Catholic Social Teaching

Catholic Social Teaching is based on the belief that God has a plan for creation, a plan to build His kingdom of peace, love and justice. It holds that God has a special place in this story for each of us, whoever we are.

Our part in this plan isn’t just limited to things ‘spiritual’, or things we might do on Sundays, but that it involves every aspect of our lives, from the things we pray about, to how we live as responsible global citizens.

It is very clear that Catholic Social Teaching is not just for adults – children need to learn and participate in the life of the Church too.

Our part at Our Lady of Compassion in this story is a kind-of vocation for the common good, a call to treat everyone as our brothers and sisters and is something that we all share.

Catholic social teaching is rooted in Scripture, formed by the wisdom of Church leaders. It is our moral compass, guiding us on how to live out our faith in the world. Our faith calls us to love God and to love our neighbours in every situation, especially our sisters and brothers living in poverty. Following in the footsteps of Christ, we hope to make present in our unjust and broken world, the justice, love and peace of God.

Human Dignity – We believe everyone is special

We believe every human person is made in the image and likeness of God. This is a gift that we all share as fellow human beings; we are all infinitely loved by our Creator. God is present in every human person, regardless of religion, culture, nationality, orientation or economic standing. Each one of us is unique and beautiful. We are called to treat every person and every creature with loving respect.

The common good – We believe in thinking of everyone

The common good means that the fruits of the earth belong to everyone. No one should be excluded from the gifts of creation.

Loving God,
We believe that we are all brothers and sisters.
Help us to think about what is good for everyone, not just ourselves.

Participation – We believe in taking part

People have a right and a duty to take part in shaping a more just and human society. We believe that everyone has special gifts and talents. Thank you for the gifts you have given us.  Help us to make sure everyone can use the talents you gave them.

Subsidiarity – We believe everyone should have a say

We are called to empower communities, to let everyone have a say. We believe that people who make decisions should listen to everyone. Help us make sure everyone is treated fairly and can have a say.

Stewardship of Creation – We believe in caring for God’s gifts

We are guardians of God’s creation, living sustainably and enhancing the wellbeing of our planet. We believe that the world is for everyone. We thank you for the gift of Creation. Help us to take care of the planet and all people who live on it.

Solidarity – We believe in showing we care

Solidarity arises when we remember that we belong to each other. We reflect on this in a special way at Mass. The Catechism of the Catholic Church states, “The Eucharist commits us to the poor. To receive in truth the Body and Blood of Christ given up for us, we must recognise Christ in the poorest.”

“In truth I tell you, in so far as you did this to one of the least of these brothers [or sisters] of mine, you did it to me.” (Matthew 25:40)

Option for the poor – We believe in putting people in most need first

The option for the poor reminds us of God’s preferential love for the poorest and most vulnerable people. God’s love is universal; he does not side with oppressors, but loves the humble.

“The spirit of the Lord is on me, for he has anointed me to bring the good news to the afflicted. He has sent me…to let the oppressed go free.” (Luke 4:18)

Distributive Justice – We believe in fair allocation of resources

Everyone should have access to their fair share of resources. We believe that the gifts of the world should be shared fairly. Help us to always be grateful for what we have and share generously with others.

Being Peacemakers – We believe that peace comes from justice and love

 “Peace… is an order that is founded in truth, nurtured and animated by charity, and brought into effect under the auspices of freedom.”

Peace is a cornerstone of our faith. Christ, the Prince of Peace, sacrificed himself with love on the cross.  We can be God’s instruments of peace through seeking justice. We believe you want to bring your peace to our homes, our communities and our world. Help us to be peacemakers, listening to and loving each other.