Social Justice-Catholic Themes

Social Justice concerns itself with our responsibility to ensure that all people are given a 'fair go'.

Some issues that Social Justice aims to cover to are:

• Poverty
• Child Labour
• Refugees
• Homelessness
• Hunger

Dignity of the human person

Dignity is about pride and self-respect. It is based on the idea that the person is made in the image of God.

Common Good and Community

Humans are sacred and social, we live and grow together and must be valued in the wider community

Option for the Poor

Society is tested on how it treats the poor and venerable. It needs to stop the poverty cycle before it gets worse with the help of other community members.

Rights and Responsibilities

Every person has a right to live and a right to have the things required for Human Decency such as

• Shelter
• Food
• Clothing
• Employment
• Healthcare
• Education

It is our responsibility to give others these rights.

Role of Government

The government's role is to promote human dignity and give people their rights. Everyone has a right to participate in politics so the government can achieve it's goals.

Economic Justice

The economy must serve people and give them the right to fair wages and safe working conditions. No-one is allowed to have excessive wealth while others lack the basic neccesities in life.

Stewardship of God's creation

God gave the gifts of the earth as a gift and we have the responsibility to care for these goods as stewards not comsumers. How we treat the environment is a measure of our stewardship and respect for God.

Promotion of Peace and disarment

Catholic teaching promotes peace which is closely related to justice and is dependant upon right order amongst human beings.It involves mutual respect and confidence between people and their and nations.

Participation

Everyone has their own right to participate in society because it is a requirement of justice and dignity. No one should be excluded or unable to participate in society.

Global Solidarity and Development

Everyone has a responsibility to care for each other and respect our differences. By working together, we can promote rights of nations and peoples and strive for justice.

Questions about Community

1. Give an example of a community you are part of

-Stella Maris Community

2. How is this community both sacred and social?

-It teaches the values of God while you are able to learn in a social environment with your friends.

3. What is the major test of a moral society?

-How much attention it gives to the poor/ special needs, how it distributes it's money and how it organises itself in an even and fair way.

4.In what way does this community look after the poor?

-By collecting donations from students and holding events to raise money.