Called to Witness and Proclaim: A Pastoral Letter to Families on Evangelization and Catechesis
In September 2024, during the Plenary Assembly of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB), Archbishop Brian Dunn, Chairman of the Commission for Evangelization and Catechesis, introduced a powerful and timely pastoral letter to families titled Called to Witness and Proclaim. This letter addresses the vital role families play in evangelization and faith formation in today’s world.
Rooted in Scripture and Church teaching, Called to Witness and Proclaim encourages families to see their homes as domestic churches—places where faith is lived, nurtured, and passed on through everyday moments of love, conversation, prayer, and witness. The letter affirms the beauty and challenge of raising children in the Catholic faith and offers practical insights into making catechesis part of daily family life.
Recognizing Canada’s linguistic and cultural diversity, the Permanent Council of the CCCB approved the initial letter in English and suggested that it also be translated into French. Taking this one step further, Bishop David Motiuk, Eparch of Edmonton, arranged for a Ukrainian translation of the pastoral letter to be made available. This initiative reflects the unique contributions of Eastern Catholics in Canada and ensures that Ukrainian Catholic families can reflect on and engage with this important message in their own language and tradition.
The letter also invites parishes and faith communities to walk alongside families in this mission of evangelization, offering them support, encouragement, and catechetical tools rooted in the richness of the Catholic faith.
We encourage all families, catechists, and parish leaders to read Called to Witness and Proclaim, reflect on its message, and use it as a resource in nurturing faith at home and within the community.
Let Us Proclaim Together
As we move forward in our shared mission of evangelization, may this letter inspire our families to live as joyful witnesses of Christ’s love in the world. Whether in moments of quiet prayer, family meals, or community outreach, every household has the grace-filled opportunity to proclaim the Gospel.
Download PDF Letter Here
Download Letter in Eng
