What is a characteristic of the communities formed by the Catholic Worker movement?

The Catholic Worker movement, founded by Dorothy Day and Peter Maurin in the 1930s, is primarily characterized by its emphasis on hospitality. These communities are rooted in the principles of serving the poor and marginalized, and they operate on the belief that everyone deserves dignity and care. Hospitality in this context involves not only providing shelter and food to those in need but also fostering a welcoming environment where individuals can feel valued and accepted.

The mission of the Catholic Worker movement is to embody the ideals of social justice and communal living. Its intentional communities often include houses of hospitality, where volunteers and individuals experiencing homelessness live together, sharing resources and support. This communal approach aligns closely with the movement's goals of simplicity, nonviolence, and direct service.

In contrast, exclusivity and luxury living do not align with the Catholic Worker principles, which advocate for inclusivity and a commitment to serving others rather than pursuing wealth and status. Urban development, while potentially relevant in some contexts, is not a defining characteristic of the movement's communities, as their focus is more on direct assistance and personal relationships than on urban planning or development projects.