USCCB- 4 key RESOURCEs
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus lays out the radical values of the Kingdom of God. The Beatitudes challenge us to be poor in spirit, merciful, pure of heart, peacemakers, and courageous in the face of persecution. But how do we take those words and live them in a modern world?
Thankfully, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) is more than a governing body—it’s a guidepost for everyday Catholic life. Through their website, they offer practical tools that help lay Catholics walk the talk, grow spiritually, and serve with intention.
Here are four must-know USCCB resources that can help you live out the Beatitudes right now.
1. Daily Readings + Free Online Bible
Each day, the USCCB posts the Mass readings, complete with audio recordings and occasional video reflections. Whether you’re reading solo or with your family, this resource invites you into the rhythm of the Church year. But there’s more: The full Bible is also available for free on their site, complete with:
Excellent footnotes (no need to chase endless clickable cross-references),
Beautifully written introductions to every book of the Bible,
Clear explanations of themes, authorship, and historical context.
Why it matters: “Blessed are the poor in spirit...” God knows human life is full of challenges so He gave us the Bible as the guide. Daily Scripture isn’t just a good habit—it’s how we learn to see the world the way Jesus sees it.
2. The Catechism of the Catholic Church Online
Want to grow in your faith with confidence and clarity? The USCCB hosts a full digital version of the Catechism, making Church teaching accessible to everyone for free—whether you’re learning in a Bible study, responding to questions from a friend, or digging into prayer on your own.
The interface is beautiful, easy to navigate, and perfect for reflection or study.
Why it matters: “Blessed are the pure of heart, for they shall see God.” A pure heart is formed through truth. The Catechism helps us align our lives with the wisdom of the Church.
3. Engaging and Sharable Video Content
The USCCB’s video offerings are visually engaging, spiritually rich, and incredibly user-friendly. Whether you’re a catechist, parent, or just curious Catholic, there’s something here for you.
Notable video series include:
“Five Minutes with a Bishop” – Getting to know our Shephards and quick take aways for daily life.
“Faithful Citizenship” – A powerful teaching tool for personal \use in response to CCC2238-2243.
“Bishop Reflections” – Timely reflections for feast days and seasons.
Why it matters: “Blessed are the meek…” These videos teach with gentleness and clarity—and they’re perfect to share with others hungry for the truth.
4. Resources for Living the Beatitudes through Service & Justice
Here’s where the Beatitudes go from theory to action. The USCCB provides robust, easy-to-access ministries that help you respond to Christ’s call to serve the vulnerable.
Office of Laity, Marriage, Family Life, and Youth
usccb.org/committees/laity-marriage-family-life-and-youth
A wealth of information on challenging, but highly relevant, topics relating to Christian living in the modern world. Topics include: Natural Family Planning, Marriage, Response to Pornography, and even Sports Ministry.
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness…”
Respect Life Ministry
Walking with Moms in need, support for unborn life, post-abortion healing, and further resources illuminating Jesus' message, "I came so that they might have life" (John 10:10).
“Blessed are the merciful…”
Pastoral Care for the Sick & Elderly
usccb.org/committees/divine-worship/catholic-care-sick-and-dying
usccb.org/topics/marriage-and-family-life-ministries/grandparents-elderly
Guides for lay ministers, caregivers, and Eucharistic visitors to serve the homebound, grieving, or dying.
“Blessed are those who mourn…”
Hispanic/Latino Affairs
usccb.org/committees/hispaniclatino-affairs
Ministry and small group leaders looking to support Hispanic/Latino communities can find videos, resources, and information on marriage resources, V Encuentro, and national organizations to explore.
“Blessed are the peacemakers…”
Why This Matters for Lay Catholics
Being Catholic isn’t just about what we believe—it’s about what we strive to become—like Christ in our external actions and internal dispositions. The USCCB helps us become people who reflect the mercy, humility, and hope of the Gospel.
Oh, and if you’re on social media, definitely check out @usccb on Instagram for bite-sized Scripture, saint quotes, and updates from the life of the Church.
Final Thoughts
The Sermon on the Mount is not a suggestion—it’s a commission. The resources from the USCCB make it not only possible, but practical, to live those words with courage and love, with the grace of the Holy Spirit.
He is Goodness. Let’s reflect Him well.