We Are Catholic. Let It Show.

Back to the Chancery Page

The Communal Reality of Human Life

Father, I have given them the glory you gave me so that they may be one, as we are one, I living in them and you living in me, that their unity may be complete. (John 17:22f)

The human person is a social being with connections to many communities. For Catholics, the Eucharist celebrates the faith community to which we were welcomed in Baptism. In the Eucharist we offer ourselves together with Jesus to the Father. Nourished by the Word of God and the Body and Blood of Christ, Catholics find the strength to serve others.

Catholic institutions and organizations minister within the deep and sometimes troubled web of human relationships and problems. We confront directly the most critical intricacies of human life. Catholic organizations collaborate with others to achieve common purposes both within and outside the Church. Community awareness means a willingness to engage in dialogue, combine resources and continue the mission, no matter how challenging this work may be.

How Do Catholic Organizations Recognize the Communal Reality of Human Life?

Ask yourself...

For Institutional Reflection

How is our organization an instrument of communal healing and reconciliation both internally and externally?
How does our institution make visible Catholic social and moral teachings in the political arena? In what ways can we do more?
How does our organization work to improve the economic, social and political climate of the area?
Is our institution involved with other Churches and groups in the local community? How can we improve our involvement?
What steps do we take to ally with other groups for important spiritual or public causes?
Do we encourage everyone associated with our organization to become involved in other community-minded groups?
How do we share the resources of our institution or organization with other groups? How can we do more in this area?
How are the poor, the needy or the suffering encouraged to become part of our organization? How are they served by it? How do they influence it?
How does our group allow for recreational and social opportunities for staff, students, members, volunteers, neighbors and benefactors?

For Personal Reflection

How do I see myself as interdependent in the lives and works of others? In what communities do I live and work?
What does collaboration mean in my own sphere of ministry? How can I collaborate better with others?
What are the limits of my collaboration with others? To what groups or individuals would I not be allied and why not?

Back to the Top
Back to the Chancery Page

Last Update: Friday, March 31, 2006,3:03 PM