A justice education, legislative lobbyist and community involvement effort of the Diocese of Little Rock
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Catholic Diocese of Little Rock
Bishop urges unity after activist’s death - Sep 16, 2025 Bishop Anthony B. Taylor issued the following statement, titled "On Human Dignity,... |
Bishop requests special collection for Gaza - Aug 13, 2025 Bishop Anthony B. Taylor sent the following letter to priests, Aug. 13, 2025, asking... |
Know your rights: Immigration staff advises - Apr 8, 2025 Jennifer Verkamp-Ruthven, director of Catholic Immigration Services for the... |
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.
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.
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.
Bishop urges unity after activist’s death - Sep 16, 2025 Bishop Anthony B. Taylor issued the following statement, titled "On Human Dignity,... |
Bishop requests special collection for Gaza - Aug 13, 2025 Bishop Anthony B. Taylor sent the following letter to priests, Aug. 13, 2025, asking... |
Know your rights: Immigration staff advises - Apr 8, 2025 Jennifer Verkamp-Ruthven, director of Catholic Immigration Services for the... |