Catholic Social Teaching & Work | Religion, Philosophy & Ethics for GCSE/IGCSE - Year 11 PDF Download

Catholic Social Teaching emphasizes the responsibility of individuals to contribute to societal improvement, particularly for those in greatest need.

Core Principles

Universal Dignity and Respect

Every person, as a creation of God, is entitled to equal dignity and respect.

Duty to Love Your Neighbor

The Gospels instruct Catholics to embody the principle of loving their neighbor.

“You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.”
(Mark 12:31)

Parable of the Good Samaritan

In the Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37), Jesus illustrates the concept of loving one’s neighbor, teaching that everyone should be regarded as a neighbor, deserving of love regardless of their identity.

Parable of the Sheep and the Goats

In the Parable of the Sheep and the Goats (Matthew 25:31-46), Jesus conveys that acts of kindness toward those who are hungry, thirsty, sick, strangers, or imprisoned are equivalent to serving God. Those who help others are promised a place in heaven.

“Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.”
(Matthew 25:40)

Jesus’ Ministry and Example

Jesus devoted much of his ministry to aiding those in need, setting a model for Catholics to follow today.

The Church as the Body of Christ

The Catholic Church, described as the "body of Christ" on earth, continues Jesus’ mission. St. Paul emphasized this to early Christians:

“Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it.”
(1 Corinthians 12:27)

Putting Faith into Action

The Church encourages Catholics to express their faith by loving their neighbors on local, national, and global levels. The Apostle John underscores the importance of caring for others as an expression of love for God:

“If anyone has material possessions and ignores his brother in need, how can he love God?”
(1 John 3:17)

Church Documents

The Second Vatican Council’s document Gaudium et Spes (1960s) asserts that everyone should have access to essentials for a truly human life, such as food, clothing, and shelter:

“There must be made available to all men everything necessary for leading a life truly human, such as food, clothing, and shelter.”
(Gaudium et Spes 26)

In Evangelii Gaudium (2013), Pope Francis urges Catholics to work toward integrating the poor fully into society.

Justice, Peace, and Reconciliation

Justice, peace, and reconciliation are central to Catholic Social Teaching, emphasizing that peace cannot exist without justice and the resolution of conflicts.

Teachings of Jesus

Jesus taught that blessings come through actions such as showing mercy, promoting peace, and pursuing justice, even in the face of persecution:

“Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
(Matthew 5:7, 9-10)

Catholic Beliefs Today

Catholics are called to:

• Treat others with fairness.
• Maintain peace and avoid conflict.
• Seek reconciliation promptly when conflicts arise.

Work of Catholic Social Agencies

Catholics are encouraged to love their neighbors at local, national, and global levels.

Local Engagement

At the local level, Catholics can:

• Participate in communal prayer.
• Engage with their local church and community.
• Contribute to local charity initiatives.

National Efforts

Nationally, Catholics can collaborate on community projects and partner with other churches to support charities with a broader impact, such as the Street Pastors initiative, where volunteers provide community support.

Global Outreach

Globally, Catholics raise awareness about inequality and persecution, supported by international Catholic charities.

CAFOD

The Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (CAFOD) is dedicated to combating poverty and injustice worldwide. Its logo features "CAFOD" in bold black letters, with the "O" replaced by a green cross and the full name below.

• Emergency Response: CAFOD provides immediate aid during emergencies and natural disasters.
• Long-Term Goals: It equips people with skills to support themselves, their families, and communities.
• Advocacy: CAFOD addresses inequality and conflict, advocating for justice and supporting refugees.

Trócaire

Trócaire, an Irish Catholic organization, delivers emergency aid and works to eradicate poverty and its root causes.

• Climate and Resources: It assists communities in managing the impacts of climate change and securing fair access to food, land, and resources.
• Advocacy: Trócaire campaigns against inequality and defends human rights in over 20 developing countries.

Missio

Missio, a UK-based organization, supports Catholic Churches in areas of extreme need.

• Support Services: It provides education and healthcare to alleviate poverty.
• Training: Missio supports the education of children and the training of future priests and nuns.