The Catholic Social Ministry Gathering: Missionaries of Hope, Advocates of Justice
Keynote speakers at the recent Catholic Social Ministry gathering in Washington, D.C., emphasized the unique nature of Catholic social ministry, setting it apart from the politics of the world. The theme for this year’s event, “Missionaries of Hope, Advocates of Justice,” underscored the need for unity among participants to fulfill this mission.
By Christopher Wells
Leaders of Catholic social ministry from across the United States converged in the nation’s capital for the 2025 Catholic Social Ministry Gathering. This annual event brings together hundreds of individuals whose faith motivates them to address pressing domestic and global challenges affecting vulnerable communities worldwide.
The focal point of this year’s Gathering was the theme: “Missionaries of Hope, Advocates of Justice.”
‘Following our prophetic vocation’
During the Opening Plenary Session on Saturday, Cardinal Christophe Pierre, the Apostolic Nuncio to the United States, delivered a keynote address. He highlighted the importance of listening, dialogue, and discernment in the pursuit of the common good and the promotion of human dignity.
Cardinal Pierre emphasized the prophetic vocation of Catholics to proclaim the truth that God loves all people and desires them to experience their dignity as His children. He urged attendees to work towards societal transformation by fostering solidarity and justice.
Rejecting the notion of “political messiahs” who offer simplistic and divisive solutions, Cardinal Pierre called for a different approach in Catholic social ministry. He stressed the importance of unity in serving those in need and providing hope to those deprived of justice.
The Cardinal identified three key areas where Catholic social ministry can contribute to greater justice: the abolition of the death penalty, advocacy for world peace, and the fair treatment of migrants and refugees. Despite individual focuses, he encouraged unity in addressing these critical issues.
In conclusion, Cardinal Pierre urged a renewal of faith and commitment to the Spirit of Christ, promoting a synodal approach through listening, dialogue, and discernment to fulfill the call to be “missionaries of hope and advocates of justice.”
‘Building bridges by organizing hope’
The following morning’s Plenary Session featured Dr. Emilce Cuda, Secretary of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America, as the keynote speaker. She explored Pope Francis’ teachings on community engagement and the importance of building bridges of inclusion and reconciliation.
Dr. Cuda highlighted the work of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America in promoting unity across the Americas as a means of salvation in a world marked by division. She emphasized the Catholic contribution to fostering unity in a polarized society.
Organized communities, Dr. Cuda explained, must engage in dialogue with all parties to ensure peace and solidarity. She warned against succumbing to a narrative of fear that isolates communities, stressing the need to organize hope and continue building bridges of communication.
While acknowledging the risk of hope being manipulated into ideology, Dr. Cuda urged Catholic social ministry leaders to stay true to their mission of organizing hope and embracing inclusivity and solidarity.
The Catholic Social Ministry Gathering served as a platform for participants to reflect on their role as missionaries of hope and advocates of justice, uniting in their commitment to building a more just and compassionate society.
