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

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...
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...
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:...
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...