Themes of Catholic Social Teaching

Catholic Social Teaching, I've never heard of that? 

In Catholic tradition, there are seven common themes known as the Seven Themes of Catholic Social Teaching. These seven themes are:

These themes are essential elements of our faith and emerge from the truth of what God has revealed to us about himself. 

Life and Dignity of the Human Person

The Life and Dignity of the Human Person demonstrates the value of every human life. This theme emphasizes that all life is sacred and the dignity of the human person is the foundation of a moral vision for society. We can see the use of this theme in the Book of Deuteronomy: “Cursed is anyone who leads a blind person astray on the road. And all the people will reply, ‘Amen” (Deuteronomy 27:18-19). As God's children, we are called to help and value the lives of those around us. The intellectually disabled rely on the kindness of those around them. God encourages us to lead those who need guidance and display kindness to those who need it. 



Option for the Poor and Vulnerable

The Option for the Poor and Vulnerable emphasizes that all life is sacred. The Option for the Poor and Vulnerable calls us to care for those who need assistance. Assisting the poor and vulnerable can mean donating to various charities and organizations or volunteering at organizations for the intellectually disabled. The Book of Proverbs says, “Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are destitute. Open your mouth, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy” (Proverbs 31:8-9). God calls us to advocate for those who cannot advocate for themselves. This scripture encourages us to open our mouths, judge by what is right, and defend the rights of the vulnerable.