Responding to our missionary call to help those in need
The social doctrine of the Catholic Church is a rich treasure of wisdom. It guides us in our quest to build a just society and lead a life of holiness in the face of modern challenges. It is a call to unite for the common good, and our role in this mission is not only crucial but integral. One of the themes is The Option for the Poor and Vulnerable. This teaching invites us to fight for our society's most defenseless members and care for their needs.
The social doctrine of the Catholic Church is a rich treasure of wisdom. It guides us in our quest to build a just society and lead a life of holiness in the face of modern challenges. It is a call to unite for the common good, and our role in this mission is not only crucial but integral. One of the themes is The Option for the Poor and Vulnerable. This teaching invites us to fight for our society's most defenseless members and care for their needs.
In Matthew’s Gospel, Jesus says the greatest commandment is to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind, and to love our neighbor as ourselves. This invitation from Jesus is to love others unconditionally and generously. We exercise this commandment by showing our generosity to those who have less. When we unite to support the poorest in our communities, we can achieve great things.
The Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD) invites all of us to work together to eradicate poverty in our country. Through this campaign, which includes a special collection on Nov. 16-17, we join other dioceses across the U.S. to help those in need. The Diocese of Austin benefits as well because 25% of the funds collected in our parishes stays in the diocese to assist local organizations and groups.
Thanks to your generosity over the years in supporting the CCHD Special Collection, we have been able to help those most in need in the nation through the CCHD grant program. Each year, through a rigorous study and with the approval of the U.S. Bishops, national organizations are awarded grants to assist those most in need.
In our diocese, we have assisted various local organizations that help people stay out of poverty. In 2023, through CCHD grants, we assisted the following organizations. Community First! offers those living on the streets affordable and permanent housing. The Bishop John McCarthy Memorial Catholic Build for Habitat for Humanity builds a house for a deserving family every year. The JPII Life Center and St. Gabriel, Pregnant and Parenting Program continue their rental assistance program, which has helped several women, and their families avoid eviction. CCHD funds have also helped Annunciation Maternity Home and Our Lady of the Angels Shelter with resources that can assist them in continuing to serve pregnant women in crisis who need a place to live.
Thank you for your generous support
of the Catholic Campaign for Human Development. Every penny we invest in this campaign is an opportunity to continue these life-changing initiatives. Please remember to support the special collection for the campaign that is coming up on Nov. 16-17.
Luisa de Poo is the diocesan director of the Secretariat for Life, Charity and Justice. She can be reached at luisa-depoo@austindiocese.org.
