The Waldensian and Methodist churches, as other Christian denominations, have always tried to maintain a significant presence in the fields of social service and caring ministries: hospitals, homes for the elderly, orphanages, as well as schools.

To define this aspect of church life, a word taken from the Gospel is used: "Diaconia". The word comes from the Greek "diakonos",servant,meaning therefore service. The deacons of the early Church worked among the poor of the community.
Today the Waldensian Synod, together with the Caring Ministries Committee (C.S.D.) runs homes for the elderly in the Valleys, in Toscana and in Sicily; another field of service which has developed through the years, though not exactly a social ministry, is that of hospitality. There are holiday centres and guest houses in Torre Pellice, Florence, Venice, Vallecrosia and on the island of Elba.

The Waldensian and Methodist churches are still inspired by the decision taken by many Protestants during Risorgimento (the process of national unification in Italy of the 19th century) to take an active part in the life of the nation by preaching the Gospel. They have continued with this commitment, taking their stand on problems relating to the life of the nation.
Consequently, they are dedicated to the cause of religious freedom, minority groups and are involved in issues concerning immigration. They take active part in such organizations as the Red Cross, Amnesty International, the Reconciliation Movement and the European Federation. One of their best known exponents, Tullio Vinay, used his influence for peace in the Vietnam War.
Underlying these commitments is the conviction that the Christian life is essentially the result of a personal and responsable choice.