Recognizing the need to address the unjust structures in our society today, the Ignatian Advocacy Team seeks to advocate for and with our most marginalized brothers and sisters. We support relationships with community organizations, non-profits, and government bodies at the local, state, and national levels.
“The complexity of the problems we face and the richness of the opportunities offered demand that we engage in building bridges between rich and poor and establishing advocacy links of mutual support between those who hold political power and those who find it difficult to voice their interests.” – 35th General Congregation of the Jesuits
In Spiritual Exercises No. 230, St. Ignatius of Loyola writes, “Love ought to manifest itself more by deeds than by words.” As a part of the Jesuit family, the Ignatian Advocacy team recognizes that practicing our faith and building a more just society are inseparable. Our faith compels us to name the unjust systems in our communities and share with policymakers a vision of social justice that cares for the poor and oppressed.
To learn more about the significance of advocacy as an essential part of faith and justice work, check out this video from Ignatian Solidarity Network.
The Ignatian Advocacy Team works to support the advocacy efforts of each of our Issue-Based Action Teams in collaboration with our city, state, and national partners. At the same time, the Team collaborates with our Social Mission Core Team to work across issue areas towards a comprehensive vision of God’s kingdom.
Team efforts include letter-writing, online action alerts, legislative visits, and educational workshops to develop leaders and build a culture of advocacy within the parish. In 2021, the Team offered a series of webinars with national experts focused on advocacy basics. <add these as videos>
Check out our Ignatian Advocacy Resources to learn more about addressing unjust structures in our society today.