Option for the Poor and Vulnerable

“The Church’s love for the poor is inspired by the Gospel of the Beatitudes, by the poverty of Jesus and his love for the poor.” Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church, #184

Migrant receives assistance emphasizing importance of assisting poor and vulnerableDiscover a powerful collection of resources focused on the Catholic Social Teaching principle of the preferential option for the poor and vulnerable. This principle calls individuals and communities to prioritize the needs of society’s most marginalized members, recognizing their dignity and working toward justice and equity.

On this page, you’ll find:

  • Prayers and Reflections: Spiritual resources to inspire compassion and solidarity with the poor and vulnerable in light of Gospel values.
  • Lesson Plans and Educational Materials: Engaging tools for teaching about economic justice, human dignity, and the Church’s call to uplift those in poverty.
  • Multimedia Content: Videos, articles, and infographics that highlight the lived realities of marginalized communities and the Church’s response to their struggles.
  • Advocacy Guides: Practical resources for promoting policies, actions, and systems that prioritize the well-being of the poor and address systemic injustices.

These resources provide educators, faith leaders, and advocates with the tools to reflect on their role in creating a just society where the needs of the poor are met with compassion and action. Rooted in Catholic Social Teaching, they inspire a deeper commitment to walking with the vulnerable and advocating for systemic change.

As this cross shines, backed by sunlight in the face of darkness in this cave remember to embrace your suffering. Just as Jesus did before he could reach his eternal light.
Prayer

Prayer: The Way Toward Easter

Praying toward Easter, we are mindful of global conflict, climate injustice, asylum seekers on the move, and walking with those who suffer. We look toward placing our hope in the Risen Christ.
Activity

A Peculiar Letter and MLK Jr.

Through a fictional letter from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to the Beloved Community of the 21st century, consider how you are being called to justice within your communities.  Commemorate Black...
Activity

Injustice in the Holy Land

Examine the history of Israel-Palestine which includes the areas of places like Bethlehem, Nazareth, and Jerusalem. Learn about what led to the brutal attack on October 7, 2023 by Hamas, and spend...
Activity

Sr. Norma Pimentel, M.J. Keynote Reflection

This 2023 Ignatian Family Teach-In for Justice (IFTJ) keynote guide offers an opportunity to delve into the address of Sr. Norma Pimentel (Executive Director, Catholic Charities, Rio Grande Valley)....
Activity

Advent Journaling

Advent Journaling for Young People - Prepare the Way and celebrate Advent with daily journaling prompts. Reflect on the themes of hope, peace, love, and joy. This Advent resource was created for use...
Book Discussion Guide

Christmas Carol

Hope for the Holidays is designed as a light-hearted and approachable tool for people to navigate their feelings of hopelessness by widening their vision towards the common good in society and the...
Reflection

Miguel Pro

Fr. Miguel Agustín Pro, S.J., celebrates his feast day on November 23. Pro centered his life around supporting those who were poor and vulnerable. He supported them through the sacraments and with...
Activity

Tattoos on the Heart Excerpt

This text selection is meant to be read alongside Tattoos on the Heart. The Power of Boundless Compassion, written by Fr. Greg Boyle, S.J.  The text is an excerpt from Chapter 3: “Compassion”....
Prayer

Mass for Creation

Catholic Climate Covenant created a mass template that can be used to uplift care for creation. This Mass guide offers hope in the midst of the climate crisis.
Activity

CRS Global Food Update Discussion Guide

In Summer 2023, CRS published a update on the impact of our global food crisis. Through the lens of the pastoral circle, the discussion guide walks participants through questions, prayer, and ideas...
Prayer

Prayer As We Keep Vigil

In observance of Respect Life Month each October, utilize this prayer for abolishing the death penalty. It was written in collaboration with Catholic Mobilizing Network for their monthly First Friday...
Reflection

Synod Reflection Guide

Catholic Mobilizing Network assembled a handful of presenters in winter 2022 to discuss what restorative justice practices can inform the Synod on Synodality. The conversation offered a view of the...