Performing Service out of Compassion and Love
“In this life we cannot do great things. We can only do small things with great love.” +Mother Teresa
“Your identification with Christ and his will involves a commitment to build with him that kingdom of love, justice and universal peace. . . . You cannot grow in holiness without committing yourself, body and soul, to giving your best to this endeavor” (Gaudete et Exsultate [Rejoice and Be Glad], no. 25).
The Church’s social teaching is a rich treasure of wisdom about building the kingdom of God on earth with a just society and holiness amidst the challenges of time and culture. The Church has proclaimed its social teaching for more than 115 years. By virtue of Baptism, we are called to carry out the ministries of Jesus Christ in our community and family today.
During Confirmation preparation, we focus on gaining a deeper understanding of how we can help our parish and community. A candidate is required to complete a certain number of hours or types of projects. Some projects may be simple like a can drive to a food bank others may be more integrated like building a personal basket for a neighbor or relative with more attention to detail and personalization involving parents, sponsor, or grandparents.
Parents, catechists, teachers, and sponsors can encourage service based on the spiritual and corporal works of mercy. Consider the following points:
- Confirmation service is not just a job to be done and checked off.
- This service is not viewed to earn the right to Confirmation which is a gift.
- Reflect and even note how this service project helps mirror the mind and heart of Christ.
- The giving of service with reflection for Confirmation can continue all through your life.
AS A CATHOLIC - I CAN “WALK THE WALK” “I CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE”
The Sacraments and the Social Teaching of the Church
The sacraments the Church celebrates are signs of grace that make a deeper reality present to us. One reality we encounter through the sacraments is Christ's presence in the Church community, his body. This recognition of Christ's presence in the community should lead to a stronger awareness of being sent on mission to engage in concrete, love-inspired action in the world.
Visit the USCCB.org Sacraments and the Social Mission of the Church website