As Ukrainian Catholics, the call to engage in social mission is deeply ingrained in the teachings of the Church. Fortunately, there are resources available to support this mission, guiding on issues ranging from justice and peace to environmental stewardship. In this article, we explore four valuable resources that empower Ukrainian Catholics to actively contribute to the integral development of individuals and communities.
1. Dicastery for Human Development: A Vatican Initiative
The Vatican’s Dicastery for Human Development is a cornerstone for Catholics seeking to align their actions with the Gospel and the Social Doctrine of the Church. This Dicastery addresses key issues such as justice, peace, creation care, disarmament, human rights, and more. By offering news, events, projects, and resources, the Dicastery serves as a hub for staying informed and engaged in various areas of social development. Explore the richness of their initiatives at Dicastery for Human Development.
2. Development and Peace — Caritas Canada: A Global Movement for Solidarity
Development and Peace — Caritas Canada, the official international development organization of the Catholic Church in Canada, provides a platform for global solidarity rooted in Catholic Social Teaching. As a member of Caritas Internationalis, a global confederation of over 160 Catholic organizations, they offer a democratic movement with over 12,500 members across Canada. Their initiatives focus on sustainable development, humanitarian aid, and social justice. Learn more about their impactful work at Development and Peace.
3. Laudato Si’ Movement: Inspiring Climate and Ecological Justice
Named after Pope Francis’s encyclical, Laudato Si’, this movement is on a mission to inspire and mobilize the Catholic community for climate and ecological justice. Embracing the distinctive theme of “care for our common home,” the movement actively engages in various initiatives, such as LS Animators, LS Week, LS Circles, and LS Generation. Rooted in Catholic Social Teaching, Laudato Si’ Movement collaborates with all people of goodwill to address environmental challenges. Explore their transformative initiatives at Laudato Si’ Movement.
4. Social Mission Commission of the Eparchy of Edmonton: Localized Support for Ukrainian Catholics
The Social Mission Commission of the Eparchy of Edmonton, rooted in the gospel of Jesus Christ, is a vital resource for Ukrainian Catholics in Alberta, offering localized support and information on social justice initiatives. Mandated to affirm, inspire, and enable the community to work towards a just and loving world, the commission provides education, support, and guidance for addressing social justice issues both locally and globally. Their website serves as a central hub at Social Mission Commission, offering resources and updates that empower Ukrainian Catholics within the Eparchy of Edmonton to actively engage in creating positive change in their immediate community and beyond.
These resources provide Ukrainian Catholics with powerful tools to fulfill their social mission. By aligning with the Vatican’s Dicastery for Human Development, engaging in global solidarity through Development and Peace — Caritas Canada, and actively participating in the Laudato Si’ Movement, Ukrainian Catholics can contribute to justice, peace, and the protection of our common home. Let these resources be a source of inspiration and guidance as we collectively strive for a more just, compassionate, and sustainable world.