Catholic Social Teaching

Catholic Social Teaching works to promote and protect the dignity of all of God’s creation.

Life and Dignity of the Human Person

As Catholics, we believe that human life is sacred. The belief in the dignity of humanity is the base of all Catholic Social Teaching, and we believe that every life is precious, humans are more important than things, and institutions should enhance the lives and dignity of humans.

Call to Family, Community, and Participation

Our society should work to better humanity and the potential of individuals to grow and thrive. Family is a core social institution that should be supported and promoted. All people should have the ability to participate in society for the betterment and wellbeing of all, especially those in vulnerable positions.

Rights and Responsibilities

In order to promote a healthy community, we must be responsible for protecting human rights. Every person deserves to live and have their basic needs met. We all have responsibilities to our communities to protect these rights. 

Preferential Option for the Poor

We must put the wellbeing of our society’s most vulnerable members first. By bettering the support for the poor, we better our community as a whole.

The Dignity of Work and the Rights of Workers

Work should be a way to participate in the continuation of the work of God’s creation. The economy should work to serve people, to provide them with fair compensation, productive work, private property, economic power, and organization of unions.

Solidarity

We believe that we are one human family, regardless of differences, and we must protect others as if they are our siblings. As we work toward solidarity with others, we pursue justice and peace in a world plagued by conflict.

Care for God’s Creation

By showing care for others, we show our care for God. We are called to protect the Earth and all of its inhabitants.