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Parish Social Ministry
Through prayer, education, direct service and advocacy.
Catholic Charities’ Parish Social Ministry works with parishes and programs to expand or deepen their social justice and outreach ministries and provide opportunities for the spiritual development of their members. We support parishes through outreach, education, and advocacy so that together we can transform communities.
Outreach
We help parishes connect with outreach opportunities in many ways. If you aren't sure where to start with Catholic Charities, reach out and we are happy to assist. If you want to browse on your own, visit our volunteer portal to view all listed service opportunities, or check out our list of in-kind donation needs.
Serve Baltimore
In collaboration with the Archdiocese of Baltimore Office of Family, Youth, and Young Adult Ministry, Serve Baltimore is a summer service week for high school youth groups. Serving alongside one another at different Catholic Charities sites, teens will dive into what it means to put faith in action through service.
Alternative Break
Catholic Charities is pleased to partner with college and university groups who want to serve in Baltimore for alternative break immersion trips. We invite you to join us any time of the year and allow us to take many logistics off your plate.
Break
Consultation
Whether you want more information on how to refer people for services, how to start a social ministry committee at your parish, or ways to integrate Catholic Social Teaching more into parish life, we are here to be a resource for you. We are always happy to talk!
Education
We offer a variety of educational resources for parishes, whether they are just starting a parish social ministry or have had one for years.
Parish Social Ministry Guidebook
Based upon the 1993 U.S. bishops’ statement, Communities of Salt and Light: Reflections on the Social Mission of the Parish, this guide is a resource on how to conceptualize and form a new parish social ministry team at your parish.
More
AWARE
AWARE is an interactive, hands-on educational program which guides participants to a better understanding of our region’s social issues and the impact they have on real people. AWARE sessions are offered at different Catholic Charities sites across the Baltimore region. Each session is unique and highlights a particular area of service and justice. AWARE sessions explore hunger and homelessness, aging, early childhood education & family strengthening, mental health in childhood, immigration, and disability.
Workshops and Speakers
Catholic Social Teaching 101: An introduction to the seven principles of Catholic Social Teaching. Explore how CST informs the work of Catholic Charities and how you can embody these principles through the life of your parish.
Intersections of Justice: Racial Justice and the Mission of Catholic Charities: A conversation on racial justice and how it is integral to our work in Maryland.
Other speakers: If your parish is interested in learning more about a particular social issue, Catholic Charities has a wealth of knowledge to share. Our staff who work directly in the field can speak on a number of our service areas, including mental health, poverty, hunger and homelessness, immigration, early childhood education, aging, and more.
Advocacy
Our call to social ministry means not only helping to provide for peoples’ immediate needs, but also addressing the root causes of poverty and inequality. Catholic Charities’ Advocacy team works to encourage state legislation and policies that directly benefit the people we serve in Maryland. Check out the resources below to get started.
Sarah McIlvried
Assistant Director of Social Ministry