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by CAPP-USA<\/span><\/h5>\n <\/p>\n
\n![\"Catholic](\"https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/Pope-Francis-waves-to-crowd-in-St.-Peters.jpg\")
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Catholic quotes about the Church’s social teaching from the Magisterium.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
Magisterial Quotes from Catholic Social Teaching<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n
Catholic Social Teaching (CST) has evolved over time, beginning with Pope Leo XIII’s 1891 encyclical Rerum Novarum<\/a>\u00a0in which he addressed the rights and conditions of workers during the Industrial Revolution. Since then, popes and Church councils have contributed to CST, addressing the challenges of each generation.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\nIt is difficult to claim the \u201cbest\u201d quotes from Catholic social teaching, but here are twenty-five that capture its richness.\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\nWhat is Catholic Social Teaching?<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n
Catholic Social Teaching is a body of doctrine that \u201cseeks to apply the essence of Christian moral principles to life in society. It is not an economic or political program, but it offers a powerful way of thinking about what the common good requires, and how structures in society can promote or undermine human well-being and the requirements of justice.\u201d (Vincent Cardinal Nichols\u2019, Archbishop of Westminster, foreword to: Just Money: How Catholic Social Teaching <\/span>can Redeem Capitalism<\/span> by Clifford Longley; Published by Theos, 2014)<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\nCST is not just a set of ideas. CST is meant to inspire action, encouraging Catholics and all people of good will to work toward a more just and equitable society.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n\n- “The social message of the gospel must not be considered a theory, but above all else a basis and motivation for action.” (Pope St. John Paul II, 57)<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n
- Absent CST \u201ceach individual becomes the criterion for measuring himself and his own actions\u2026This leads to an effective lack of concern for others\u201d. <\/span>(Pope Francis)<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
The Three Principles of Catholic Social Teaching<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n
Dignity of the Human Person<\/strong>: Every person is created in the image and likeness of God and has inherent dignity and value. This principle underlines the importance of respecting and protecting human life at all stages and is the prime principle of CST. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\nSolidarity<\/strong>: Solidarity is about recognizing that we are all part of one human family and that we have a responsibility to care for one another, particularly the poor and marginalized.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\nSubsidiarity<\/strong>: This principle holds that decisions should be made at the most local level possible, close to the people affected by them. Higher levels of authority should intervene only when necessary.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n\n- Catholic social teaching “\u2018rests on the threefold cornerstone of human dignity, solidarity and subsidiarity\u2019.” (Pope St. John Paul II, 55)<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n
- \u201c[T]he guiding principle\u2026of all of the Church\u2019s social doctrine, is<\/strong> a \u200bcorrect view of the human person<\/strong> \u200band of his unique value”. (Pope St. John Paul II, 11)<\/a> <\/span><\/span><\/li>\n
- \u201cFundamental rights are neither created by the lawmaker nor granted to the citizen. The<\/strong> value of human dignity<\/strong>\u2026takes precedence<\/strong> over all political decision-making\u201d. (Pope Benedict XVI)<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n
- Solidarity is radical. \u201c[A]ll men and women are called to live as one, each taking care of the other\u201d. We are \u201cour brothers\u2019 keeper\u201d. (Pope Francis, 3)<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n
- Subsidiarity “is a fundamental principle of social philosophy, fixed and unchangeable, that one should not withdraw from individuals and commit to the community what they can accomplish by their own enterprise and industry.” (Pope Pius XI, 79)<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
\nCatholic social teaching “\u2018rests on the threefold cornerstone of human dignity, solidarity and subsidiarity\u2019.” (Pope St. John Paul II, 55)<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n![\"Catholic](\"https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/A-mother-joyfully-holds-her-smiling-baby-in-her-arms.jpg\")
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The common good is achieved by implementing the principles of Catholic social teaching in society.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
The Results of Catholic Social Teaching<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n
The Common Good<\/strong>: The common good refers to the conditions that allow all people to reach their full potential and live in dignity. It emphasizes the well-being of all people, especially the most vulnerable.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n\n- Catholic social teaching results in the common good<\/strong>: \u201cthe sum total of social conditions which allow people, either as groups or as individuals, to reach their fulfillment more fully and more easily\u201d.\u00a0(Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1906)<\/a> <\/span><\/span><\/li>\n
- “There cannot be holistic development and universal common good unless people\u2019s spiritual and moral welfare is taken into account”.
