Role Models

In reading Young Adult Catholics (see sidebar), I was fascinated by one of the researchers' findings on the beliefs of young Catholics - namely, that commitments to the poor and to social justice are seen as central parts of Catholicism by today's young people. 

A 1997 survey asked which elements were essential to their vision of Catholic faith, and young adults named the following as the top 5:

• Belief that God is present in the sacraments;
• Charitable efforts toward helping the poor;
• Belief that Christ is really present in the Eucharist;
• Devotion to Mary the Mother of God;
• Belief that God is present in a special way in the poor.

I was struck by the fact that two of the "top 5" beliefs are related to care for the poor and Catholic social teaching. 

I also noticed a reference in the same book to young adults as the "Mother Teresa generation." It's fascinating to consider who are the role models for today's young people. I've started compiling a list of role models for service and social justice. The list is scattered and very much "in progress," but I invite your additions and suggestions!

Who are the leaders that inspire a new generation to act for faith and/or justice? 

• Mother Teresa
• Pope John Paul II
• Dorothy Day
• Ghandi
• The Dalai Lama
• Martin Luther King, Jr.
• Rosa Parks
• Cesar Chavez
• Bono (lead singer of U2)
• Hollywood activists like Angelina Jolie & Brad Pitt
• Who else??