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.

Prayer

Prayer for Struggling Families

This prayer uplifts families around the world that are struggling in the face of uncertainty, racism, poverty, and violence. We pray to Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, the Holy Family, that our prayers...
Prayer

Prayers for Communities Joining the Laudato Si' Action Platform

Beginning on St. Francis Day 2021 (Oct. 4), Catholics are invited into 40-days of prayer leading up to the official launch of the Laudato Si' Action Platform (LSAP)on Nov. 14. The Dicastery for...
Prayer

Prayer in Times of Distress

We pray that God guide us through periods of distress toward a world of peace and justice. For all people who cry out in distress to our God, we pray that we have the courage and compassion to...
Prayer

Prayer on Inequities

This prayer calls us to bear witness to the many inequities that exist in our communities and around the world. We are invited to respond through our work for global justice and peace so that our...
Reflection

Solidarity Through Prayer Reflection

This resource explores the importance of prayer in sustaining commitment to solidarity and justice. Dorothy Day and Daniel Berrigan are highlighted as models of contemplatives in action.
Prayer Service

Servant Leaders Prayer Service

This prayer service can be used to help students reflect on their service experience and also provides a blessing and send-off for students who have participated in servant leadership during the past...
Prayer

Prayer for Holy Thursday

On Holy Thursday, we are called to see the face of Christ in all people and to bend in respect before the dignity of the other, as Jesus bent to wash the feet of his Apostles.   Discover...
Fact Sheet & Handout

Fratelli Tutti Infographics

The Vatican prepared these infographics to accompany the release of Pope Francis' third encyclical, Fratelli Tutti: On Fraternity and Social Friendship. They visually summarize key themes and points...
Film Discussion Guide

A Guide to Compassionate Conversations

Based on a video in partnership with Faith in Public Life, this guide details eight key components of compassionate conversations. Reflective questions and examples are provided to participants think...
Reflection

A CST Guide to a More Just Future

As people of faith who are called to hope, we can begin to imagine and plan for a better future even in this dark time. Catholic Social Teaching offers guidance as we ponder what kind of new world we...
Fact Sheet & Handout

Civil Rights Heroes Prayer Cards

Learn about heroes and activists from the Civil Rights Movement and pray for equity and reconciliation in our world today. These brief biographies are starting points to learn more about the lives of...
Book Discussion Guide

Book Review: The Time is Now

Sr. Joan Chittister's newest book reminds us that we are called to be prophetic in these dark times. As Christians, we are challenged to look ahead with hope and vision in a time when the temptation...