<\/span><\/span>(Pope Benedict XVI, 76)<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n- Catholic social teaching leads to social justice, which occurs when \u201cassociations or individuals\u2026obtain what is their due, according to their nature and their vocation.<\/strong>\u201d\u00a0(Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1928)<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/li>\n
- Catholic social teaching combats \u201cspecific structures of sin which impede the full realization of those who are in any way oppressed by them\u201d. (Pope St. John Paul II, 38)<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
Catholic Social Teaching is Charity<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n
<\/strong>Charity typically refers to direct acts of kindness and assistance to those in immediate need. CST, on the other hand, addresses the root causes of social issues and seeks to transform society’s structures to promote justice, equality, and the common good.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\nCST is concerned with changing systems and institutions to prevent social problems from arising in the first place. And, as Pope Benedict XVI pointed out \u2013 this is charity!<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n\n- The practice of Catholic social teaching \u201cis <\/span>the institutional path \u2014 we might also call it the political path \u2014 of charity<\/strong>,\u00a0no less excellent and effective than the kind of charity which encounters the neighbor directly\u201d.\u00a0<\/span>(Pope Benedict XVI, 7)<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n
- \u201cCharity is at the heart of the Church\u2019s social doctrine.\u201d\u00a0(Pope Benedict XVI, 2)<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n
- And, \u201cevery Christian is called to practice charity in a manner corresponding to his vocation and according to the degree of influence he wields\u201d. (Pope Benedict XVI, 7)<\/a> <\/span><\/span><\/li>\n
- \u201cWorking for a just distribution of the fruits of the earth and human labor is not mere philanthropy. It is a moral obligation<\/strong>. For Christians, the responsibility is even greater: it is a commandment<\/strong>.\u201d (Pope Francis, 3.1)<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
\nThe practice of Catholic social teaching \u201cis the institutional path \u2014 we might also call it the political path \u2014 of charity, no less excellent and effective than the kind of charity which encounters the neighbor directly\u201d. (Pope Benedict XVI, 7)<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\nThe Themes of Catholic Social Teaching<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n
Preferential Option for the Poor<\/strong>: The Church teaches that the needs of the poor and vulnerable should be given priority in social and economic decisions. This principle challenges society to consider the impact of decisions on the most marginalized.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n\n![\"Catholic](\"https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/AdobeStock_218160647_7b370068633d19f6a27b9995d810b963.jpg\")
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The preferential option for the poor is a theme of Catholic social teaching.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
\n- A preferential option for the poor \u201cdemands before all else an appreciation of the immense dignity of the poor\u201d. (Pope Francis, 158)<\/a> <\/span><\/span><\/li>\n
- \u201cConsiderations of justice and equity can at times demand that those in power pay more attention to the weaker members of society, since these are at a disadvantage when it comes to defending their own rights and asserting their legitimate interests.\u201d (Pope St. John XXIII, 56)<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
Care for Creation<\/strong>: This principle emphasizes the importance of stewardship of the environment. Humans are called to protect and sustain the natural world, recognizing it as God’s creation.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n\n- The earth \u201ccries out to us because of the harm we have inflicted on her by our irresponsible use and abuse of the goods with which God has endowed her\u201d. (Pope Francis, 2)<\/a> <\/span><\/span><\/li>\n
- \u201cNature, in a word, is at our disposition and we are called to exercise a responsible stewardship over it.\u201d (Pope Francis)<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
Right to Private Property<\/strong>: Catholic Social Teaching recognizes the right to private property but insists this right be exercised with a sense of stewardship, ensuring that the needs of others, especially the poor, are considered.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n\n- \u201cThe practice of all ages has consecrated the principle of private ownership\u201d.\u00a0(Pope Leo XIII, 11)<\/a> <\/span><\/span><\/li>\n
- \u201cBy its very nature private property has a social quality which is based on the law of the common destination of earthly goods.\u201d (Gaudium et Spes, 71)<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
Universal Destination of Goods<\/strong> points out that the earth’s resources and goods are intended for the benefit of all people. It advocates for the fair and just distribution of the earth’s resources, ensuring that all people can access what they need for a dignified life. It serves as a foundational concept in Catholic Social Teaching, promoting the common good and social justice.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n\n- The universal destination of goods holds that \u201cThe goods of creation are destined for the entire human race\u201d\u00a0(Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2452)<\/a> <\/span><\/span><\/li>\n
- The universal destination of goods is for \u201cthe sustenance of all its members, without excluding or favoring anyone.\u201d (Pope St. John Paul II, 31)<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
Dignity of Work<\/strong>: the dignity of work refers to the inherent value and worth of human labor. This concept emphasizes that work is not merely a means to an end (such as earning a wage) but an essential aspect of human dignity and participation in God’s creation. The dignity of work is grounded in the belief that work reflects the creative nature of God, who worked to create the world and continues to sustain it.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n\n- \u201c[T]he door to the dignity of a man is work.\u201d (Pope Francis)<\/a> <\/span><\/span><\/li>\n
- \u201c[W]ork is a key, probably the essential key, to the whole social question\u201d. (Pope St. John Paul II, 3)<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
