Themes of Catholic Social Teachings
What are Catholic Social Teachings?
Catholic Social Teachings (CST) arise from the principles of the Church, the written messages from the Bible, and the beliefs of the Catholic Church. CST are about how we should live in the image of God in each dimension of the world. There are seven different teachings, and the mental health crisis in the high school education system violates two of them: the Life and Dignity of Each Human Person and the Call to Family, Participation, and Community.
"Since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us exercise them. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, then do it cheerfully." Romans 12:6-8
The Life and Dignity of Each Human Person
By seeing students as future employees instead of distinctive individuals, we are not seeing the potential they hold to change the world. We are not viewing them in God's image and we are overwhelming them with the unattainable goal of perfection. Children need to be heard, and when they are ignored, their dignity is violated.
The Call to Family, Participation, and Community
We are called to bring what we can to the table to help better the world and our communities. By forcing perfection onto everything, schools are not prioritizing helping their students bring what they can to the community, and it is denying our society of their unique gifts. We each have our own light that can make the world a brighter place, and schools are not helping us foster this light to change the world.
“A city set on a mountain cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and then put it under a bushel basket; it is set on a lamp stand, where it gives light to all in the house. Just so, your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.” Matthew 5:14-16