The Catholic Church's history of social justice is a long and evolving one, rooted in scripture and articulated through papal encyclicals and councils.  It emphasizes the inherent dignity of every human being and the need to address societal structures that create inequality.  Key themes include social charity (caritas), respect for the human person, solidarity, and the common good.

Appointed by the Pastoral Council, the Social Justice Commission contributes to the parish’s Mission Statement by calling people everywhere, and of every faith, to work toward the elimination of poverty, to speak out against injustices and to actively shape a more peaceful and just world. We strive to bring the Gospel to the world by developing social justice and service-related opportunities for growth in faith and spirituality for all parishioners. The Social Justice Commission works with local, regional and international organizations / agencies and our Sister Parishes in Nicaragua and the Dominican Republic to provide financial support and coordinate volunteer involvement.  Our efforts are faith-based and consistent with Catholic Social Teaching.

St Elizabeth’s is a tithing parish, with 5% of the overall budget allocated to the Social Justice Commission for distribution to projects and agencies that help people in need.  Along with parish projects and agency support, the commission works to learn about the major social justice issues of our time and provide learning and engagement opportunities for parishioners in those areas.

Links are provided to help you learn more about the rich history of Catholic Social Teaching, Parish Projects and how you can support them, the Agencies Supported financially by our parish and ways you can engage with them along with educational information on Current Social Concerns of our time.

To become involved in our parish's Social Justice Commission or any of the projects we coordinate please fill out the Ministry Interest Form below.  Someone from the Social Justice Commission will be in touch with you.  If you have any questions on the form, feel free to contact Martha Garcia-Wegener.