Bible Quotes that Establish Catholic Social Teaching<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/p>\nGod Quotes from Catholic Social Teaching<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_button button_url=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/what-is-catholic-social-teaching\/” button_text=”What is Catholic Social Teaching?” button_alignment=”center” module_class=”hover-btn-border” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ custom_button=”on” button_text_size=”30px” button_text_color=”#054368″ button_border_width=”0px” button_border_radius=”0px” button_font=”|600||on|||||” button_icon=”5||divi||400″ button_on_hover=”off” hover_enabled=”0″ locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” button_text_color__hover_enabled=”on” button_text_color__hover=”#054368″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_button button_url=”\/articles” button_text=”Back to Articles” button_alignment=”center” module_class=”hover-btn-border” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ custom_button=”on” button_text_size=”30px” button_text_color=”#054368″ button_border_width=”0px” button_border_radius=”0px” button_font=”|600||on|||||” button_icon=”5||divi||400″ button_on_hover=”off” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” button_text_color__hover_enabled=”on” button_text_color__hover=”#054368″][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Widget of Issues ” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_margin=”0px|0px|0px|0px||” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” saved_tabs=”all” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_5,3_5,1_5″ use_custom_gutter=”on” module_class=” et_pb_row_fullwidth” _builder_version=”4.13.0″ width=”100%” width_tablet=”100%” width_phone=”” width_last_edited=”on|desktop” max_width=”100%” max_width_tablet=”100%” max_width_phone=”” max_width_last_edited=”on|desktop” custom_margin=”0px|0px|0px|0px” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” custom_css_main_element=”width: 100% !important;” make_fullwidth=”on” global_module=”31023″ saved_tabs=”all” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_slider show_image_video_mobile=”on” module_class=”three-principles” _builder_version=”4.19.5″ header_font=”Open Sans|700|||||||” header_text_color=”#084369″ header_font_size=”24px” header_line_height=”1.5em” body_text_color=”#084369″ width=”100%” width_last_edited=”off|desktop” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin=”|||” custom_margin_tablet=”” custom_margin_phone=”||||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_padding=”||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_css_slide_image_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_css_slide_image_phone=”width: auto;||margin: 0 auto !important;”][et_pb_slide heading=”Three Key Principles” button_link=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/catholic-social-teaching-principles\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Three-Principles.png” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” image_alt=”Three circles containing symbols of the three principles of catholic social teaching: human dignity, subsidiarity, and solidarity.” image_tablet=”” image_phone=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/3-Key-principle-icons-resized.png” image_last_edited=”on|phone” _builder_version=”4.19.5″ header_font=”||||||||” background_color=”#ffffff” button_on_hover=”on” z_index=”0″ overflow-x=”hidden” overflow-y=”hidden” link_option_url=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/catholic-social-teaching-principles\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 300px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n
Catholic social teaching is built on three foundational principles –\u00a0<\/strong>Human Dignity<\/strong>,\u00a0Solidarity\u00a0<\/strong>and\u00a0Subsidiarity.\u00a0<\/strong>Human Dignity, embodied in a correct understanding of the human person, is the greatest. The others flow from it. Good governments and good economic systems find ways of fostering the three principles.<\/p>\n[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Human Dignity” button_link=”\/human-dignity\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Human-Dignity.png” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” _builder_version=”4.19.0″ header_font=”||||||||” background_color=”#ffffff” button_on_hover=”on” link_option_url=”\/human-dignity\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 200px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n
This means a correct understanding of the human person and of each person\u2019s unique value. All Catholic social teaching flows from this: the inherent dignity of every person that comes from being made in God\u2019s image.\u00a0<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Solidarity” button_link=”\/solidarity\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Solidarity.png” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” _builder_version=”4.19.0″ header_font=”||||||||” background_color=”#ffffff” button_on_hover=”on” link_option_url=”\/solidarity\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 200px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n
Solidarity is not \u201ca feeling of vague compassion or shallow distress at the misfortunes of others. It is a firm and persevering determination to commit oneself to the common good\u201d. (Pope St. John Paul II, 38)<\/a> Love of God and love of neighbor are, in fact, linked and form one, single commandment.<\/p>\n[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Subsidiarity” button_link=”\/subsidiarity\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Subsidiarity.png” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” _builder_version=”4.19.0″ header_font=”||||||||” background_color=”#ffffff” button_on_hover=”on” link_option_url=”\/subsidiarity\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 200px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n
