Global Solidarity

"Solidarity is action on behalf of the one human family, calling us to help overcome the divisions in our world. Solidarity binds the rich to the poor. It makes the free zealous for the cause of the oppressed. It drives the comfortable and secure to take risks for the victims of tyranny and war. It calls those who are strong to care for those who are weak and vulnerable across the spectrum of human life. It opens homes and hearts to those in flight from terror and to migrants whose daily toil supports affluent lifestyles."

                          - Called to Global Solidarity, U.S Catholic Bishops, 1997)

"Solidarity is not a feeling of vague compassion or shallow distress at the misfortunes of so many people, both near and far. On the contrary it is a firm and persevering determination to commit oneself to the common good; to the good of all and each individual, because we are all really responsible for all."
                           
                                        - (Pope John Paul II, On Social Concerns, 1987)
Why Global Solidarity?

In 1997, the U.S. Catholic Bishops prepared a pastoral letter titled Called to Global Solidarity: International Challenges for US. Parishes, in which they reflected on the key elements of global solidarity, based on the teachings of our Catholic faith. Their conclusion in 1997, at the dawn of the 21st Century, was that these teachings are too often unknown, unheard or unheeded.

Today we still grapple with what it means to be global citizens, a challenge that should be embraced not only by large institutions and agencies, but by every believer and every Catholic community of faith. Each individual has a unique responsibility, founded in Baptism and expressed in everyday choices and actions. The parish also plays an essential role, sacramental and educational, as a place for common prayer and action in pursuit of global solidarity.
Global Solidarity Team

The Global Solidarity Leadership Team offers written resource packets, as well as  leadership, advocacy, and relationship-building training, to support parishes in their global solidarity efforts. For assistance or more information, call OCSJM at (860) 242-5573 or contact Mary O’Brien.




Global Solidarity Resource Packets