Catholic Social Teaching
What is Catholic Social Teaching (CST)
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. At La Salette we have commissioned our own images and scripture to help inspire our learning, chosen by our (pupil) R.E Leaders and staff. We have linked these teachings with resources provided by CAFOD to guide us our understanding of each principle.
How do we deliver the principles of Catholic Teaching at La Salette?
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. We have chosen 7 principle themes to focus our understanding.
Human Dignity
We believe very human person is made in the image and likeness of God. This is a gift that we all share as fellow human beings; we are all infinitely loved by our Creator. God is present in every human person, regardless of religion, culture, nationality, orientation or economic standing. Each one of us is unique and beautiful. We are called to treat every person and every creature with loving respect.
Community and Common Good
The common good means that the fruits of the earth belong to everyone. No one should be excluded from the gifts of creation.
Promoting Peace
Peace is a cornerstone of our faith. Christ, the Prince of Peace, sacrificed himself with love on the cross. We see in our faith an opportunity to provide peace through our words, actions and prayer.
Help for the Poor & Vulnerable
This principle 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. We are called to protect and aid those in need.
Dignity of Workers and Participation
The Church teaches us that earning a fair living and having an equal voice that can be heard is essential in treating people with dignity. It is a call to put the human person above greed and profit.
Solidarity
Solidarity arises when we remember that we belong to each other. We reflect on this in a special way at Mass. The Catechism of the Catholic Church states, “The Eucharist commits us to the poor. To receive in truth the Body and Blood of Christ given up for us, we must recognise Christ in the poorest.
Caring for Creation
In the first pages of the Bible we read how God created the sun and the stars, the water and earth, and every creature. We believe Christ is the redeemer of all creation. The Earth is a gift from God and we are its protectors and custodians - caring for our world is to care for the gifts God has given us.