Read more about some of the CST principles which inspire our work.
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.
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)
The Dignity Of The Human Person
‘Catholic social teaching believes that human beings, are made 'in the image and likeness of God' (Genesis 1:26-27).
This means that God is present in each and every one of us, regardless of race, origin, sex, orientation, culture, or economic standing. Catholic Social Teaching emphasises that we must see within each other a reflection of God and we must honour and respect this dignity as a divine gift.
Family and Community
Living in community is an essential expression of who we are.
Community does not just happen – it is something that all of us must work together to develop.
The Common Good
Pursuit of the common good is one of the ways in which Catholics practice solidarity: the common good is not just shared with those nearest to us, or even with all those in our own society; it is a universal principle, which fosters the unity of the whole human family. In practising it, Catholics are called to have particular care for the weak and vulnerable, because they are our neighbours in a distinguished way.
Rights and Responsibilities
The Catholic traditions teaches that human dignity can be protected and a healthy community can be achieved only if human rights are protected and responsibilities are met. Every person has a fundamental right to life and a right to those things required for human dignity. Corresponding to these rights are duties and responsibilities to one another, to our families and to the wider society.
Solidarity
Solidarity is about valuing our fellow human beings and respecting who they are as individuals.
Work
Catholic Social Teaching holds that work is dignified and an intrinsic good, and workers must always be respected and valued.
Caring for God's World
‘Creation is not a property, which we can rule over at will; or, even less, is the property of only a few: Creation is a gift, it is a wonderful gift that God has given us, so that we care for it and we use it for the benefit of all, always with great respect and gratitude.’ Pope Francis
Help the Poor and Vulnerable
‘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
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.
