An invaluable synthesis of how catholicity has structured the Church's social mission in historical and contemporary contexts. With a characteristically lucid and inclusive approach, Curran navigates the complex methodological assumptions and political tensions driving distinct Catholic responses to entrenched and evolving social issues. -- Kristin Heyer, Santa Clara University Charles Curran is the foremost Catholic moral theologian in the United States and one of the Church's leading moral theologians worldwide. His latest book is a comprehensive theological analysis of numerous issues, controversies, and developments in the U.S. Catholic Church, highlighting the changing aspects of the Church's social mission over time. I strongly recommend this book. -- Richard P. McBrien, professor of theology, University of Notre Dame Father Curran opens up the trajectories of the social mission of the Catholic Church over the last 300 years with the goal of clarifying the theological and ecclesial challenges before us at the present time. A 'must read' for Catholics who would venture into the fray of public policy debate. -- Marvin L. Mich, STD, director of social policy, Catholic Family Center

How does the Church function in the world? What is it called to do, and what does it actually do?C harles E. Curran explores the social mission of the U.S. Catholic Church from a theological perspective, analyzing and assessing four aspects: the importance of social mission, who carries it out, how it is carried out, and the roles that the Church and individual Catholics play in supporting these efforts. In the early and mid-twentieth century the Catholic Church in the United States tended to focus its social mission on its own charities, hospitals, and schools. But the Second Vatican Council called the Church to a new understanding of social mission, deepening its involvement in and commitment to civic, social, and political life in the United States and abroad. Curran devotes particular attention to three issues that have reflected the Church's strong sense of social mission since that time: abortion, war and peace, and labor. The Social Mission of the U.S. Catholic Church describes the proper role of bishops, institutions, and movements in the Church, but insists that the primary role belongs to all the baptized members of the Church as they live out the social mission in their daily lives.