Catholic Social Doctrine JR

“The joy and hope, the grief and anguish of the people of our time, especially those who are poor or afflicted in any way, are the joys and hopes, grief and anguish of the followers of Christ as well. Nothing that is genuinely human fails to find an echo in their hearts” (Vatican II, Gaudium et spes.)

Introduction

I myself, as many faithful and stalwart Catholics I know, sneak shy glances at the social teachings of the Church. The social issues addressed in the doctrine are complicated, and despite our best efforts, holes remain in our knowledge-base. The awareness of ignorance can paralyze us into non-action. We do not want to provoke a disagreement or conflict with others. In addition, because our modern culture has recast social justice as the stuff of politics, we may be uncomfortable with possible ‘branding.’

Despite these difficulties, many people intuitively evaluate societal issues with a social justice paradigm as their guide. These compassionate and merciful instincts are embedded in belonging to the Creator. Indeed, Jesus said, “Whatever you do to the least of your brothers (and sisters), you’ve done unto me.” Such selflessness is, however, counter-cultural. In learning the doctrine of the Church, we can question, discern and intentionally engage in behaviors rooted in love which foster the common good.

To seek social justice, we must tune in. The social teachings of the Church can be approached as instructions from the Lord as to how to live in communion with all He creates. Listening and learning is therefore a transformative act of social justice. Exploring the social teachings should ignite our love for God, Creation, the Church and humanity, compelling each of us as individuals and as communities to extend and expand on the social advocacy we already do.

What follows this Introduction

There are several different ways in which the basic tenants of the Church’s social teachings have been broken down. The US Catholic Conference of Bishops proposes seven themes, while the Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church suggests four guiding principles. Each approach offers a different and valuable framework for personal exploration.

This Writing to Pray journal retreat seeks, through further discussion and reflection questions, to inspire and encourage personal exploration and discernment. Some folks are reluctant to read material in which questions are proposed. While the willingness to engage in questions indicates an open mind, it also requires tenacity, fortitude and confidence. After all, answers to questions may lead to thoughts and feelings which are a bit uncomfortable. We may decide change is necessary and that’s never easy.

Once we examine our present knowledge, perceptions and behavior around the Church’s social teachings apathy can no longer be an option. And if apathy is no longer an option, neither is side-line sitting. Insight isn’t instant, it’s hard won through prayer, writing, art, study, conversation, partnerships and friends. I hope this journal retreat helps you reflect on and contemplate upon our shared social teachings.

Four Principles of the Social Teachings

The quotations in this section are drawn from the Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church, unless otherwise noted. The numbers indicate the specific reference.

‘The Vatican’ has organized the Church’s social teachings into four principles; the dignity of the human person, the common good, subsidiarity, solidarity. They guide us as we respond to new situations. The importance and context of these four principles is explained in various Church writings, and include the following statements:

- - The permanent principles of the Church’s social doctrine constitute the very heart of Catholic social teaching (160).
  - These are principles of a general and fundamental character, since they concern the reality of society in its entirety (161).
  - The principles of the Church’s social doctrine must be appreciated in their unity, interrelatedness and articulation (162).

Dignity of the Human Person

“The Church sees in men and women, the living image of God himself. This image finds an ever deeper and fuller unfolding of itself in the mystery of Christ. By His incarnation, He has united Himself in some fashion with every person. The Church invites all people to recognize in everyone a brother and sister for whom He died” (105).

In addition, “The whole of man’s life is a quest to search for God” (109). He is created to offer His Creator faith and love which no other creature can give in his stead (108). “Man exists as a unique and unrepeatable being capable of self- understanding, self-possession and self-determination” (131).

These ideas around the unique and special nature of each person, leads us towards a love, beyond respect, for other persons and people. Because of these understandings and our love for God and His Family, we must protect each individual’s rights as well as human rights as a whole.

reflection questions and writing to pray exercises:

- - - Have my human rights ever been violated, and/or championed by another? What is my personal story?
    - When have I protected another person’s human rights? What do I do to protect the general notion of human rights?
    - What is my evaluation of my own self-understanding, self-possession and self-determination?
    - How can I help those faced with difficult life and death decisions involving their loved ones? What societal issues and difficulties affect such decisions?
    - Issues such as abortion, euthanasia, the death penalty, war and terrorism, deaths of despair and addictions threaten human dignity, and yet are complex as played out in society. What are my thoughts and feelings about each of these issues?

Principle of the Common Good

This principle invites us to look at ‘the big picture’ concerning the social conditions of other people. What we own and who we are is given to us for the benefit of all in a context of dignity, unity and equality for all (164).

reflection questions and writing to pray exercises:

- - - Where do I witness conflicts rooted in differing assumptions as to what is good for everyone?
    - Who, whether individuals, agencies or organizations, is performing ‘good works?’ How do I contribute?
    - How does supporting someone in need benefit everyone?
    - What material and intrinsic assets belong to me? Do I need to make changes so my goods, time and talents benefit others more fully?

