FCCB Hosts Campus Ministry Liaison Day at the Capitol

Earlier this year, the FCCB launched a new program to inform and engage college students throughout the state on public policy issues of concern to the bishops of Florida. The Campus Ministry Liaison Program provides students who are active in their campus Catholic ministries the opportunity to reflect and act on the social and moral teachings of the Church and learn how these teachings apply to the laws of our state and nation.

Student liaisons are encouraged to provide public policy updates to their campus ministry peers and to encourage their peers to participate in opportunities to take actions on specific issues. Liaisons stay informed on FCCB public policy priorities and activities through electronic communications, regular conference calls, and an annual Catholic Campus Ministry "Day at the Capitol."

On March 20 and 23, FCCB hosted its first class of campus ministry liaisons for a one day program. In the morning, liaisons received presentations on FCCB's mission and priorities, Catholic Social Teaching and is application to both charity and social justice, and the legislative process. Liaisons spent the afternoon at the capitol and were able to see lawmaking in action. Time was also spent visiting with legislators and staff, including Representatives Danny Burgess (R-Zephyrhills) and Thad Altman (R-Indialantic) and Katie Betta, Deputy Chief of Staff for Senate President Joe Negron (R-Palm City). Betta is a Florida State University Catholic Student Union alumna.

"Through the program FCCB will increase its ability to reach and inspire a younger generation, as well as benefit from their energy and ideas," said Michele Taylor, FCCB associate director for communications. "It is our hope that over time, as additional liaisons are assigned and students graduate, the program will yield greater interest and increased involvement in political life by our Catholic faithful."

Pictured above left: L to R - Katie Betta with student liaisons Emily Vitale (Stetson University), Brianna Doyle (Florida State University), and Jared Iserman (University of West Florida)

Pictured right: Rep. Thad Altman with liaison Natalie Kendziorski (University of South Florida)