Jesus’ mission was to bring the good news to the poor, proclaim liberty to captives, give sight to the blind, and to set the downtrodden free. (Luke 4:18-19) According to Matthew 25:31-46, our mission, like Jesus’, is to respond to the hungry, thirsty, homeless, naked, sick, and imprisoned.
Catholic Social Teaching tells us of our obligation to make our choices (our “options”) considering how they will affect all of society, especially those who are most vulnerable. We are to make a conscious choice to prioritize the common good in our daily lives. We are to choose to show solidarity with and advocate for the oppressed; choose to work to build societies where the marginalized are treated justly; and choose to help find ways to include all people in opportunities for education, a living wage, health care, and safe housing. (Laskey, The Ministry of Peace and Justice)
Pope Francis reminds us, “We are called, as the Church, to respond to the plight of the poor by actively working to eliminate the causes of structural poverty. We are called to a new mindset, to think in terms of community and the priority of life over the accumulation of goods by just a few.” (McKenna, A Concise Guide to CST)
How do we live our Option for the Poor and Vulnerable at MMOC? The Christian Service Commission aids with immediate physical needs while the Peace and Justice Ministry strives to provide education and advocacy opportunities for societal change.