why are the themes of catholic social teaching important? Flashcards
Why Catholic Social Teaching (CST) is Important:
Promotes Justice and Human Dignity – CST emphasizes that all people are created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27), meaning every person has inherent dignity. The Catholic Church teaches, “A just society can become a reality only when it is based on the respect of the transcendent dignity of the human person” (Catechism of the Catholic Church 1929). Many Christians, including Catholics and Anglicans, believe in upholding social justice as part of their faith.
Encourages Helping the Poor – CST aligns with Jesus’ teachings about caring for the poor and vulnerable. Jesus said, “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Matthew 25:40). Catholics emphasize this through principles like the “preferential option for the poor.” Evangelical Christians also support charity but may focus more on personal acts of kindness rather than structural change.
why might it not be as important
Why CST Might Not Be Seen as Important:
Not All Christians Follow Catholic Teachings – Protestants, such as Baptists and Pentecostals, may not prioritize CST because they focus on personal faith and salvation rather than structured social teachings. Some may believe that faith alone (sola fide) is the key to Christian living, rather than following specific social doctrines.
Difficult to Apply in a Secular World – Some argue that CST ideals, such as economic justice, are difficult to implement in capitalist societies. While Pope Francis has criticized economic inequality (“An economy of exclusion and inequality kills” – Evangelii Gaudium, 53), some Christians believe that personal responsibility and free markets are more effective in reducing poverty. Conservative Christians may argue that government intervention contradicts the principle of free will.
