Why do we have Catholic social services? How do we stay true to purpose in the way that we operate, offer services and consider our place in the world? How do we apply Catholic Social Teachings to our contemporary context? These are questions at the heart of the purpose of the CSSV Catholic Ethos and Identity Committee. This Committee was formed in 2008, initially as a Working Group, and continues to offer direction and oversight of CSSV’s work the area of Catholic ethos and identity, as we consider what are the best ways we can support member agencies to keep their mission, identity and purpose in clear focus.
The Committee is tasked with advising and contributing to CSSV’s program to strengthen the Catholic Ethos and Identity of member organisations. With oversight from this Committee, CSSV’s works on programs and projects such as:
- The Mission Inspired Leadership Program – this program is a four-part learning experience designed to equip seasoned and emerging leaders as well as expert practitioners with the conceptual tools and approaches they need to deliver social impact and thrive sustainably for the common good. The 2024 program is its 8th iteration.
- Co-presenting the bi-annual Catholic Social Services National Conference with Catholic Social Services Australia
- The annual Catholic social services Commissioning Mass
- A project working to make formation opportunities for staff amongst CSSV members (and beyond) better shared and taken up across our membership.
- The CSSV Emerging Leader Network
The Catholic Ethos and Identity Committee is currently comprised of: the Chair – Deacon Mark Kelly (Catholic Diocese of Sale), Jenny Glare (MacKillop Family Services), Bridget O’Shannassy (VMCH), Robina Bradley (St Mary’s House of Welcome) and Neal Murphy (St John of God Accord) who contribute a wealth of expertise and experiences. Committee meetings are a time of robust discussion and sharing of insights, where the breadth of experience that each committee member brings contributes to collective decision-making and well-discerned evaluation. The Committee meets six times throughout the year.
There are ongoing opportunities to join this Committee as we seek to include members with a diversity of backgrounds and experiences to bring to this important area of work. Committee members are appointed by the CSSV Council. If you would like to express interest in joining the Catholic Ethos and Identity Committee, or would like to find out more about the work of the committee, please contact the CSSV office.
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