Offering possibilities for increased collaboration with the diocese, the administrative staff of Catholic Charities has found a new home at the diocesan Pastoral Center.

Seventeen Catholic Charities staff members, including Executive Director Robert Moser, moved into the building on July 14 at the invitation of Bishop Robert W. McElroy.

On July 17, the diocesan staff gathered for an informal lunch to welcome their new neighbors. In brief remarks at the gathering, Diocesan Chancellor Rod Valdivia said the relocation represents “a historic moment” for the diocese, and Bishop McElroy hailed it as “a happy day” and “a wonderful coming together of our ministries.”

After being introduced by Bishop McElroy, Moser addressed the luncheon attendees. He echoed the bishop’s sentiments, noting that many of Catholic Charities’ ministries enjoy “a natural connection” with the work of various diocesan offices and that there will be many opportunities for the agency “to work side-by-side, not only physically but programmatically,” with the diocese.

He added that the agency’s declared goal of establishing a presence at local parishes and making its services more accessible at the parish level will only be enhanced by the shared workspace, owing to the diocese’s “long track record of seeing the parishes as your constituent.”

Full story at The Southern Cross.