Social Justice
St. Thomas More Social Justice Commission: Faith in Action
At St. Thomas More, we believe that faith is more than words—it’s action. The Social Justice Commission is dedicated to living out the Gospel by serving all of God’s people and His creation in every season of life. Rooted in Catholic Social Teaching, we work to uplift the poor, protect the vulnerable, and advocate for justice and dignity for all.
Through charitable works, advocacy, and awareness, we seek to create a community where compassion meets action and love transforms lives. Whether through hands-on service, educational initiatives, or outreach programs, we invite you to join us in bringing Christ’s light into the world.
Together, we can be a voice for justice, a hand of mercy, and a heart of love.
Want to get involved? Contact our Chairperson, Kim Novak, at
kimberly.a.novak914@gmail.com.
Saint Thomas More Parish 2026 WORKS OF MERCY
THANK YOU, ST. THOMAS MORE!
Our hearts are full of gratitude for everyone who donated, volunteered, and showed up for the 2026 STM Works of Mercy Project on March 15!
Because of your generosity and willingness to serve:
🎒
36 backpacks were filled with essential items and delivered to InsideOut Reentry - supporting our neighbors as they transition back into the community.
🧵
36 blankets were lovingly created and shared with families at the Eastern Iowa Ronald McDonald House, offering comfort during difficult times.
These aren’t just items…
they are signs of hope, dignity, and love in action.
This is what it looks like to live the Gospel.
This is what it means to be the hands and heart of Christ.
Truly—many hands make light work, and this parish showed up in a beautiful way.
Thank you for your generosity.
Thank you for your compassion.
Thank you for being a community that makes a difference.
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
A current registered St. Thomas More parishioner must be the sponsor of any tithing grant request.
What is Tithing?
The word tithe means “tenth”. The practice of giving away 10% of an annual income, usually to a church or charitable organization. The first Biblical reference to tithing is recorded in Genesis 14:20, in which Abraham gave a tithe of his treasure to the high priest, Melchizedek.
The value of tithing varies among different churches. While some hold it as a principle, others use it as standard for giving. At St. Thomas More, the funds allocated for Tithing Grants come from our parish budget and proceeds from Fairtrade sales.
Types of Organizations
The Social Justice Commission’s goal is to fund organization’s operating at the local, national and international level each time Tithing Grants are allocated. Preference is given to organizations active in the following areas:
- Providing food, shelter, clothing, education and/or health care to the needy
- Prison Ministry
- Development of economic self-sufficiency
- Promotion of peace
- Promotion of the inclusion of diverse peoples as full members of our church and society
- The Commission will give preference to organizations that do not do corporate fundraising.
Requests
The range of Tithing Grant requests will be $50-$500. The Commission will consider larger requests, but may have to reduce the amount allocated. Overall, the Commission aims to fund as many requests as possible. No Tithing Grants will be given to fund salaries, to fund building campaigns or for operational expenses.
Each organization will usually be funded only once per year. However, the Commission meets twice a year to distribute grants; if there is additional money available, the Commission may consider funding an organization twice a year. There are a few exceptions to the previous guideline.
The Commission consistently funds specific local organizations twice per year:
- Common Fund (area churches contribute money that goes to community/individual need as determined by their board)
- Free Lunch Program
- Shelter House
- Community Crisis Services
- Parish Discretionary Fund (emergency assistance for parishioners/those in need, as determined by the STM office)
- Iowa City Catholic Worker Houses
- Habitat for Humanity
Please send/submit completed forms by August 31, 2026 to:
St. Thomas More Catholic Church
℅ Social Justice Commission
3000 12th Ave Coralville, IA 52241
Or online at:
Tithing Grant Application
Service & Volunteer Opportunity - Catholic Worker House
Mark your calendars: The STM Social Justice Commission will be serving our next meal at CWH. Upcoming Date and Sign up to help here:
Season of Creation Events at St. Thomas More Parish
Celebrating Peace and Creation!
We had a wonderful time at the Peace Pole blessing on September 20th, part of our Season of Creation celebration! It was a beautiful gathering, emphasizing our commitment to peace and stewardship of the Earth. Here are a few pictures capturing the moments of joy, reflection, and unity. Thank you to everyone who joined us in this special event as we embrace our responsibility to care for creation and foster peace in our community!
Domestic Help
