When hearts are moved to charitable action on behalf of those in need, we can't help but to take note of what causes those in need to suffer. Note that we are not all called to both works of charity and advocacy for justice. Some, like Blessed Teresa of Calcutta, will be noted for their works of charity; others, like Dom Helder Camara, will be known for their advocacy for justice. What's important is that we, as a Catholic Church, are together meeting both needs. Some of us, by doing works of charity with love and compassion, will by our actions call attention to what needs to be done in the way of justice, and others of us will take up the cause of justice and bring about the systemic changes that are needed.
For some success stories that show how the Catholic Church is the US weave together works of charity and advocacy for justice, go to www.usccb.org/cchd/successstories.shtml.
Copyright © 2009, Deacon Carl D. Smith. All rights reserved. Reprint permission granted to parishes for use in Sunday bulletins.
