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.

Twenty-ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time [b] October 18, 2015

Lectionary Reflection
Twenty-ninth Sunday of Ordinary Time [b] October 18, 2015
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The Way

Film Discussion Guide
This resource is a discussion guide for The Way, starring Martin Sheen. The film follows the journey of a father who walks the Camino de Santiago, a traditional pilgrimage route, in memory of his...
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Prayer for Those in Poverty

Prayer
This prayer seeks to open hearts and minds to respond to the needs of those living in poverty so that all may have peace and dignity in their lives.  

A Pilgrimage of Mercy and Communion

Reflection
Reflect with EFJ as we celebrate our theme for this year: A Pilgrimage of Mercy and Communion. Pause for a moment to give thanks for our common call to walk with each other in a spirit of mercy and...

International Public Service Day: Hearts and Hands for Others, June 23

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International Public Service Day honors federal, state, and municipal employees around the globe. Use your heart and hands to give to others by serving in your community. Here are some...

The Crucified Christ in Our Midst

This reflection invites us to “take notice” of the Crucified Christ in our midst and the pressing needs, and concerns facing our sisters and brothers throughout our...
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Christmas Prayer: Help Us See You

Prayer
This prayer for the Christmas season invites us to respond to the signs of the times and to see the Christ Child in the sick, the wounded, the oppressed, and the vulnerable.  

World Mission Day (October 19)

Pope Francis reminds us that we all can bring Christ and His message to a wounded world by our willingness to embody the joy and compassion of his Good News.  

World Food Day (October 16)

A guide to help us focus on the problem of hunger in the world and to help us take part in World Food Day through education, advocacy, and prayer.  

Prayer Service for World Food Day (October 16)

Prayer Service
This prayer service provides facts on the current state of hunger in the world as well as helps us reflect on the Scriptural basis of the call to feed those who are hungry. It offers participants an...

Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking

Prayer Service
June 26 is the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. The effort is an ongoing commitment to strengthen cooperation and action against drug trafficking and abuse around...