On March 13, the Faculty of Philosophy and Social Sciences at the Catholic University of Braga hosted the “Strategic Meeting of Christian-Inspired Social Solidarity Institutions,” an initiative that brought together 62 participants and was marked by the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the Archdiocese of Braga and the Catholic University of Braga.

The agreement provides, among other measures, for a 10% discount on tuition for the Master’s in Applied Social Gerontology for social institutions associated with or members of the Archdiocese of Braga, reinforcing the commitment to the professional development of its staff and leaders.

One of the highlights of the program was the roundtable discussion titled “Caring with Purpose: Identity, Leadership, and the Future of Christian-Inspired Social Solidarity Institutions,” featuring Canon Avelino Marques Amorim, Dr. João Ferreira, Director of the Braga District Center of the Social Security Institute, Canon Luís Miguel Figueiredo Rodrigues, Director of the Faculty of Theology at the Catholic University; Dr. Alexandra Andrade, Director of Services at the Mascotelos Social and Parish Center; and Dr. Fernando Pimenta, Technical Director of the Santa Eulália de Tenões Social and Parish Center and the Divino Salvador de Valdreu Social Center.

This was followed by working groups focused on three themes: Christian identity, community-based leadership, and effective management without losing sight of the mission.

The meeting reaffirmed the importance of fostering opportunities for reflection and cooperation among Christian-inspired social institutions, strengthening networks, and charting a course for the future grounded in human dignity.