The Role of the Church in Contemporary Society

The Church as a Community of Worship

Mass, the central Catholic worship event, consists of liturgy of the word (readings, homily) and liturgy of the Eucharist. This communal act unites believers in one purpose - glorifying God.
Sacraments, the rites officially recognised by the Church, are moments of grace with special significance. These include the Eucharist (communion), Baptism, Confirmation, Reconciliation (Confession), Matrimony, Holy Orders and Anointing of the Sick.
The Church calendar (Advent, Christmas, Lent, Easter, Ordinary time) helps to structure the year around key faith themes, reflecting the life of Jesus and the Church’s continuing spiritual journey.
Prayer is a key part of Catholic practice, from communal liturgy to personal devotions like the Rosary.

The Church as a Moral Guide

Catholic social teaching promotes human dignity, which is inherent and inviolable, leading to a focus on social justice and care for the marginalised.
The Church actively campaigns on issues it perceives in line with Catholic morality, such as opposition to abortion, euthanasia, and other issues in bioethics.
Pope Francis’s encyclicals Laudato Si (on care for our common home) and Fratelli Tutti (on fraternity and social friendship) underscore the Church’s commitment to environmental justice and global solidarity.

Promoting Education and Learning

Catholics believe in the development of the whole person, body, and soul, leading to the Catholic Church’s widespread involvement in education across the world.
The Church’s teaching on social justice often informs a school’s identity and mission statement, with an emphasis on service to the community and the wider world.

The Church in Charity and Social Work

The Catholic Church operates many charities worldwide such as Caritas and Catholic Relief Services, providing aid, development support and advocating for justice.
Locally, churches often support food banks, night shelters and other community initiatives.
Parish groups offer mutual support, from youth and family activities to bereavement counselling.

The Church and Interfaith Dialogue

Vatican II’s document Nostra Aetate (1965) marked the Church’s commitment to interfaith dialogue, recognising other religions’ value and seeking common ground.
Today, the Church promotes peace and understanding between different faiths and works collaboratively on key global issues.

The Church and Ecumenism

The Church actively participates in the ecumenical movement, seeking unity among Christian denominations while respecting differences.
Shared worship, theological dialogue and cooperation in social issues are common examples of this work.

The Church and Society’s Criticisms

The Church’s stance on certain moral issues and historical scandals, such as child abuse, have brought significant criticism and challenges to the Church’s influence and credibility.