Subsidiarity \u201cis a fundamental principle of social philosophy, fixed and unchangeable, that one should not withdraw from individuals and commit to the community what they can accomplish by their own enterprise and industry. So, too, it is an injustice and at the same time a grave evil and a disturbance of right order to transfer to the larger and higher collectivity functions which can be performed and provided for by the lesser and subordinate bodies\u201d. (Pope Pius XI)<\/a><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_slide][\/et_pb_slider][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” admin_label=”Image & Text” module_id=”newsletter” module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_color=”#eb7525″ z_index=”950″ display_conditions=”W3siaWQiOiI2MmUwMjk2ZS1lYmY5LTQwYWYtYmM0Mi0zZmEzYzUyNGNlYTEiLCJjb25kaXRpb24iOiJwYWdlIiwiY29uZGl0aW9uU2V0dGluZ3MiOnsiZGlzcGxheVJ1bGUiOiJpc05vdCIsImR5bmFtaWNQb3N0cyI6W3sibGFiZWwiOiJDYXJpdGFzIGluIFZlcml0YXRlIiwidmFsdWUiOiI0NzIxNCJ9XSwicG9zdFR5cGVMYWJlbCI6IlBhZ2VzIiwiYWRtaW5MYWJlbCI6IlBhZ2VzIiwiZW5hYmxlQ29uZGl0aW9uIjoib24ifSwib3BlcmF0b3IiOiJPUiJ9XQ==” custom_margin=”||” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_padding_phone=”0px||0px||false|false” animation_direction=”left” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” global_module=”45073″ saved_tabs=”all” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ make_equal=”on” module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.21.0″ custom_margin=”||” custom_padding=”0px||0px||true|false” animation_style=”fade” animation_delay=”200ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ module_class=”ds-vertical-align” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ text_font=”Playfair Display||||||||” text_text_color=”#ffffff” header_font=”||||||||” header_text_align=”center” header_text_color=”#eb7525″ header_2_text_color=”#ffffff” header_3_text_color=”#ffffff” header_3_font_size=”30px” header_4_font=”Playfair Display|700|||||||” header_4_text_color=”#ffffff” header_4_font_size=”32px” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”||” custom_padding=”||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
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Catholic quotes about the Church’s social teaching from the Magisterium.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
Magisterial Quotes from Catholic Social Teaching<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n
Catholic Social Teaching (CST) has evolved over time, beginning with Pope Leo XIII’s 1891 encyclical Rerum Novarum<\/a>\u00a0in which he addressed the rights and conditions of workers during the Industrial Revolution. Since then, popes and Church councils have contributed to CST, addressing the challenges of each generation.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\nIt is difficult to claim the \u201cbest\u201d quotes from Catholic social teaching, but here are twenty-five that capture its richness.\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\nWhat is Catholic Social Teaching?<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n
Catholic Social Teaching is a body of doctrine that \u201cseeks to apply the essence of Christian moral principles to life in society. It is not an economic or political program, but it offers a powerful way of thinking about what the common good requires, and how structures in society can promote or undermine human well-being and the requirements of justice.\u201d (Vincent Cardinal Nichols\u2019, Archbishop of Westminster, foreword to: Just Money: How Catholic Social Teaching <\/span>can Redeem Capitalism<\/span> by Clifford Longley; Published by Theos, 2014)<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\nCST is not just a set of ideas. CST is meant to inspire action, encouraging Catholics and all people of good will to work toward a more just and equitable society.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n\n- “The social message of the gospel must not be considered a theory, but above all else a basis and motivation for action.” (Pope St. John Paul II, 57)<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n
- Absent CST \u201ceach individual becomes the criterion for measuring himself and his own actions\u2026This leads to an effective lack of concern for others\u201d. <\/span>(Pope Francis)<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
The Three Principles of Catholic Social Teaching<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n
Dignity of the Human Person<\/strong>: Every person is created in the image and likeness of God and has inherent dignity and value. This principle underlines the importance of respecting and protecting human life at all stages and is the prime principle of CST. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\nSolidarity<\/strong>: Solidarity is about recognizing that we are all part of one human family and that we have a responsibility to care for one another, particularly the poor and marginalized.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\nSubsidiarity<\/strong>: This principle holds that decisions should be made at the most local level possible, close to the people affected by them. Higher levels of authority should intervene only when necessary.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n\n- Catholic social teaching “\u2018rests on the threefold cornerstone of human dignity, solidarity and subsidiarity\u2019.” (Pope St. John Paul II, 55)<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n
- \u201c[T]he guiding principle\u2026of all of the Church\u2019s social doctrine, is<\/strong> a \u200bcorrect view of the human person<\/strong> \u200band of his unique value”. (Pope St. John Paul II, 11)<\/a> <\/span><\/span><\/li>\n
- \u201cFundamental rights are neither created by the lawmaker nor granted to the citizen. The<\/strong> value of human dignity<\/strong>\u2026takes precedence<\/strong> over all political decision-making\u201d. (Pope Benedict XVI)<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n
- Solidarity is radical. \u201c[A]ll men and women are called to live as one, each taking care of the other\u201d. We are \u201cour brothers\u2019 keeper\u201d. (Pope Francis, 3)<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n
- Subsidiarity “is a fundamental principle of social philosophy, fixed and unchangeable, that one should not withdraw from individuals and commit to the community what they can accomplish by their own enterprise and industry.” (Pope Pius XI, 79)<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
\nCatholic social teaching “\u2018rests on the threefold cornerstone of human dignity, solidarity and subsidiarity\u2019.” (Pope St. John Paul II, 55)<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n<\/p>\n
The common good is achieved by implementing the principles of Catholic social teaching in society.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
The Results of Catholic Social Teaching<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n
The Common Good<\/strong>: The common good refers to the conditions that allow all people to reach their full potential and live in dignity. It emphasizes the well-being of all people, especially the most vulnerable.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n\n- Catholic social teaching results in the common good<\/strong>: \u201cthe sum total of social conditions which allow people, either as groups or as individuals, to reach their fulfillment more fully and more easily\u201d.\u00a0(Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1906)<\/a> <\/span><\/span><\/li>\n
- “There cannot be holistic development and universal common good unless people\u2019s spiritual and moral welfare is taken into account”.
