Call to Community, Family, and Participation

“The person is not only sacred but also social. How we organize our society—in economics and politics, in law and policy—directly affects human dignity and the capacity of individuals to be supported and strengthened, not undermined. We believe people have a right and a duty to participate in society, seeking together the common good and well-being of all, especially the poor and vulnerable.”

United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, “Call To Family, Community, And Participation

Family gathered around a beautifully set table for a festive Christmas dinner celebration.

How are we called to Family, community, and Participation?

Relationships call us to solidarity with our families and the people in our local, state, national, and global communities.

Delve into a comprehensive collection of resources dedicated to the Catholic Social Teaching themes of community, family, and participation. These materials highlight the essential role of families and communities in fostering human dignity and promoting the common good. They also emphasize the importance of active engagement in shaping a just and equitable society.

Resources for the Call To Family, Community, And Participation

  • Spiritual Reflections and Prayers: Insights grounded in Scripture and Church teaching to inspire reflection on the value of community and family.
  • Educational Tools: Lesson plans and activities designed to explore the significance of family, civic participation, and communal solidarity.
  • Multimedia Resources: Videos, articles, and infographics that illustrate how Catholic Social Teaching calls us to strengthen families and build inclusive communities.
  • Advocacy Guides: Practical steps to encourage participation in civic life and support policies prioritizing families’ and communities’ well-being.

These resources empower educators, faith leaders, and advocates to deepen their understanding of community and family as the foundation of society. By integrating these principles into daily life, individuals and communities can actively contribute to a more just, compassionate, and participatory world.

Film Discussion Guide

Abbott Elementary S1 E1

This discussion guide for the first season (episode 1) of Abbott Elementary allows individuals to reflect on the episode through the inclusion lens. Abbott Elementary is a mockumentary-style...
Film Discussion Guide

Upgrade Your Concept of God

This guide to the 2024 Ignatian Family Teach-In for Justice (IFTJ) allows one to explore Sr. Peggy O’Neill’s keynote address, where she shares inspiring stories and offers encouragement to become...
Film Discussion Guide

Movie Review: Elemental

Elemental tells the story of a Pixar animated film set in a vibrant city where residents live together in fire, water, land, and air. The story follows Ember, a tough and fiery young woman, and...
Reflection

Canticle of Zechariah: Advent Reflection (English & Spanish)

This reflection uses the words of the Canticle of Zechariah and draws on photos and music to spread a message of hope and compassion in this Advent season. Prepare your heart for the Advent season...
Prayer

A Christmas Prayer

Phillip Berrigan's prayer serves as a reminder that the sins of war and the arms trade continue to exist and shatter the lives of God’s people and creation. Like Berrigan, let us refuse to be...
Prayer

Christmas Prayer: Help Us See You

"Christmas Prayer: Help Us See You" offers a prayer focused on recognizing Christ in the world, especially in those who are marginalized or suffering. The prayer encourages reflection on how we can...
Prayer

Black Catholic History Month Prayer

Prayer for Black Catholic History Month This prayer to Our Lady of Africa expresses gratitude for her guidance, especially for members of the African diaspora, during Black Catholic History Month....
Activity

Classroom Listening Circle Post Elections

Facilitate a co-created post-election Listening Circle to provide a respectful space for students to share feelings and perspectives. Through guided prompts, prayer, and consensus-building, students...
Prayer

Keeping Christ’s Promise Prayer

Praying for Native American Heritage Month, we reflect on the Native American and Indigenous Peoples who have come before us and on whose land many of us live. We pause to recognize the harm forced...
Reflection

Called to Dismantle Polarization

After elections, it's easy to fall into polarized camps, but this leads to division and distracts from the true Christian mission of compassion and unity. Pope Francis urges believers to...
Prayer

Petitions for an Election Year

These petitions invite us to pray for all members of our communities, especially those impacted by the decisions we make. Together, let’s continue to uphold the dignity of every person as we...
Bulletin Insert

Bulletin Insert - Racial Justice and U.S. Elections (revised)

The crisis of inequality creates deep divisions between people and communities, despite progress in reducing extreme poverty. Rising wealth inequality, especially impacting women, Indigenous peoples,...