The following seven principles are the bedrocks of Catholic Social Teachings. They are central to our Catholic doctrine and practices and are meant to animate the life of every Catholic institution, family, and person. As such, they lie at the heart of Our Lady of the Greenwood Catholic School. We seek not only to teach them, but to provide a culture where they are lived out fully and naturally. Many of our school projects are centered on these teachings.
1. The Dignity of the Human Person
God made each of us; therefore, each of us is special. No matter who we are, what we look like, where we are from, or what we believe, all people have dignity and are special. We believe that every person is precious and that people are more important than things.
2. Call to Family, Community, and Participation
Jesus knew that people need other people. We all need our family, friends, and neighbors. He tells us it is right that in our lives we should have these important people who help us. Jesus says we must work to help them, too.
3. Rights and Responsibilities
All God’s people are entitled to food, work, clothes, a home, a school, and a doctor when they are sick. Therefore, every person has a fundamental right to life and a right to these things. Many people don’t have the things that they need. Jesus wants the people who already have what they need to help these other people. We call this a responsibility.
4. Option for the Poor and Vulnerable
Jesus teaches that people who have less than others must be helped and given what they need. It is just and right to share your wealth with the poor, and Jesus instructs us to put the needs of the poor and the vulnerable first.
5. The Dignity of Work and the Rights of Workers
Work is more than just a way to make a living; it is a form of continuing participation in God’s creation. Workers have rights to decent work, just wages, and safe working conditions. By our work, we help ourselves and others and show love to God.
6. Solidarity
Because we are all God’s children, we are all brothers and sisters. We are connected, even though we may be different from one another, live in different places, or speak different languages. This connection through God makes all people our neighbors. We must love our neighbor as Jesus taught. By loving all of our neighbors in the world, we can help bring peace and justice to the world.
7. Care for God’s Creation
We show our respect for the Creator by our stewardship of creation. Caring for the Earth is not just an Earth day slogan; it is a requirement of our faith. We are called to protect people and the planet, living our faith in relationship with all of action.
