When people hear the word "Church," they often think of sacraments, prayer, or doctrines about God. But there is another deeply important dimension to the Church’s mission—her social teaching. This is the Church’s reflection on how our faith must shape the way we live not only in private, but in public life—in our families, workplaces, communities, economies, and governments.

Rooted in the Gospel

The Social Teaching of the Church is rooted in the life and message of Jesus Christ, who proclaimed good news to the poor, healed the brokenhearted, and stood up for the marginalized. His example shows us that faith cannot be separated from concern for others—especially the most vulnerable. This teaching is not a political ideology or an optional extra; it is an essential expression of our Catholic faith.

What Is It Exactly?

Catholic Social Teaching (CST) is a collection of principles, teachings, and guidelines that the Church has developed over time to help Catholics respond to the social, economic, and political issues of the world with justice, compassion, and love.

It draws from:

• Sacred Scripture

• Tradition and teachings of the Church

• Documents and encyclicals from Popes

• Voices of saints, theologians, and Church councils

A Brief History

The formal beginning of modern Catholic Social Teaching is marked by Pope Leo XIII’s encyclical Rerum Novarum (1891). In it, he addressed the rights of workers, the responsibilities of employers, and the need for justice in economic life. Since then, Popes and bishops have continued to reflect on issues such as poverty, peace, human rights, and the environment.

Some key documents include:

• Rerum Novarum – Pope Leo XIII (1891)

• Quadragesimo Anno – Pope Pius XI (1931)

• Pacem in Terris – Pope John XXIII (1963)

• Populorum Progressio – Pope Paul VI (1967)

• Centesimus Annus – Pope John Paul II (1991)

• Laudato Si’ – Pope Francis (2015)

• Fratelli Tutti – Pope Francis (2020)

The Core Principles

Catholic Social Teaching is built on several core principles:

1. Human Dignity – Every person is created in the image of God and must be respected and protected.

2. Common Good – Society should be organized so that all people can flourish.

3. Solidarity – We are one human family and must care for one another.

4. Subsidiarity – Decisions should be made at the lowest level possible, respecting individual and community rights.

5. Rights and Responsibilities – Human rights must be protected and duties fulfilled.

6. Option for the Poor – The needs of the poor and vulnerable must come first.

7. Dignity of Work and Workers’ Rights – Work is a form of participation in God’s creation and must be respected.

Not Just Theory—A Way of Life

Catholic Social Teaching is not just a set of ideas to agree with—it is a call to action. It urges Catholics to live their faith by being:

• Just and fair in how we treat others

• Responsible citizens who work for peace and justice

• Stewards of creation

• Advocates for the poor and voiceless

Whether we are business owners, teachers, voters, parents, or students, the Church invites us to see every aspect of life through the lens of the Gospel.

Why It Matters Today

In a world facing war, injustice, poverty, and environmental crises, the Church’s social teaching offers a moral compass. It challenges us not to look away from suffering or injustice but to respond with faith, courage, and love.

In Conclusion:

The Social Teaching of the Church is the Gospel lived in society.
It reminds us that faith is not just about what happens in church, but also what happens in the world—and how we respond to it.