Particularly in this climate of economic uncertainty, Catholic families can demonstrate their gratitude for the gifts they have received by giving back to those facing food insecurity. Although full November SNAP benefits were restored to North Carolina recipients Nov. 14, the government shutdown shined a light on the epidemic of local families in need of assistance. Consider giving financially or volunteering with food pantries at your church or with Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte.
What is the role of Catholic education? In an Oct. 28 apostolic letter, “Drawing New Maps of Hope,” Pope Leo XIV reflected on this question 60 years after the Oct. 28, 1965, proclamation of “Gravissimum Educationis,” the Second Vatican Council’s declaration on Christian education. In light of modern challenges, the pope said a Catholic education should courageously teach the whole human person. “The Church celebrates a fruitful educational history but also faces the imperative to update its proposals in light of the signs of the times,” the pope wrote. In the eight-page document, the pontiff identifies three educational priorities, listed below, that we all can learn from, regardless of our age.