Parish Social Ministry
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is PSM In 1993 the US Bishops issued a document called Communities of Salt and Light. In it, they set forth a vision of the parish as a caring community, reaching out to those within its boundaries and beyond to alleviate human suffering, create a more just society and bring about the kingdom of God. This work “belongs to every believer and every parish. It cannot be assigned to a few or simply delegated to diocesan or national structure. The pursuit of justice and peace is an essential part of what makes a parish Catholic.”
Parish Social Ministry is the empowerment of a parish as the people of God to fulfill the Church’s mission of love, justice, freedom, and peace by communally responding in organized ways to societal and individual human needs.
(Parish Social Ministry: A Vision and Resource; a Catholic Charities Perspective, Catholic Charities USA)
What is Catholic Social Teaching?
The Church’s social teaching is a rich treasure of wisdom about building a just society and living lives of holiness amidst the challenges of modern society.
Catholic Social Teaching is a central and essential element of our faith. It is based on and inseparable from our understanding of human life and human dignity. Catholic Social Teaching is built on a commitment to the poor and vulnerable. It calls us all to reach out and to build relationships of compassion and justice. It calls us all to defend the dignity of life and build the common good. Below are the key themes that lie at the heart of our Catholic social tradition (Minnesota Conference of Catholic Bishops)
The call to charity and justice is rooted in the Scripture, particularly in the messages of the Old Testament prophets and in the words and life of Jesus. Throughout their history, the Israelites were learning how to live as God wanted people to live—in right relationship with one another and all creation.
To view the seven principles of Catholic Social Teaching, click here
Review the various opportunities offered, looking at the time commitment needed. Fill out and submit the Volunteer Interest Form. You will be contacted by the Coordinator of the specific ministry.
What is an Action Alert?An action alert is a message advising you of a specific legislative concern and providing you with the link to respond. You can sign up to receive these alerts or you can visit the sites and go to the action alert page. Either way you have the opportunity to respond. For more on action alerts click here.
