The social mission of the Church calls us to act to meet human needs, to reflect on social issues in light of Catholic social teaching, and to transform unjust social structures in our world.  The Office of Justice and Peace equips people of the diocese for this work and coordinates other social action ministries, including: Refugee and Immigration Services, Migrant Ministry, the Office for Black Catholics and Older Adult Ministry.  An important expression of global solidarity is our Haiti Twinning relationship with the Diocese of Hinche. 

Catholic Charities provide social services to individuals and families through two independent agencies. Catholic Charities of Eastern Virginia serves the eastern portion of the Diocese while Commonwealth Catholic Charities serves the central and western portions.