<\/span><\/span>(Pope Benedict XVI, 76)<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n- Catholic social teaching leads to social justice, which occurs when \u201cassociations or individuals\u2026obtain what is their due, according to their nature and their vocation.<\/strong>\u201d\u00a0(Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1928)<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/li>\n
- Catholic social teaching combats \u201cspecific structures of sin which impede the full realization of those who are in any way oppressed by them\u201d. (Pope St. John Paul II, 38)<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
Catholic Social Teaching is Charity<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n
<\/strong>Charity typically refers to direct acts of kindness and assistance to those in immediate need. CST, on the other hand, addresses the root causes of social issues and seeks to transform society’s structures to promote justice, equality, and the common good.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\nCST is concerned with changing systems and institutions to prevent social problems from arising in the first place. And, as Pope Benedict XVI pointed out \u2013 this is charity!<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n\n- The practice of Catholic social teaching \u201cis <\/span>the institutional path \u2014 we might also call it the political path \u2014 of charity<\/strong>,\u00a0no less excellent and effective than the kind of charity which encounters the neighbor directly\u201d.\u00a0<\/span>(Pope Benedict XVI, 7)<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n
- \u201cCharity is at the heart of the Church\u2019s social doctrine.\u201d\u00a0(Pope Benedict XVI, 2)<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n
- And, \u201cevery Christian is called to practice charity in a manner corresponding to his vocation and according to the degree of influence he wields\u201d. (Pope Benedict XVI, 7)<\/a> <\/span><\/span><\/li>\n
- \u201cWorking for a just distribution of the fruits of the earth and human labor is not mere philanthropy. It is a moral obligation<\/strong>. For Christians, the responsibility is even greater: it is a commandment<\/strong>.\u201d (Pope Francis, 3.1)<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
\nThe practice of Catholic social teaching \u201cis the institutional path \u2014 we might also call it the political path \u2014 of charity, no less excellent and effective than the kind of charity which encounters the neighbor directly\u201d. (Pope Benedict XVI, 7)<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\nThe Themes of Catholic Social Teaching<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n
Preferential Option for the Poor<\/strong>: The Church teaches that the needs of the poor and vulnerable should be given priority in social and economic decisions. This principle challenges society to consider the impact of decisions on the most marginalized.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n\n<\/p>\n
The preferential option for the poor is a theme of Catholic social teaching.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
\n- A preferential option for the poor \u201cdemands before all else an appreciation of the immense dignity of the poor\u201d. (Pope Francis, 158)<\/a> <\/span><\/span><\/li>\n
- \u201cConsiderations of justice and equity can at times demand that those in power pay more attention to the weaker members of society, since these are at a disadvantage when it comes to defending their own rights and asserting their legitimate interests.\u201d (Pope St. John XXIII, 56)<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
Care for Creation<\/strong>: This principle emphasizes the importance of stewardship of the environment. Humans are called to protect and sustain the natural world, recognizing it as God’s creation.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n\n- The earth \u201ccries out to us because of the harm we have inflicted on her by our irresponsible use and abuse of the goods with which God has endowed her\u201d. (Pope Francis, 2)<\/a> <\/span><\/span><\/li>\n
- \u201cNature, in a word, is at our disposition and we are called to exercise a responsible stewardship over it.\u201d (Pope Francis)<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
Right to Private Property<\/strong>: Catholic Social Teaching recognizes the right to private property but insists this right be exercised with a sense of stewardship, ensuring that the needs of others, especially the poor, are considered.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n\n- \u201cThe practice of all ages has consecrated the principle of private ownership\u201d.\u00a0(Pope Leo XIII, 11)<\/a> <\/span><\/span><\/li>\n
- \u201cBy its very nature private property has a social quality which is based on the law of the common destination of earthly goods.\u201d (Gaudium et Spes, 71)<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
Universal Destination of Goods<\/strong> points out that the earth’s resources and goods are intended for the benefit of all people. It advocates for the fair and just distribution of the earth’s resources, ensuring that all people can access what they need for a dignified life. It serves as a foundational concept in Catholic Social Teaching, promoting the common good and social justice.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n\n- The universal destination of goods holds that \u201cThe goods of creation are destined for the entire human race\u201d\u00a0(Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2452)<\/a> <\/span><\/span><\/li>\n
- The universal destination of goods is for \u201cthe sustenance of all its members, without excluding or favoring anyone.\u201d (Pope St. John Paul II, 31)<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
Dignity of Work<\/strong>: the dignity of work refers to the inherent value and worth of human labor. This concept emphasizes that work is not merely a means to an end (such as earning a wage) but an essential aspect of human dignity and participation in God’s creation. The dignity of work is grounded in the belief that work reflects the creative nature of God, who worked to create the world and continues to sustain it.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n\n- \u201c[T]he door to the dignity of a man is work.\u201d (Pope Francis)<\/a> <\/span><\/span><\/li>\n
- \u201c[W]ork is a key, probably the essential key, to the whole social question\u201d. (Pope St. John Paul II, 3)<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
