Catholic Relief Services is the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States, founded in 1943 by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops and now working in more than 100 countries.  CRS' mission is to promote human development and provide opportunities for Catholics in the United States to live out their faith by responding to our Gospel call to care for the poor and vulnerable.


Through the efforts of CRS and parish Chapters around the country (St. Cornelius CRS chapter played a significant role in contacting our local and state legislatures) The Global Thrive Act (H.R. 4864) was passed on September 22, 2020.

Bill Summaries:
This bill reauthorizes for FY2021-FY2025 programs to provide assistance to orphans and other vulnerable children in developing countries. The bill also requires the U.S. Agency for International Development to direct relevant executive branch agencies to incorporate early childhood development into current programs and promote inclusive early childhood development in partner countries.

Such actions to promote early childhood development shall build on existing U.S. plans and strategies and improve coordination with foreign governments and international and regional organizations with respect to official country policies and plans to improve (1) early childhood development; (2) maternal, newborn, and child health and nutrition care; (3) basic education; (4) water, sanitation, and hygiene; and (5) child protection plans.

The Church’s social teaching is a rich treasure of wisdom about building a just society and living lives of holiness amidst the challenges of modern society. Modern Catholic social teaching has been articulated through a tradition of papal, conciliar, and episcopal documents.  The depth and richness of this tradition can be understood best through a direct reading of these documents.

Seven Catholic Social Teachings (CST 101)