Last month, the world rejoiced as we watched the election of Pope Leo XIV! I know that we can’t wait to see how he will carry on the legacy of Pope Francis I, and of Pope Leo XIII.  

If you aren’t familiar with Pope Leo XIII, he wrote a foundational document of the modern church, Rerum Novarum, “Of New Things!”  During the second industrial revolution, his words advocated for the dignity of workers and organized labor. Many popes have since elaborated on his word with their sequel encyclicals, as we know that advocating for the marginalized, and for the rights of workers, is an essential tenent of Catholic Social Teaching. 

At Catholic Charities Dallas, we help advocate for the dignity and rights of workers with our Next Gen Wealth Academy!  Through personalized financial coaching, HUD counseling support, employment services, and financial education, we help families no longer live paycheck to paycheck, and thrive in their careers.  

We know that every family’s financial values and needs are unique, and that’s why we focus on offering personalized financial guidance that goes beyond just “budgeting help.” Whether someone needs help building credit, decreasing debt, or saving for their dream home, our coaches help develop a plan to reach their individualized goals. 

This past spring, this program was able to assist over 500 clients with free tax preparation services. Thank you to St. Marks in Plano for hosting one of our sites! We also hosted a Business Bootcamp where 18 new entrepreneurs spent 10 weeks receiving the tools and support they need to succeed in running their own business. The next round of Business Bootcamp will kick-off again in the fall, so stay tuned for details!  

If you are looking to support the dignity of workers, we would love for you to share our Next Gen Wealth Academy information with your parishioners.  You can download the free graphics in this email and plug right into your parish communications!  I am also happy to come give a free presentation on Rerum Novarum or Catholic Social Teaching to any of your parish groups.   

Finally, I’d like to remind you, parish staff, that you also have dignity as a worker. I hope you can take some time to rest and recharge this summer, and remember your true purpose of sharing your gifts and talents with your parish community! Thank you for your work, especially for all of the tasks that go unseen. 

Have a blessed month, until next time!  

Learn more about CST

• Examination of Conscience in Light of CST
  • English PDF
  • Spanish PDF
  • Thank you to Christ the King, St. Ann’s in Coppell, St. Joseph Waxahachie, and Jesuit for having me out to present over the last few weeks! If you are interested in a free parish presentation, find more information here: Host a talk by Devyn