Bush cites Catholic programs as examples of faith-based success

Published: 2004-06-02

WASHINGTON (CNS) -- President Bush June 1 recognized Migration and Refugee Services of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops as an example of faith-based initiatives that work. Speaking at a White House conference on faith-based and community initiatives, Bush cited the cases of two refugees whose resettlement in the United States has been handled through Catholic agencies as examples of people whose lives have been changed through their association with faith-based organizations. Operating on a contract basis for the federal government, the Catholic Church has for decades resettled more refugees in the United States than any other entity. Like people with addictions or children with parents in prison, refugees are among those who benefit from social service programs run by people whose motivation comes from religious faith, Bush said. "That's what the faith-based and community initiative is all about," Bush said. "How do we gather up the strength of the country, the vibrancy of faith-based programs? The social entrepreneurs -- how do we encourage them?"

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