Authentic Response
DALLAS
Why We Gathered
THE CHALLENGE
U.S. Catholics give generously abroad—but overlook the homeless at home.
The average person (and Christian) has ceded homelessness to the state.​​
Response to homelessness must be more relational than logistic.​​
​Most Catholics don’t know how to help—so they don’t.
OUR RESPONSE
SOFESA convened 8 national Catholic leaders with 61+ years of experience to envision a Church that doesn't just serve the poor—but walks with them.
What Emerged
A EUCHARISTIC MISSION
​FORMATION → TRANSFORMATION
From community
to communion
From “doing for”
to “being with”​​
​Insights & Takeaways
Root Cause
Homelessness is a breakdown in relationships, not just resources.
Shift the Lens
We’re not fixing problems—we’re accompanying people.
Challenge the Culture
Risk, busyness, and fear block true engagement.
Walk With, Not Past
Relationship-first models (e.g., food truck, walking routes) create trust.
Catholic Culture Reimagined
A parish that includes both the housed and homeless.