Located in Wardsville, a small town in Cole County, Missouri, the Missouri Catholic Conference (MCC) stands as a pivotal organization dedicated to promoting and safeguarding the interests and values of the Catholic Church in the state of Missouri. As the official public policy agency of the Catholic Church in Missouri, the MCC plays an influential role in shaping legislation, advocating for social justice, and championing the rights of the vulnerable and marginalized.
The MCC traces its roots back to 1967 when the four Catholic dioceses in Missouri – the Archdiocese of St. Louis, the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph, the Diocese of Jefferson City, and the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau – recognized the need for a collective and organized effort to address the critical issues facing their communities. Consequently, the Missouri Catholic Conference was established to create a unified voice, combining the resources and expertise of these dioceses to effectively engage in the public square.
One of the primary objectives of the MCC is to advocate for public policies that align with the teachings and values of the Catholic Church. In doing so, the MCC focuses on a range of critical issues, including poverty alleviation, education, healthcare, human rights, and the sanctity of life from conception to natural death. By staying informed and actively participating in the legislative process, the MCC works tirelessly to ensure that the voice of the Catholic Church is considered when crafting and implementing laws that impact the lives of Missourians.
In fulfilling its mission, the MCC engages in various activities to directly influence public policy. Through strategic coordination and collaboration with diocesan leaders, the MCC conducts extensive research and policy analysis, enabling them to formulate recommended actions and positions. These efforts are further enhanced through dialogues and partnerships with organizations from other religious traditions, as well as alliances with secular groups that share common goals.
Aside from advocating for legislative action, the MCC also plays a vital role in educating and mobilizing Catholics across Missouri. By providing resources and hosting conferences, seminars, and workshops, the MCC empowers individuals and communities to better understand and articulate Catholic social teachings. This equips them to engage in advocacy and take action, ultimately creating a more just and compassionate society.
Additionally, the MCC serves as a conduit between the Catholic Church and the broader community, acting as a resource and offering guidance to lawmakers, educators, healthcare providers, and other public and private institutions. Through this interaction, the MCC seeks to foster an environment of dialogue, respect, and understanding, promoting values that contribute to the common good while respecting the rights and freedoms of all individuals.
Underlying the immense efforts of the MCC is a commitment to the principles of human dignity, subsidiarity, and solidarity – principles that form the foundations of Catholic social teaching. Recognizing the inherent worth and sacredness of every human life, the MCC aims to cultivate a society that upholds and protects the dignity of all individuals, particularly the most vulnerable among us.
In conclusion, the Missouri Catholic Conference stands as a steadfast advocate for the Catholic Church in Missouri, promoting policies rooted in justice, compassion, and respect for human dignity. Through its unwavering commitment to social justice, education, and legislative engagement, the MCC endeavors to build a more equitable and inclusive society, standing as a shining example of Catholic values in action.
