|
Studies the Church's mission and teachings of social justice, raises awareness of social justice issues to the parish community and works to help change unjust social systems.
The Diocese of Erie Justice & Peace / Respect Life web page:.
http://www.eriercd.org/charities4g.asp
SEVEN BASIC THEMES OF
CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING
The life and dignity of the human person.
Human life is sacred. The dignity of the human person is the foundation of
a moral vision for society. Every person is precious and the measure of
every institution is whether it threatens or enhances the life and dignity of
the human person.
The call to family and community.
Human beings grow and achieve fulfillment in community. How we
organize our society directly affects human dignity and the capacity of
individuals to grow in community. People have a right and a duty to
participate in society, seeking together the common good and well-being of
all.
Human rights and responsibilities.
Every person has a fundamental right to life and right to those things
required for human decency - faith and family, food and shelter, health
care and housing, education and employment. Corresponding to these
rights are duties and responsibilities to one another, to our families, and to
the larger society.
The option for and with the poor.
A basic moral test for our society is how our most vulnerable members are
faring. The Gospel instructs us to put the needs of the poor and vulnerable
first.
The dignity of work and the rights of workers.
The economy must serve people, not the other way around. Work is more
than a way to make a living. It is a form of continuing participation in God’s
creation. If the dignity of work is to be protected, then the basic rights of
workers must be respected.
Solidarity.
We are one human family. Whatever our national, racial, ethnic, economic
and ideological differences, God calls us to practice the virtue of solidarity
which acknowledges that we are all really responsible for all.
Care for God’s creations.
We show our respect for the Creator by our stewardship of creation. We
are called to protect people and the planet, living our faith in relationship
with all of God’s creation.
---Sharing Catholic Social Teaching:
Challenges and Directions, USCC,©, 1998
For further information contact: Jean Kennedy Keck. Office of Parish Social Ministry,
Catholic Charities, Diocese of Erie at(8 14) 824-1254 or 1-800-374-3723 ext. 254
|
