History and Scope of Catholic Charities USA

CCUSA President and CEO Kerry Alys Robinson welcomes participants, followed by an inspiring history of the Catholic Charities movement in the United States.

Introduction to Catholic Social Doctrine

This session explores the history and theology of Catholic Social Teaching, including foundational documents, scriptural roots and practical application through key themes.

Theology of Parish Social Ministry

Learn how social ministry helps fulfill the mission of a parish, how moral decisions are made and how social ministry can be a tool for evangelization.

Communication Skills

Ministry happens through relationships. This session introduces one-to-one conversations, active listening skills and conflict management techniques to foster communication that best serves those seeking assistance.

Family: The Cell of Society

The family unit, society's building block, shapes beliefs, values and outlooks on life. This session explores societal trends impacting families, how family dynamics influence decision-making and how social ministers can form pastoral responses to the needs of families in their communities.

Understanding Poverty

Who lives in poverty in our communities? What challenges make it difficult to escape the cycle of poverty? In this session, participants deepen their understanding of poverty and explore how to formulate informed and empathetic responses.

Multicultural Ministry

This session presents an approach to parish social ministry that recognizes and honors both the similarities and differences among individuals, families and communities of different cultural backgrounds.

Global Solidarity

Loving our neighbor has global dimensions in an increasingly connected world. Learn how political and environmental changes disproportionately affect people experiencing poverty and how parishes can foster global solidarity.

Ethics of Parish Social Ministry

This session explores the ethical considerations of parish social ministry, including healthy boundaries, confidentiality and safe environment policies that affirm and protect both ministers and those they serve.

Parish-Based Community Organizing, Social Justice and Advocacy

This session highlights the differences between charity and justice and explores ways parish communities can work for justice. Topics include the basics of advocacy and an introduction to trusted resources.

Organizing and Administering Pastoral Programs

Learn best practices for leading social ministries, including volunteer training and management strategies, parish communications, establishing program policies and procedures, and managing relationships with partner organizations.