August 28, 2025

"Serving life by caring for others is the supreme law." — Pope Leo XIV

As summer draws to a close, our communities continue to reflect on the call to justice, peace, and care of creation. In recent weeks, the Church has witnessed moments of hope and challenge alike: from new initiatives that deepen our ecological commitment to global appeals for peace and reconciliation. May these stories inspire us to carry the work of justice and hope into the season ahead.

The Dignity Act: A Bipartisan Proposal for Immigration Reform

The Dignity Act, introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives, seeks to address longstanding challenges in immigration policy by strengthening border security, modernizing asylum procedures, and providing earned pathways to legal status for undocumented immigrants. The bill represents one of the most comprehensive bipartisan reform efforts in recent years.

• Read the bill here
• USCCB's endorsement is here
• A summary is here 
• And an analysis is here

USCCB and Catholic Health Leaders Advocate with the FDA on Mifepristone

The USCCB, together with Catholic medical organizations, has urged the FDA to reinstate critical safety protocols for the abortion drug mifepristone. The letter highlights serious health risks and calls for stronger safeguards to protect women and ensure proper medical oversight.

Read the letter here.

USCCB Vice President Offers Prayer and Healing for Minneapolis Shooting Victims

Archbishop William E. Lori, Vice President of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, expressed profound sadness in response to the tragic shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis. He invited the faithful to “beg the Lord for the protection and healing of the entire Annunciation family."

Read the statement here.

Pax Christi New England Releases Results of Nuclear Arms Survey

The survey, which had over 900 respondents, documents current knowledge, attitudes, and activities about nuclear weapons, with the goal of mobilizing support for eliminating them.

The survey results can be found here.

Renewing Disability Ministry in the Church

Catholic communities across the United States are strengthening their outreach to persons with disabilities through new initiatives in parish life and ministry. Programs include sensory-friendly liturgies, expanded access to the sacraments, and intentional efforts to promote full participation in the life of the Church. These efforts seek to foster a culture of belonging rooted in the dignity of every person.

Read more here.

Pope Leo's Call to Ecumenism as a Path to Peace

In response to Ecumenical Week (August 18–24), Pope Leo XIV urged all Christians to become architects of reconciliation and peace. He highlighted the unity forged by the early Church and called for renewed collaboration among denominations to further justice and harmony in today’s fractured world.

Read more here.

Deepening Communion in a Polararized World

• November 4-6, 2025 in St. Meinrad, IN
• More information is available here.

Contact CMSM JPIC

Dr. David Rohrer Budiash, Director of Programs & Managing Editor, Review for Religious

Visit us online: cmsm.org/justiceandpeace