Bible Quotes that Establish Catholic Social Teaching<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/p>\nGod Quotes from Catholic Social Teaching<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_button button_url=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/what-is-catholic-social-teaching\/” button_text=”What is Catholic Social Teaching?” button_alignment=”center” module_class=”hover-btn-border” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ custom_button=”on” button_text_size=”30px” button_text_color=”#054368″ button_border_width=”0px” button_border_radius=”0px” button_font=”|600||on|||||” button_icon=”5||divi||400″ button_on_hover=”off” hover_enabled=”0″ locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” button_text_color__hover_enabled=”on” button_text_color__hover=”#054368″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_button button_url=”\/articles” button_text=”Back to Articles” button_alignment=”center” module_class=”hover-btn-border” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ custom_button=”on” button_text_size=”30px” button_text_color=”#054368″ button_border_width=”0px” button_border_radius=”0px” button_font=”|600||on|||||” button_icon=”5||divi||400″ button_on_hover=”off” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” button_text_color__hover_enabled=”on” button_text_color__hover=”#054368″][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Widget of Issues ” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_margin=”0px|0px|0px|0px||” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” saved_tabs=”all” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_5,3_5,1_5″ use_custom_gutter=”on” module_class=” et_pb_row_fullwidth” _builder_version=”4.13.0″ width=”100%” width_tablet=”100%” width_phone=”” width_last_edited=”on|desktop” max_width=”100%” max_width_tablet=”100%” max_width_phone=”” max_width_last_edited=”on|desktop” custom_margin=”0px|0px|0px|0px” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” custom_css_main_element=”width: 100% !important;” make_fullwidth=”on” global_module=”31023″ saved_tabs=”all” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_slider show_image_video_mobile=”on” module_class=”three-principles” _builder_version=”4.19.5″ header_font=”Open Sans|700|||||||” header_text_color=”#084369″ header_font_size=”24px” header_line_height=”1.5em” body_text_color=”#084369″ width=”100%” width_last_edited=”off|desktop” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin=”|||” custom_margin_tablet=”” custom_margin_phone=”||||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_padding=”||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_css_slide_image_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_css_slide_image_phone=”width: auto;||margin: 0 auto !important;”][et_pb_slide heading=”Three Key Principles” button_link=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/catholic-social-teaching-principles\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Three-Principles.png” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” image_alt=”Three circles containing symbols of the three principles of catholic social teaching: human dignity, subsidiarity, and solidarity.” image_tablet=”” image_phone=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/3-Key-principle-icons-resized.png” image_last_edited=”on|phone” _builder_version=”4.19.5″ header_font=”||||||||” background_color=”#ffffff” button_on_hover=”on” z_index=”0″ overflow-x=”hidden” overflow-y=”hidden” link_option_url=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/catholic-social-teaching-principles\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 300px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n
Catholic social teaching is built on three foundational principles –\u00a0<\/strong>Human Dignity<\/strong>,\u00a0Solidarity\u00a0<\/strong>and\u00a0Subsidiarity.\u00a0<\/strong>Human Dignity, embodied in a correct understanding of the human person, is the greatest. The others flow from it. Good governments and good economic systems find ways of fostering the three principles.<\/p>\n[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Human Dignity” button_link=”\/human-dignity\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Human-Dignity.png” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” _builder_version=”4.19.0″ header_font=”||||||||” background_color=”#ffffff” button_on_hover=”on” link_option_url=”\/human-dignity\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 200px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n
This means a correct understanding of the human person and of each person\u2019s unique value. All Catholic social teaching flows from this: the inherent dignity of every person that comes from being made in God\u2019s image.\u00a0<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Solidarity” button_link=”\/solidarity\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Solidarity.png” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” _builder_version=”4.19.0″ header_font=”||||||||” background_color=”#ffffff” button_on_hover=”on” link_option_url=”\/solidarity\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 200px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n
Solidarity is not \u201ca feeling of vague compassion or shallow distress at the misfortunes of others. It is a firm and persevering determination to commit oneself to the common good\u201d. (Pope St. John Paul II, 38)<\/a> Love of God and love of neighbor are, in fact, linked and form one, single commandment.<\/p>\n[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Subsidiarity” button_link=”\/subsidiarity\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Subsidiarity.png” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” _builder_version=”4.19.0″ header_font=”||||||||” background_color=”#ffffff” button_on_hover=”on” link_option_url=”\/subsidiarity\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 200px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n
Subsidiarity \u201cis a fundamental principle of social philosophy, fixed and unchangeable, that one should not withdraw from individuals and commit to the community what they can accomplish by their own enterprise and industry. So, too, it is an injustice and at the same time a grave evil and a disturbance of right order to transfer to the larger and higher collectivity functions which can be performed and provided for by the lesser and subordinate bodies\u201d. (Pope Pius XI)<\/a><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_slide][\/et_pb_slider][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” admin_label=”Image & Text” module_id=”newsletter” module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_color=”#eb7525″ z_index=”950″ display_conditions=”W3siaWQiOiI2MmUwMjk2ZS1lYmY5LTQwYWYtYmM0Mi0zZmEzYzUyNGNlYTEiLCJjb25kaXRpb24iOiJwYWdlIiwiY29uZGl0aW9uU2V0dGluZ3MiOnsiZGlzcGxheVJ1bGUiOiJpc05vdCIsImR5bmFtaWNQb3N0cyI6W3sibGFiZWwiOiJDYXJpdGFzIGluIFZlcml0YXRlIiwidmFsdWUiOiI0NzIxNCJ9XSwicG9zdFR5cGVMYWJlbCI6IlBhZ2VzIiwiYWRtaW5MYWJlbCI6IlBhZ2VzIiwiZW5hYmxlQ29uZGl0aW9uIjoib24ifSwib3BlcmF0b3IiOiJPUiJ9XQ==” custom_margin=”||” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_padding_phone=”0px||0px||false|false” animation_direction=”left” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” global_module=”45073″ saved_tabs=”all” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ make_equal=”on” module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.21.0″ custom_margin=”||” custom_padding=”0px||0px||true|false” animation_style=”fade” animation_delay=”200ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ module_class=”ds-vertical-align” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ text_font=”Playfair Display||||||||” text_text_color=”#ffffff” header_font=”||||||||” header_text_align=”center” header_text_color=”#eb7525″ header_2_text_color=”#ffffff” header_3_text_color=”#ffffff” header_3_font_size=”30px” header_4_font=”Playfair Display|700|||||||” header_4_text_color=”#ffffff” header_4_font_size=”32px” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”||” custom_padding=”||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
