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.

Catholic Social Teaching and the 2024 Elections, Part Three

Activity
In November 2024, Americans will elect new leaders, including the president and members of Congress. As people of faith, it's important to consider Catholic Social Teaching principles when voting....

Cabrini Discussion Guide

Film Discussion Guide
Cabrini brings to life the story of Mother Frances Xavier Cabrini, the patron saint of immigrants and the first U.S. citizen to be canonized. The film premiered in Spring...

Our Bodies are Nature Prayer

Prayer
Pray and celebrate all bodies that are made in the image and likeness of God.

"Water, Oil, Flame"

Book Discussion Guide
A discussion guide focused on Chapter 4 in Tattoos on the Heart that walks a student through the differences between Sacrament and sacrament in the context of the book.

Prayer to Reflect on the Great Migration

Prayer
Commemorate Black History Month in your classroom, parish, or community with activities, reflections, and prayers that span from civil rights history to current events.

Sr. Norma Pimentel, M.J. Keynote Reflection

Activity
This 2023 Ignatian Family Teach-In for Justice (IFTJ) keynote guide offers an opportunity to delve into the address of Sr. Norma Pimentel (Executive Director, Catholic Charities, Rio Grande Valley)....

Ellie Hidalgo Keynote Reflection

Film Discussion Guide
This 2023 Ignatian Family Teach-In for Justice (IFTJ) keynote guide offers an opportunity to delve into the address of Ellie Hidalgo, co-director of Discerning Deacons. Hidalgo’s talk amplifies the...

Advent Journaling

Activity
Advent Journaling for Young People - Prepare the Way and celebrate Advent with daily journaling prompts. Reflect on the themes of hope, peace, love, and joy. This Advent resource was created for use...

Everyday People

Prayer
Everyday People Prayer centers on the goodness and mercy people can access and practice daily. This prayer won the Catholic Social Teaching Month prayer and poem competition in the Diocese of...

Christmas Carol

Book Discussion Guide
Hope for the Holidays is designed as a light-hearted and approachable tool for people to navigate their feelings of hopelessness by widening their vision towards the common good in society and the...

Miguel Pro

Reflection
Fr. Miguel Agustín Pro, S.J., celebrates his feast day on November 23. Pro centered his life around supporting those who were poor and vulnerable. He supported them through the sacraments and with...

Tattoos on the Heart Excerpt

Activity
This text selection is meant to be read alongside Tattoos on the Heart. The Power of Boundless Compassion, written by Fr. Greg Boyle, S.J.  The text is an excerpt from Chapter 3: “Compassion”....