“The temporal order is to be renewed in such a way that, while its own principals are fully respected, it is harmonized with the principles of Christian life and adapted to the various conditions of times, places, and peoples. Among the tasks of this apostolate, Christian social action is preeminent. The Council desires to see it extended today to every sector of life, not forgetting the cultural sphere.”
Vatican Council Decree on the Apostolate of Lay People, Chapter II, #7
This commission is to promote outreach programs with emphasis on ecumenical activities, social services, pro-life, social justice, and community ministries, co-operating with other churches and civic organizations in projects aimed at community improvement.
It is to co-operate with the Education Commission in programs that promote awareness and needed action on peace as well as justice issues.
It is to identify and analyze the major social problems in the parish as well as the larger surrounding community area. It maintains working contact with resource people and pertinent agencies for problems such as drugs, delinquency, alcoholism, cruelty, abuse, and negligence.
It promotes suitable projects in the areas of economics, politics, and international life.
It must prepare, carry out, and evaluate a yearly action plan based on long range goals set by the parish pastoral council (in conjunction with all the commissions) as part of the parish pastoral plan.
It is responsible to prepare and propose to the parish pastoral council an annual budget for those supplies, equipment, and expenses necessary to carry out that plan.
The “Mission Statement and Responsibilities” of the Community Ministry Commission comes from the Diocesan Manual for Parish Pastoral Councils and Commissions.