Principle of Subsidiarity

The principle of subsidiarity suggests we strive to meet the Common Good by building upon the smallest, most intimate, personal and local level possible, where ties are the strongest. In other words, “Don’t do at a higher level what can be done at a lower level.” Participation by those most closely connected to the community and the need understand both the problems and potential of possible solutions from the inside out. They can initiate action which is more immediate, efficient and effective.

reflection questions and writing to pray exercises:

- - - How do I characterize the groups I’m involved in: small vs. large, local vs. global, institutional vs. self-sufficient? How do they connect to each other?
    - Do the charitable works I support encourage recipients to participate in their local communities?
    - What tasks and activities which foster the common good can best be done by the individual, family, parish, charitable organizations, or governments?

Principle of Solidarity

All people are interdependent, however, this is not relegated to economic or political dependence of one group upon another. “Solidarity is the firm and persevering determination to commit oneself to the common good. That is to say to the good of all and of each individual” (190, 3B). Catholic social doctrine extols truth, freedom, justice and love: these social values should guide interactions between persons and people. The Compendium writes of each:

• Truth. “Men and women have the specific duty to move always towards the truth, to respect it and to bear responsible witness to it” (198).

• Freedom. “The value of freedom, as an expression of the singularity of each human person, is respected when every member of society is permitted to fulfill his personal vocation; to seek the truth and profess his religious, cultural, political ideas; to express his opinions; to choose his state of life and, as far as possible, his line of work; to pursue initiatives of an economic, social or political nature” (199c).

• Justice. Doctrine suggests we uphold the classical forms of justice but do so within the concept of solidarity and with an aim towards peace. “Justice, in fact, is not merely a simple human convention, because what is just is not first determined by the law but by the profound identity of the human being” (202).

• Love. “It is from the inner wellspring of love that the values of truth, freedom and justice are born and grow” (205). Because we love, we seek the common good for all people, and the good within all people.

reflection questions and writing to pray exercises:

- - - When and where have I witnessed solidarity between people? Where and when have I witnessed its break-down?
    - What are the biggest social issues threatening solidarity?
    - Catholic social teachings extol truth, freedom, justice and love. What do
      each of these words mean to me? How do they guide my interactions with others?

7 Themes Of Catholic Social Teaching

The quotations used in this section are from the US Conference of Catholic Bishops’ website, unless otherwise noted.

Life and Dignity of the Human Person

“The Catholic Church proclaims that human life is sacred and that the dignity of the human person is the foundation of a moral vision for society.” While we often think of this theme in relation to life and death issues, it anchors all our interpersonal relationships.

reflection questions and writing to pray exercises:

a. Do I interact with others in the spirit of regard, respect and friendship, regardless of my own troubles and preoccupations?

b. What can I donate (time, money, talent) to organizations which provide humanitarian aid?

Call to Family, Community, and Participation

“The person is not only sacred but also social. How we organize our society — in economics and politics, in law and policy — directly affects human dignity and the capacity of individuals to grow in community.”

reflection questions and writing to pray exercises:

Family:

a. What can I do to help…

i. married couples stay committed in times of trouble,
ii. split families communicate and adjust to change in healthy ways, iii. help single parents combat isolation, loneliness and difficult practicalities?

Community:

- - - - How do I evaluate my own participation in community life? Do I need to make any changes?
        
        The phenomena of ‘Deaths of despair’ is a growing crisis in the US— what can I do for those in my community at risk? How can I help those who have withdrawn from community life?

Participation:

- - - - What are my attitudes about politics and politicians? What holds me back from taking political action?
        
        How can I augment my individual social advocacy by joining community networks?
        
        If I am not comfort with political advocacy because of the complexity of the political process, how else can I help?

Rights and Responsibilities

The Catholic tradition teaches that human dignity can be protected and a healthy community can be achieved only if human rights are protected and responsibilities are met. The Human Rights Commission has developed a list which we can refer to.

reflection questions and writing to pray exercises:

- - - Do I accidentally confuse the American dream with the human rights God intended for all?
    - Who, what, where, when, why and how are others being deprived of their human rights? What is my responsibility towards them?
    - Are there any rights listed with the Human Rights Commission’s document which surprise me, or compel me to take action?

Option for the Poor and Vulnerable

“A basic moral test is how our most vulnerable members are faring.” We can expand and extend our understanding by learning more about the attitudes and beliefs of other faith traditions on the subject of charity.

reflection questions and writing to pray exercises:

Judaism– There are three main categories of generosity: but a fourth concept urges the cultivation of the habit and instinct to give compulsively.

- - - - How would I characterize my current habit and instinct to give?
      - How can I continue to move forward on this endeavor and avoid
        stagnation?

Islam– One name for God is Al Kareem, the Most Generous; all worldly possessions are from Him and will return to Him. Generosity includes, speaking kindly, enjoining good, helping others, removing their distress, and doing justice.

- - - - In what ways do I unfortunately add to others’ distress? What more can I do to remove others’ distress?
      - Do I uplift others with the words I use and thoughts I articulate?
      - Do I notice, acknowledge and encourage the good I see?

Buddhism– Generosity includes sharing one’s ‘spaciousness of heart.’

- - - - How do I expand the space within my heart?

