An introduction to Caritas in East Anglia
Caritas is a Latin word meaning ‘charity’, otherwise described as ‘love in action.’ With that in mind, you will have a clue as to why an international Catholic organisation calling itself Caritas may have some relevance to our faith and to our mission in the world.
We are all called, as Christians, to offer charity – or love – to our neighbours. Jesus commands us to ‘love our neighbour as ourselves’. Indeed, Jesus goes on to tell us that on these two commandments – ‘Love God’ and ‘love your neighbour as yourself’ – hang the whole Law! (Mt 22:37-40) So this ‘caritas’ – this ‘charity’ – this ‘love in action’ – seems to be central to what we Christians are about.
This is why Caritas was set up as an international Catholic organisation – to serve (love) God by serving (loving) our sisters and brothers in need. In England and Wales, Caritas is part of the Bishops Conference and many dioceses are members of the organisation, as are many charities.
The history and past achievements of Carita East Anglia can be found in the Early History of Caritas East Anglia.
If you would like to help with the work of Caritas East Anglia, please contact: caritas@rcdea.org.uk
Caritas – ending poverty, promoting justice and restoring dignity
Caritas East Anglia encourages, supports and co-ordinates works of social outreach in the diocese. It is a member of the Caritas Social Action Network (CSAN), the social action arm of the Catholic Church in England and Wales.
Caritas Internationalis has its headquarters in Rome – co-ordinating emergency operations, formulating development policy and advocating for a better world for everyone. All national Caritas organisations are members of their own regional Caritas networks and the international confederation.
From the founding of the first Caritas in Germany in 1897, to the setting up of Caritas Internationalis in 1951, until today, Caritas has a rich history of listening respectfully to the suffering of the poor and giving them the tools to transform their own lives. The deep moral and spiritual principles of dignity, justice, solidarity and stewardship still guide Caritas today.