Recap: The 2nd Annual Bishop Kevin C. Rhoades Lecture on Catholic Social Teaching
On Thursday, September 4, Catholic Charities proudly hosted the 2nd Annual Bishop Kevin C. Rhoades Lecture on Catholic Social Teaching at St. Matthew Parish in South Bend. The event began with a Mass celebrated by Bishop Rhoades alongside Rev. Robert Dowd, setting a prayerful and reflective tone for the evening. After Mass, attendees were invited to share a meal together, followed by an insightful lecture and meaningful fellowship.
Dr. Martijn Cremers, a distinguished professor from the University of Notre Dame, delivered the keynote address. He thoughtfully connected our Catholic faith with contemporary business practices, emphasizing our shared call to solidarity. While acknowledging that every person has an inherent right to fair wages, Cremers also highlighted our collective responsibility to seek the well-being of all our neighbors. Drawing on powerful lessons from the Parable of the Rich Fool, he encouraged the group to focus on growing in richness before God by earnestly seeking His kingdom.
Following the lecture, guests engaged in small group discussions that explored profound questions such as:
How are you seeking the kingdom of God, others, and yourself?
How can we grow in being rich in what matters to God?
What actions toward solidarity can I take right now?
For a full recap of the event, check out Today’s Catholic’s article.
Thank you to all who attended this wonderful event!