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.

Reflection

Working to Overcome Food Insecurity

This resource shares insights into working at a local food bank and things to consider about one's community and where help is needed.
Prayer

Prayerfully Reading the News

Prayerfully Reading the News  shares an opportunity that can help the reader consume media and news in thoughtful ways.
Fact Sheet & Handout

An Antidote to Despair Discussion Guide

A discussion guide that walks through an article from Commonweal Magazine highlighting Paul Farmer and his theology of accompaniment. The article, "An Antidote to Despair" ran in February 2022.
Reflection

Catholic Social Teaching: Rooted and Renewing

The Catholic Social Teaching: Rooted and Renewing reflection invites us to consider how consciously making daily decisions from the perspective of CST, in solidarity with all those who suffer and all...
Fact Sheet & Handout

Education for Justice 2022 Summer Reading List

These recommendations for summer reading are organized by spiritual reading, non-fiction, and fiction. These works are connected to one or more themes of Catholic Social Teaching and highlight...
Reflection

Reflection: From Service to Kinship

Fr. Gregory Boyle has worked with young adults in the barrio of Los Angeles for over three decades. He founded Homeboy Industries, and he discusses the concept of kinship in much of his speaking and...
Resources to pray through Holy Thursday during Lent through the lens of Catholic Social tradition and justice
Video

Video 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. Access a handout with...
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...
Reflection

Pope Francis' 2022 World Day of Peace Message

Pope Francis' 2022 World Day of Peace Message discusses themes of intergenerational encounter, education, and work as integral components to build paths to peace. The reflection summarize's Pope...
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 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...