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Catholic Social Teaching (CST) has evolved over time, beginning with Pope Leo XIII’s 1891 encyclical Rerum Novarum<\/a>\u00a0in which he addressed the rights and conditions of workers during the Industrial Revolution. Since then, popes and Church councils have contributed to CST, addressing the challenges of each generation.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n
It is difficult to claim the \u201cbest\u201d quotes from Catholic social teaching, but here are twenty-five that capture its richness.\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n CST is not just a set of ideas. CST is meant to inspire action, encouraging Catholics and all people of good will to work toward a more just and equitable society.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n Solidarity<\/strong>: Solidarity is about recognizing that we are all part of one human family and that we have a responsibility to care for one another, particularly the poor and marginalized.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n Subsidiarity<\/strong>: This principle holds that decisions should be made at the most local level possible, close to the people affected by them. Higher levels of authority should intervene only when necessary.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n Catholic social teaching “\u2018rests on the threefold cornerstone of human dignity, solidarity and subsidiarity\u2019.” (Pope St. John Paul II, 55)<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n The common good is achieved by implementing the principles of Catholic social teaching in society.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n CST is concerned with changing systems and institutions to prevent social problems from arising in the first place. And, as Pope Benedict XVI pointed out \u2013 this is charity!<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n The practice of Catholic social teaching \u201cis the institutional path \u2014 we might also call it the political path \u2014 of charity, no less excellent and effective than the kind of charity which encounters the neighbor directly\u201d. (Pope Benedict XVI, 7)<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n The preferential option for the poor is a theme of Catholic social teaching.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Care for Creation<\/strong>: This principle emphasizes the importance of stewardship of the environment. Humans are called to protect and sustain the natural world, recognizing it as God’s creation.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n Right to Private Property<\/strong>: Catholic Social Teaching recognizes the right to private property but insists this right be exercised with a sense of stewardship, ensuring that the needs of others, especially the poor, are considered.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n Universal Destination of Goods<\/strong> points out that the earth’s resources and goods are intended for the benefit of all people. It advocates for the fair and just distribution of the earth’s resources, ensuring that all people can access what they need for a dignified life. It serves as a foundational concept in Catholic Social Teaching, promoting the common good and social justice.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n Dignity of Work<\/strong>: the dignity of work refers to the inherent value and worth of human labor. This concept emphasizes that work is not merely a means to an end (such as earning a wage) but an essential aspect of human dignity and participation in God’s creation. The dignity of work is grounded in the belief that work reflects the creative nature of God, who worked to create the world and continues to sustain it.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n Bible Quotes that Establish Catholic Social Teaching<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n God Quotes from Catholic Social Teaching<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_button button_url=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/what-is-catholic-social-teaching\/” button_text=”What is Catholic Social Teaching?” button_alignment=”center” module_class=”hover-btn-border” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ custom_button=”on” button_text_size=”30px” button_text_color=”#054368″ button_border_width=”0px” button_border_radius=”0px” button_font=”|600||on|||||” button_icon=”5||divi||400″ button_on_hover=”off” hover_enabled=”0″ locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” button_text_color__hover_enabled=”on” button_text_color__hover=”#054368″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_button button_url=”\/articles” button_text=”Back to Articles” button_alignment=”center” module_class=”hover-btn-border” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ custom_button=”on” button_text_size=”30px” button_text_color=”#054368″ button_border_width=”0px” button_border_radius=”0px” button_font=”|600||on|||||” button_icon=”5||divi||400″ button_on_hover=”off” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” button_text_color__hover_enabled=”on” button_text_color__hover=”#054368″][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Widget of Issues ” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_margin=”0px|0px|0px|0px||” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” saved_tabs=”all” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_5,3_5,1_5″ use_custom_gutter=”on” module_class=” et_pb_row_fullwidth” _builder_version=”4.13.0″ width=”100%” width_tablet=”100%” width_phone=”” width_last_edited=”on|desktop” max_width=”100%” max_width_tablet=”100%” max_width_phone=”” max_width_last_edited=”on|desktop” custom_margin=”0px|0px|0px|0px” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” custom_css_main_element=”width: 100% !important;” make_fullwidth=”on” global_module=”31023″ saved_tabs=”all” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_slider show_image_video_mobile=”on” module_class=”three-principles” _builder_version=”4.19.5″ header_font=”Open Sans|700|||||||” header_text_color=”#084369″ header_font_size=”24px” header_line_height=”1.5em” body_text_color=”#084369″ width=”100%” width_last_edited=”off|desktop” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin=”|||” custom_margin_tablet=”” custom_margin_phone=”||||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_padding=”||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_css_slide_image_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_css_slide_image_phone=”width: auto;||margin: 0 auto !important;”][et_pb_slide heading=”Three Key Principles” button_link=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/catholic-social-teaching-principles\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Three-Principles.png” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” image_alt=”Three circles containing symbols of the three principles of catholic social teaching: human dignity, subsidiarity, and solidarity.” image_tablet=”” image_phone=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/3-Key-principle-icons-resized.png” image_last_edited=”on|phone” _builder_version=”4.19.5″ header_font=”||||||||” background_color=”#ffffff” button_on_hover=”on” z_index=”0″ overflow-x=”hidden” overflow-y=”hidden” link_option_url=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/catholic-social-teaching-principles\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 300px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n Catholic social teaching is built on three foundational principles –\u00a0<\/strong>Human Dignity<\/strong>,\u00a0Solidarity\u00a0<\/strong>and\u00a0Subsidiarity.