Mission
The Catholic Committee of Appalachia (CCA) is a grassroots, faith-based network raising a prophetic voice of justice for Appalachia and her people.
What CCA is about
Community & Solidarity
We provide a community of solidarity and network of support for people of faith working for social, economic and ecological justice in Appalachia.
Catholic Social teaching
We stand with and challenge the Church to do the work of the Gospel and exemplify Catholic social teachings.
Educational Programs
We offer educational programs focusing on Appalachian justice issues and the challenges facing the region, the people and the environment.
Spirituality
We practice, advocate and encourage spirituality connected to God’s Creation.
Participation
We encourage participation at grassroots levels to fill the void of social justice and build bridges between the diverse people and places of Appalachia.
“Never before has the Church needed so badly the presence and pain that is the prophet in our midst, whose only criteria is faithfulness to the Spirit.”
Sister Beth Davies, CND
CCA Founding Member
History
Since 1970, the Catholic Committee of Appalachia has existed to serve Appalachia, her poor and the entire web of creation. As a membership based organization, CCA stands in solidarity with its members on issues of concern to them. Mountaintop removal, labor, private prison development, sustainable lifestyles and communities, poverty, health, clean water, racism and climate change are among those which CCA has addressed.
CCA continues to take action by:
Publishing and distributing the three Appalachian pastoral messages
Collaborating with other organizations to advance social and environmental justice
Offering spiritual and educational opportunities, such as the Cherokee Retreat, religious education materials on climate change, and the Religious Leaders Forum on Mountaintop Removal.