Catholic Social Teaching is rooted in Scripture, and it provides us with guidance on how we can live out our faith as followers of Christ in our local, national, and global community. Pope Francis guides us in how we can apply the scripture to our modern day lives and how the Church can respond to the challenges we face in our modern world. Pope Francis’ shared his own thoughts in his encyclicals Laudato Si’ (2015) and Fratelli Tutti (2020). At St Edmund’s School, we work with CAFOD in developing our knowledge and understanding of how we can best engage in CST.

1 The Common Good
We show respect and responsibility for our brothers and sisters who are in need. We are called to work for the good of each and all and to ensure that no one is left behind.

2 Participation
Everyone has the right and duty to participate and be supported in family life and society. We are all ‘Co Workers’ and through cooperation we can learn and grow closer to God.

3 Dignity of Work
We respect the dignity of work and the rights of workers. Church teaching has upheld the dignity of work and participation. The human person should always come before the pursuit of profit. Workers have the right to join trade unions, to a just wage, to spend time with their families and to rest. Work is an essential part of our human dignity, and everyone has the right to participate.

4 Stewardship of Creation
In the first pages of the Bible we read how God created the sun and the stars, the water and earth, and every creature. We believe Christ is the redeemer of all creation. We show our respect for the Creator by our stewardship of creation. We are called to protect people and the planet, living our faith in relationship with all of God’s creation.

5 Human Dignity
We believe that we are beautifully made in the image and likeness of God and that each one of us is unique. Each human life is sacred and a gift from God that should be respected primarily. God is present in every human person. Each one of us is unique and beautiful. We are called to treat every person and every creature with loving respect.

6 Preferential Option for the Poor
Very simply this means putting the needs of the poor and vulnerable first. God’s love is universal; he does not side with oppressors but loves the humble.

7 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. The pursuit of justice and peace is important.