\u00a0<\/strong>Human Dignity, embodied in a correct understanding of the human person, is the greatest. The others flow from it. Good governments and good economic systems find ways of fostering the three principles.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Human Dignity” button_link=”\/human-dignity\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Human-Dignity.png” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” _builder_version=”4.19.0″ header_font=”||||||||” background_color=”#ffffff” button_on_hover=”on” link_option_url=”\/human-dignity\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 200px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n This means a correct understanding of the human person and of each person\u2019s unique value. All Catholic social teaching flows from this: the inherent dignity of every person that comes from being made in God\u2019s image.\u00a0<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Solidarity” button_link=”\/solidarity\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Solidarity.png” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” _builder_version=”4.19.0″ header_font=”||||||||” background_color=”#ffffff” button_on_hover=”on” link_option_url=”\/solidarity\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 200px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n Solidarity is not \u201ca feeling of vague compassion or shallow distress at the misfortunes of others. It is a firm and persevering determination to commit oneself to the common good\u201d. (Pope St. John Paul II, 38)<\/a> Love of God and love of neighbor are, in fact, linked and form one, single commandment.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Subsidiarity” button_link=”\/subsidiarity\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Subsidiarity.png” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” _builder_version=”4.19.0″ header_font=”||||||||” background_color=”#ffffff” button_on_hover=”on” link_option_url=”\/subsidiarity\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 200px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n Subsidiarity \u201cis a fundamental principle of social philosophy, fixed and unchangeable, that one should not withdraw from individuals and commit to the community what they can accomplish by their own enterprise and industry. So, too, it is an injustice and at the same time a grave evil and a disturbance of right order to transfer to the larger and higher collectivity functions which can be performed and provided for by the lesser and subordinate bodies\u201d. (Pope Pius XI)<\/a><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_slide][\/et_pb_slider][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” admin_label=”Image & Text” module_id=”newsletter” module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_color=”#eb7525″ z_index=”950″ display_conditions=”W3siaWQiOiI2MmUwMjk2ZS1lYmY5LTQwYWYtYmM0Mi0zZmEzYzUyNGNlYTEiLCJjb25kaXRpb24iOiJwYWdlIiwiY29uZGl0aW9uU2V0dGluZ3MiOnsiZGlzcGxheVJ1bGUiOiJpc05vdCIsImR5bmFtaWNQb3N0cyI6W3sibGFiZWwiOiJDYXJpdGFzIGluIFZlcml0YXRlIiwidmFsdWUiOiI0NzIxNCJ9XSwicG9zdFR5cGVMYWJlbCI6IlBhZ2VzIiwiYWRtaW5MYWJlbCI6IlBhZ2VzIiwiZW5hYmxlQ29uZGl0aW9uIjoib24ifSwib3BlcmF0b3IiOiJPUiJ9XQ==” custom_margin=”||” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_padding_phone=”0px||0px||false|false” animation_direction=”left” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” global_module=”45073″ saved_tabs=”all” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ make_equal=”on” module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.21.0″ custom_margin=”||” custom_padding=”0px||0px||true|false” animation_style=”fade” animation_delay=”200ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ module_class=”ds-vertical-align” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ text_font=”Playfair Display||||||||” text_text_color=”#ffffff” header_font=”||||||||” header_text_align=”center” header_text_color=”#eb7525″ header_2_text_color=”#ffffff” header_3_text_color=”#ffffff” header_3_font_size=”30px” header_4_font=”Playfair Display|700|||||||” header_4_text_color=”#ffffff” header_4_font_size=”32px” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”||” custom_padding=”||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ module_class=”ds-vertical-align” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_code _builder_version=”4.21.0″ custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”||0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]What is Catholic Social Teaching?<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n
Catholic Social Teaching is a body of doctrine that \u201cseeks to apply the essence of Christian moral principles to life in society. It is not an economic or political program, but it offers a powerful way of thinking about what the common good requires, and how structures in society can promote or undermine human well-being and the requirements of justice.\u201d (Vincent Cardinal Nichols\u2019, Archbishop of Westminster, foreword to: Just Money: How Catholic Social Teaching <\/span>can Redeem Capitalism<\/span> by Clifford Longley; Published by Theos, 2014)<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n\n
The Three Principles of Catholic Social Teaching<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n
Dignity of the Human Person<\/strong>: Every person is created in the image and likeness of God and has inherent dignity and value. This principle underlines the importance of respecting and protecting human life at all stages and is the prime principle of CST. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n\n
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<\/p>\nThe Results of Catholic Social Teaching<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n
The Common Good<\/strong>: The common good refers to the conditions that allow all people to reach their full potential and live in dignity. It emphasizes the well-being of all people, especially the most vulnerable.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n\n
<\/span><\/span>(Pope Benedict XVI, 76)<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/li>\nCatholic Social Teaching is Charity<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n
<\/strong>Charity typically refers to direct acts of kindness and assistance to those in immediate need. CST, on the other hand, addresses the root causes of social issues and seeks to transform society’s structures to promote justice, equality, and the common good.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n\n
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The Themes of Catholic Social Teaching<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n
Preferential Option for the Poor<\/strong>: The Church teaches that the needs of the poor and vulnerable should be given priority in social and economic decisions. This principle challenges society to consider the impact of decisions on the most marginalized.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<\/p>\n\n
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