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.

1_Cover Image_1.jpg
Creative Voice

A Call to Organizing and Activism: Learning From the Tree of Subsidiarity

Creative Voice Anthony Giancatarino offers a personal reflection on how to overcome the fatigue of community organizing through subsidiarity. He suggests that instead of “doing something for...
Prayer_Community Organizers.jpg
Prayer

With Gratitude for Community Organizers and Community Builders

We pray in gratitude for community organizers and community workers who believe in the extraordinary potential of “ordinary” people whose voices must be heard and respected.  

Lights, Camera, Advent!

In many ways, Advent unfolds as a film would. Creative Voice and former EFJ intern, Angel Mortel, works with Brave New Films producing social justice documentaries. “We go through Advent with the...

Catholic Social Thought and Advocacy

In this reflection, Fr. Fred Kammer offers some focused advice on discerning the best strategies for advocacy work.

Celebrating Thanksgiving with Lidia Bastianich

Once again, Lidia shares recipes for Thanksgiving! She invites us to gather together at the table and enjoy good food, family, and friends. Through food, we can nourish our bodies, come together as a...
moonlight.jpg
Film Discussion Guide

Moonlight

Moonlight is the coming-of-age story of a young Black man in Miami, Florida, who struggles to fit in and understand his sexuality and identity while dealing with a tumultuous family life.
Lectionary Reflection

Christmas [a] December 25, 2016

Christmas [a] December 25, 2016 ADD DISCRIPTION
One purple candle is lit alone with dripping wax falling onto the purple background, the light a symbol of Jesus's coming
Lectionary Reflection

Fourth Sunday of Advent [a] December 18, 2016

Fourth Sunday of Advent [a] December 18, 2016 ADD DISCRIPTION
Film Discussion Guide

Crash

The film Crash follows several individuals in the city of Los Angeles as they confront and are confronted with prejudice, racism, and acts of injustice. This discussion guide includes a summary,...
Lectionary Reflection

Second Sunday of Lent [c] February 21, 2016

Second Sunday of Lent [c] February 21, 2016
Lectionary Reflection

First Sunday of Lent [c] February 14, 2016

First Sunday of Lent [c] February 14, 2016
Lectionary Reflection

Second Sunday in Ordinary Time [c] January 17, 2016

Second Sunday of Ordinary Time [c] January 17, 2016