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E.J. Dionne speaking to audience at Salt and Light Gathering

Salt and Light Gatherings

The Initiative regularly brings together young Catholics in Washington to explore links between faith, Catholic social thought, and their lives and work, especially on public policy. These unique Salt and Light Gatherings are for Catholics under 40 years old who work on Capitol Hill or in the administration, other branches of government, or public policy organizations. They are held in the Capitol or at Georgetown’s School of Continuing Studies, with presentations and discussion on a critical topic, opportunities for networking, and a happy hour and reception.

Events

Workers installing a green roof with vegetation.
Nov
12
2025

Building an Economy for the Common Good

Catholic social teaching emphasizes that the economy is meant to serve people, not the other way around. Early in his pontificate, Pope Francis warned that an “idolatry of money” threatens to “devour everything which stands in the way of increased profits,” with the environment and vulnerable…

Videos

Building an Economy for the Common Good (Video)

November 12, 2025

Duration: 1 hour 2 minutes

Broken Links: How Do Media Silos Undermine Social Solidarity? (Video)

October 21, 2025

Duration: 1 hour 4 minutes

Is Partisanship a Threat to Faithful Citizenship or a Way to Live it Out? (Video)

February 27, 2025

Duration: 1 hour 9 minutes