Catholic Social Teaching

Key Themes

Life and dignity of the human person - We believe in the sanctity of human life and the inherent dignity of the human person in all stages of life, from conception to death.

Call to family, community, and participation - We believe people have a right and a duty to participate in society, seeking together the common good and well-being of all, especially the poor and vulnerable.

Rights and responsibilities – We believe that every person has a fundamental right to life and a right to those things required for human decency.

Option for the poor and vulnerable – We believe, in a society marred by deepening divisions between rich and poor, our tradition recalls the story of the Last Judgment (Mt 25:31-46) and instructs us to put the needs of the poor and vulnerable first. The Church follows the example of our Lord, who identified himself with the poor and the vulnerable. Giving priority concern to the poor and the vulnerable strengthens the health of the whole society. The poor have the first claim on our personal and social resources.

The dignity of work and the rights of workers – We believe that work is a form of continuing participation in God's creation. We believe the dignity of work is to be protected.

Solidarity –

We believe we are one human family whatever our national, racial, ethnic, economic and ideological differences.

Care for God’s creation – We believe we are called to protect people and the planet, living our faith in relationship with all of God's creation.