For the past 5+ years, I have served in the Office of Living Justice with Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Green Bay.  During this time, I have often marveled at the people I have encountered who are living the mission of peace and justice in their own lives and challenging me to do the same in mine.  Whether through direct service, advocacy, works of mercy, or promoting justice, you bring the words of the Gospel to life for the people you serve.

I see this reflected in the words of today’s first reading: “For he who pities them leads them and guides them beside springs of water.”  While the author is talking about the work of the Lord, this is what I have seen from countless people who are dedicated to the social ministry of the church.  People who recognize the suffering that exists in the world and, moved with pity, take steps to alleviate that suffering.  People who lay down their lives to walk alongside the poor and the vulnerable so they can come to know that “the Lord is gracious and merciful.”

I have decided to step away from church ministry, but I wanted to thank all of you for the ways that you have inspired me.  I feel honored to have worked alongside people who take seriously the Gospel message to love God and love our neighbor.  I look forward to the day in heaven when we will get to see the full impact of the little kindnesses we have offered to people in need and hear the words we all long to hear, “Well done, my good and faithful servant!  Since you were faithful in small matters, I will give you great responsibilities.  Come, share your master’s joy.”

God bless all of you and your work to build the kingdom!

Peter Weiss has been the Director of Living Justice with Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Green Bay since 2017. Through this role, he has shared the good news of Catholic Social Teaching and raised awareness about issues of injustice in the world.  While Peter will no longer be working in this role as of March 24, he remains committed to living the Gospel and helping people know and experience the love God has for them.

                                                                

This and other Catholic Charities USA reflections may be viewed here.