The Dignity of Work and the Rights of Workers

“The economy must serve people, not the other way around. Work is more than a way to make a living; it is a form of continuing participation in God’s creation.”

reflection questions and writing to pray exercises:

In regards to those I know personally at work, I can ask myself…

- - - how can I help others expand their employment opportunities,
    - do I address conflicts as they arise and in a respectful manner,
    - what can I do to help those with disabilities or special circumstances?

In regard to my neighbors, I can ask myself…

- - - do I support local businesses and start-ups when possible,
    - are there any labor laws in my state which disrespect or disadvantage
      others and how can I help?

In regard to the global economy, I can ask myself…

- - - am I aware of where the goods I consume are produced and the
      conditions of the workers involved,
    - do I purchase Fairly Traded items when possible,
    - do I contribute to organizations which promote and support fair business practices?

In answer to any of the above questions, what changes do I want to make?

Solidarity

“We are one human family whatever our national, racial, ethnic, economic, and ideological differences. We are our brothers and sisters keepers, wherever they may be. Loving our neighbor has global connections in a shrinking world.” Exploring, listening, and learning about other’s struggles, experiences and perceptions is vital to making connections.

reflection questions and writing to pray exercises:

As far as people I know, I can ask myself…

- - - - How would I evaluate my own listening skills?
      - Can I alter my mode of communication to enhance any of my relationships?

In terms of joining in solidarity those I may never meet, I can ask myself…

- - - - Do I trust my news sources?
      - Do I have enough information to be confident about whatever actions I choose to take, do I need further research?
      - How do my social advocacy efforts foster solidarity?

Care for God’s Creation

“We show our respect for the Creator by our stewardship of creation. We are called to protect people and the planet, living in faith and relationship with all of creation.” Some of the issues include; waste disposal, climate change, pollution, natural resource depletion, overpopulation, loss of biodiversity, urban sprawl, genetic engineering, animal cruelty, etc.

reflection questions and writing to pray exercises:

- - - How would I characterize my current level of concern for and awareness of these issues?
    - Am I doing all I can to educate myself and others about them, to make life-style changes where possible, and to support organizations and institutions which tackle these problems?

Taking Action

Approach A: Part 1

Get Global is a program created through Oxfam- Great Britian to encourage and empower school aged children to take action. The steps the teachers walk their students through are useful for all of us as we seek to effect change. They are as follows:

- - pick an issue,
  - learn more about it,
  - find networks, partners and allies,
  - create an action plan,
  - initiate the plan, and
  - monitor and evaluate.

Approach A: Part 2

There are a few key questions to keep in mind as you initiate action.

reflection questions and writing to pray exercises:

1. 1. What is surprising me? What perceptions stay with me when I return to my
    typical daily to-dos?
  2. What have I learned about the presence and character of the Lord, other
    people, humanity, and myself?

Approach B: Part 1

The Two Feet of Love in Action program, created by the USCCB’s Department of Justice, Peace and Human Development, suggests that we perform charitable works and work for social justice simultaneously. In their materials they represent each as a ‘foot.’ They define social justice as “addressing the root causes of problems facing communities, advocating for just public policies and helping to change the social structures that contribute to suffering and injustice at home and around the world.”

Charitable works are “the simple response to immediate needs and specific situations: feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, caring for and healing the sick, visiting prisoners etc.” (Pope Benedict, XVI, Deus Caritas Est, no. 31.) Considering this, after we have chosen a specific course of action, we can ask;

Approach B: Part 2

Follow the steps listed from the Oxfam website with a mind towards creating a plan that addresses the same concern, but with the ‘other foot.’ Following that, once again, journal with the reflection questions in mind.

reflection questions and writing to pray exercises:

1. 1. 1. What is surprising me? What perceptions stay with me when I return to my
      typical daily to-dos?
    2. What have I learned about the presence and character of the Lord, other
      people, humanity, and myself?

Approach C: Part 1

The above approach is typical, however, it assumes we are well-acquainted with the wide array of issues people around the world face. Sometimes, however, we learn of a solution to a problem before we know of or understand the depth of the problem. Given this possible scenario, a second approach may be useful in tackling a social concern.

- - become acquainted with programs being developed by one specific philanthropic organization,
  - make a contribution of time, money or talent,
  - analyze which ‘foot’ the program and your contribution addresses,
  - brainstorm and initiate action to address the other foot,
  - determine if the initial action was global, national, or local,
  - brainstorm and initiate action to address the other levels,
  - evaluate and adjust accordingly.

Approach C: Part 2

reflection questions and writing to pray exercises:

- - - Did the action I take address the root cause of my chosen issue (social justice), or did it fulfill a specific need for someone suffering (charitable works)?
    - What is surprising me? What perceptions stay with me when I return to my typical daily to-dos?
    - What have I learned about the presence and character of the Lord, other people, humanity, and myself?

In Summary

Thank you for allowing me to offer this journal retreat to you. I was exposed to and studied this material for a different project. I feel, however, the best way to examine our lives in the context of the Church’s social teachings is to reflect and contemplate, write and pray throughout the process. I hope you have found the experience as enriching as I have. God bless.