Catholic Social Teaching: Bigger Than It Appears

by Brandon Jubar

In today's high tech world, it's easy to feel like we're caught in an information landslide. Faced with everything from 24 x 7 news networks to a sea of information at our fingertips via the world wide web, it's no wonder that people are suffering from information overload. The real problem, however, may not be with the quantity or quality of information available. The real problem may be the lack of both breadth and depth of information -- and the fact that we rely on it.

Partial Picture

A prime example that comes to mind is Catholic social teaching. Judging by what we see in the news media, is it really any wonder that most people seem to believe that the Terri Schiavo case and the Abortion issue constitute the extent of Catholic social teaching? The rest might not be exciting or controversial enough to make headlines, but luckily there is quite a bit more to it then the news media lets on!

The Dignity of the Human Person

Catholic social teaching begins with a belief in the inherent dignity of the human person. Because human life is sacred -- created in the image and likeness of God -- that belief is the starting point for a moral vision for society. However, we are not only sacred but social beings. Our dignity and rights must be considered in relationship with others and will only be truly realized (and protected) within the context of our relationship with society.

The morality of society can be gauged by how it treats its most vulnerable members. Do we look at public policy decisions in regards to their affect on the poor? Or do we act as if the "option for the poor" is just another catchy slogan? In order to achieve the common good, the Church teaches that we must give extra attention to those on the margins of society -- not just to those who are deemed notable by the media.

In order to achieve the ideals above, human rights must be protected and certain responsibilities must be met. Everyone has not only a right to life, but also a right to the things required for a decent life (i.e. food, clothing, shelter, health care, education, and employment). Along with those rights come certain duties and responsibilities -- to those around us and society in general.

And That's Not All...

The dignity of the human person really is only the beginning. It's the starting point for Catholic social teaching, but there is much more beyond that. So don't think that the stories being played out in the headlines are the summation of anything. They merely represent what the newsmakers deem exciting or entertaining. And Catholic social teaching doesn't depend on Neilson ratings.

Life Applications:

What is your understanding of Catholic social teaching?
How do you show, by your actions, that human life is sacred?
How sacred do you deem your own life to be?

Copyright 2005 by Brandon Jubar
All rights reserved.