CATHOLIC SOCIAL JUSTICE Catholic Social Justice Catholic social

CATHOLIC SOCIAL JUSTICE

Catholic Social Justice • Catholic social justice is in relation to a life according to the Gospel of Christ. • We are disciples following in Christ’s footsteps to help and try to bring good and justice in the world.

Catholic Social Justice • Catholic social justice sums up the teachings of the Church on social issues. • It seeks to use the Gospel to shine light on social issues that arise in the complex world we live. • Social justice can be seen in the scripture of the Good Samaritan and in the second

Catholic Social Justice • Social justice can be seen in the scripture of the Good Samaritan and in the second greatest commandment: “Love your neighbours as I have loved you. ” • An active commitment to social justice is now recognised as essential to Catholic faith.

BASIC PRINCIPLES OF CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING

1. Human dignity Every person is made in the image of God. This alone makes each person precious and sacred.

2. Human rights and responsibilities • We are all made in the image of God. Because of this we have dignity. • Each person has rights as well as responsibilities to protect those rights.

3. Love and justice Love of neighbour is a demand for justice and charity.

4. Religious and social dimensions of life linked. The reign of God covers all aspects of life: social, economic, political and religious.

5. Participation in society All people must participate in society to contribute to the development of that community.

6. The role of work People have a right to work. They have a right to a fair just wage and to be treated fairly at work.

7. Economic Justice • The economy is for the people. • Resources are to be shared equitably by all (distribution of wealth).

8. Option for the poor • Jesus’ actions and interactions were directed to the vulnerable, poor and the outcast. • We are called to support such people.

9. Solidarity All people are connected by their humanity. They depend on one another for survival and development.

10. Stewardship • People are to respect and care for the earth and its resources. • These resources are to be distributed equally for all people.

11. Subsidiary Decision- making and responsibility for tasks are best suited in the smaller structures of community.

12. Common good • The purpose of government is to promote the common good of all people and ensure economic, social and political justice for all.

13. Promotion of peace • Peace comes only through justice. There needs to be right relationships among people and nations to build justice and to achieve peace.

14. Liberation from oppressive structures is an important part of Church activity. Liberation must encompass the whole person; spiritual, social, political etc.

“If you want peace, work for justice. If you want justice, defend life. ” - Pope John Paul II