Social Action Ministry

A justice education, legislative lobbyist and community involvement effort of the Diocese of Little Rock

What's New

Bishop Anthony B. Taylor issued the following statement, titled "On Human Dignity,...
Bishop Anthony B. Taylor sent the following letter to priests, Aug. 13, 2025, asking...
Jennifer Verkamp-Ruthven, director of Catholic Immigration Services for the...

Social Action in Arkansas

Social Action Ministry fosters action on behalf of justice and peace within the Diocese of Little Rock. It serves as a voice for the poor and the powerless through justice, education, advocacy and community involvement. For more information, contact Dennis Lee at (501) 664-0340, ext. 308.

Why is the Church Involved?

The Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church tells us that a sin against the common good and its demands is a social sin that “refers to the relationships between the various human communities. These relationships are not always in accordance with the plan of God, who intends that there be justice in the world and freedom and peace between individuals and groups.” This is why our advocacy work in the diocese is so important, especially when the legislature is in session and public policies and relationships are being determined.

Services

When appropriate, this ministry takes the lead in educating and mobilizing Arkansas Catholics on social issues. Details on the Church’s position on issues are sent to parish social action representatives on a timely basis. This is done in the following ways:

Education

Teaches and promotes Catholic Social Teaching (CST), the consistent life ethic and the social mission of the Catholic Church. To learn more, read the Seven Themes of Catholic Social Teaching

Advocacy

Supports legislative advocacy activities in the Diocese of Little Rock by studying state legislation to determine if proposed bills are “for” the common good or “against” the common good (i.e., follows the principles of CST); and interacts with state representatives and senators to educate them on the Church’s position on pending legislation

Collaboration

Collaborates with diocesan offices as well as interfaith and community groups on issues of common concern.

Communication

Sends information to pastors about social issues being discussed by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and how it relates to Catholics in the pew.



What's New

Bishop Anthony B. Taylor issued the following statement, titled "On Human Dignity,...
Bishop Anthony B. Taylor sent the following letter to priests, Aug. 13, 2025, asking...
Jennifer Verkamp-Ruthven, director of Catholic Immigration Services for the...