference in the Eyre Hall, Archdiocese of Glasgow offices. Tuesday 3rd February 2026. Photo by and copyright of Paul McSherry 07770 393960 paulmcsherry2020@gmail.com @Paulmcsherry2