BUILDING EFFECTIVE PARISH SOCIAL MINISTRY TEAMS

Building a successful parish-based social ministry effort of the kind envisioned in “Communities of Salt and Light” requires tapping each and every able Catholic’s baptismal call to serve. There is much ministry to do but the good news is that there are plenty of baptized sisters and brothers to invite to participate. One important challenge is to create an effective structure for carrying out this important work. 

COMMUNITIES OF SALT AND LIGHT: REFLECTIONS ON THE SOCIAL MISSION OF THE PARISH

Important document from USCCB on parish social ministry: “We offer a framework for integration rather than a specific model or new national program. We seek to affirm and encourage local parish commitment and creativity in social ministry. We know pastors and parish leaders do not need another program to carry forward or more expectations to meet. We see the parish dimensions of social ministry not as an added burden, but as a part of what keeps a parish alive and makes it truly Catholic. Effective social ministry helps the parish not only do more, but be more more of a reflection of the gospel, more of a worshiping and evangelizing people, more of a faithful community. It is an essential part of parish life.” Click here to view the full report.

PARISH SOCIAL MINISTRY TOOL KIT

Catholic Charities crafted an excellent resource for any parish who seeks to engage social issues and Catholic Social Teaching. Especially if you are a parish representative for life, justice, and peace, we encourage you to find practical methods and resources for an engaging active ministry that does the work of Christ for the least. 

A PARISH OUTREACH, EDUCATION, AND ORGANIZING MANUAL IN SUPPORT OF THE JUSTICE OF IMMIGRANTS CAMPAIGN (USCCB)