OVERVIEW
The Church’s Social Teaching is a rich treasure of wisdom about building a just society and living lives of holiness amidst the challenges of modern society. Following is a brief reflection on several of the key themes that are at the heart of our Catholic social tradition. The Principles of Catholic Social Teaching adopted by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
Below are relevant Catholic Social Teaching Documents of the Catholic Church:
Call to Family, Community & Participation
The healthy organization of society through the institutions of marriage, family, and community promotes human flourishing. We are called to strengthen and support these institutions and to participate in seeking the common good.
Rights & Responsibilities
Every person has a fundamental right to life & to the needs required for human decency: food, clothing, shelter, medical care, rest, & necessary services. We have corresponding responsibilities to one another, our families & our society.
The Dignity of Work &the Rights of Workers
Workers have the right to productive work, to decent and fair wages, to the organization and joining of unions, to private property, and to economic initiative.
Care for God’s Creation
We show respect for our Creator by our stewardship for God’s creation. We work for sustainability, reduce contributions to climate change, and prioritize the poor.
Solidarity
We are one human family whatever our national, racial, ethnic, economic, and ideological differences. The Gospel calls us to be our brothers’ and sisters’ keepers across all borders, promoting peace in a world surrounded by violence and conflict. “If you want peace, work for justice” (Pope Paul VI).