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.

Bulletin Insert

Catholic Social Teaching and the Death Penalty

Use this bulletin insert for education on how Catholic Social Teaching promotes an end to the death penalty and to learn how to advocate against this injustice.
Reflection

Film Discussion Guide: El Deportado

“El Deportado” is a short documentary that was created as a collaboration between faculty and students at Creighton University in Omaha, NE.  The documentary provides personal testimonies of...
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Book Discussion Guide

Kinship: Lessons from "Tattoos on the Heart"

Read an excerpt from the book "Tattoos on the Heart" to learn about the concept of kinship and reflect on its role in your own life using the provided discussion questions.   Photo Credit:...
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Prayer

Examen on Social Media

Social media can be used as a positive tool for justice and social change or can become an addiction or distraction if not used mindfully. This examen on social media provides space to reflect on how...
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Reflection

The Social Nature of the Human Person

The relational nature of God in the Trinity provides a model for humanity. In a time when social isolation is rampant, this resource analyzes the importance of kinship and community in work for...
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Film Discussion Guide

Coco

Coco tells the story of Miguel, a young musician who goes on a journey during Día de los Muertos. The rich symbolism and spiritual themes of death, self-discovery, family, and forgiveness are...
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Reflection

Catholic Social Thought and Politics

Fr. Fred Kammer reflects on the very relevant connection between Catholic social thought and politics in this timely resource.  
Reflection

Catholic Social Thought and Voting

Father Fred Kammer lays out key teachings on voting and political engagement. Reflection questions, faith in action, and a prayer are also included.  
Reflection

No Is Not Enough! Reflections on a Lifestyle of Resistance

In this reflection, Fr. Fred Kammer reminds us that resistance means saying “yes” to life as well as saying “no” to anything that devalues the human person.  
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Prayer

Prayer for Families at the Border

We pray to end the tragic, terrible nightmare of children ripped from their parents embrace at the U.S./Mexico border.  
Activity

Learning to Live Gospel Nonviolence

M.J. and Jerry Park, co-founders of the non-profit organization Little Friends for Peace, share their reflections and tools on living Gospel Nonviolence. This resource includes practical strategies...
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Reflection

Catholic Social Thought and Prophetic Witness

We are called by the Church’s social teachings to become prophetic witnesses; this resource offers reflections on what this call means and how it is embodied today.