Our Lady of Grace Catholic Infant School

The All Saints' Trust

Catholic Social Teaching

Catholic Social Teaching (CST) is rooted in Scripture, formed by the wisdom of Church leaders, and influenced by grassroots movements. 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.

An essential part of the Catholic faith, the key values of Catholic Social Teaching are found at the core of the Gospel.

 

Dignity

Each of us is made in God’s image. Every person has an innate human dignity no one can take away. God said, ‘Let us make human-kind in our image, according to our likeness.’ Genesis 1:26 

 

Community and Participation

We live in community with others, growing together. We are called to be active participants in all that we do. We have a responsibility to be inclusive so that we allow all people to participate.  When each separate part works as it should, the whole body grows and builds itself up through love” Ephesians 4:16 

 

Creation 

Stewardship is all about caring for the many gifts that God has given to us. These include our environment, our own talents and other resources. All living things are connected so we must use God’s gifts responsibly to meet the needs of everyone, now and in the future. ‘The Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to till it and keep it.’ Genesis 2:15.

 

Solidarity and Peace 

Being in solidarity is recognising others as our brothers and sisters and actively working for their good. We are connected to people and places all over the world. All of you are one in Christ Jesus.’ Galatians 3:28 

Peace is not just the absence of war. It is part of God’s nature, and a value we should all seek to live out in our daily lives. Peace comes from both justice and love and is dependent upon people understanding one another.  ‘...those who promote peace have joy.’ Proverbs 12:20 

 

Option for the Poor

A preferential option for the poor means that we think first about the needs of those who are the most vulnerable. Jesus taught that when we feed the hungry, welcome the stranger, clothe the naked, look after the sick and visit those imprisoned, we are looking after Him. ‘Learn to do good; seek justice, rescue the oppressed, defend the orphan, plead for the widow.’ Isaiah 1:17

 

Dignity of the Worker

Catholic Social Teaching holds that work is dignified and an intrinsic good, and workers must always be respected and valued. The state has also the duty to protect the rights of all its people, and particularly of its weaker members, the workers, women and children. Work must be undertaken responsibly, and labour treated well, this includes how we approach the work we do, what it is we do with our work and how employers treat their employees.  'The hardworking farmer should be the first to receive a share of the crops. ' Timothy 2:6