The Church Reformed Must Always Be Reformed

Image courtesy of Jim FitzGerald.

During my 25-plus years with Call To Action, I’ve heard two phrases countless times. So frequently were these phrases used that they’ve become etched in Call To Action’s DNA:

Ecclesia reformata, semper reformanda (Latin for "the church reformed must always be reformed"), and “We are the church.”

We can easily interpret the first phrase as the institutional Catholic Church always needing reform. Indeed, numerous Call To Action events and programs remind us that the church is always in need of reform.  

However, when we affirm that we are the church, we reach the inevitable conclusion that we are always in need of reform. Our Catholic faith calls us to challenge the power systems of our times AND to challenge ourselves as we work for justice. When we reform, when we grow, so does our church. 

If we’re comfortable, we’re not engaged enough. 

I’m profoundly grateful for Call To Action’s unfaltering demand to stretch beyond our comfort zones. Spiritual growth often results in discomfort; being willing to work through this discomfort has long been a hallmark of Call To Action. This commitment has undoubtedly led CTA to evolve and transform since 1976 to maintain its relevance and effectiveness. 

Although the future of church reform is challenging to predict, one thing is certain: Call To Action is still desperately needed in our world as we work for a church that embodies love and justice for all of God’s creation.

Every one of us is needed. There is a seat at the table waiting for you.