Gist and rationale of CS

The Catholic Social Teachings are doctrines that essentially deal with matters in regards to
human dignity and common good in a society that faces numerous challenges of one’s morals,
faith, and spirituality. It aims to create a just society wherein people could live in peace and
holiness. Some key ideas include oppression, the role of the state, subsidiarity, social
organization, concern for social justice, and issues of wealth distribution.

Duty to inform world of prophetic mission

These are trying times for morals and beliefs, as a handful of problems shake the faith of many
Catholics—young and old alike. Not just human beings suffer, but animals and nature as well.
The Catholic Social Teaching reminds us of how to uphold ourselves and realigns our morals for
the greater good of everyone. How we think, what we do, what we say—these all fundamentally
affect society, human dignity, human life, and human rights. Thus is it essential for the world to
listen to the doctrine of the Catholic Social Teaching.

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Human Dignity

A major, recurring theme of the Catholic Social Teaching is human dignity. The world has
become more inclined to placing higher value on materialistic wealth rather than human life—
but we must never forget that a life can never be stripped off its innate, God-given dignity. That
being said, human life is sacred and is the foundation for a moral vision of society. Such
intangible things enable us to gain rights.

Rights and Responsibilities

Humanss are entitled to rights just as they innately have dignity. These rights must be protected,
as so dignity is respected. Similarly, responsibilities that come with the rights we are given
should be upheld—and these responsibilities pertain to not just the responsibility we have for
ourselves, but for others such as our friends and family, and the rest of creation.

Community and the Common Good

In this modern day, individualism reigns. While it is good to look out for oneself, too much
harms those around us. Our lives are not just for us, but for others as well. Everything we do will
affect society one way or another, and ultimately, the dignity, growth, and rights of others. Hence,
the Catholic Social Teaching reminds us to remember those around us rather than to only see
ourselves because if we only see who we are, the common good for the world may never be
achieved.

Option for the Poor and Vulnerable

An ever-stretching gap between the rich and poor exists, and continues to exist to this day due to
several factors. While the rich may lavish in their exquisite lifestyles, the poor only face
hardships everyday as they strive to survive daily. The Catholic Social Teaching and the Bible
alike reminds us that the most vulnerable sectors of society are those we should put first. When
the poor’s most basic needs are met, they are enabled to actively participate in guiding the
society towards the better; for how they fare is a reflection of our society as a whole.

Participation

Every human being, regardless of social class and the like, have a right to participate in politics,
economics, and culture. Their dignity and rights demand as such, and so everyone should at least
be able to participate even to a minimum degree. It entails they are members of the human race.
To set aside anyone and make them feel as if they do not matter is unjust, and violates the other
person’s worth as a human being.

Dignity of Work and Rights of Workers

With the work force steadily growing, workers are entitled to fair wages and fair treatment. More
often than not, those in the lower status are pushed beyond limits to serve those who are higher
up the pyramid. However, those above should be the ones serving the people, and treating them
with respect. If the dignity of work is to be protected, then the basic rights of workers must be
respected.

Stewardship of Creation

Like how we care for our fellow human beings, we are also called to care for the other life that
the Earth homes. From the smallest insect to the biggest elephant; from the growing grass to the
Redwood tree—we must protect and preserve these as a reflection of our faith in God. It is an
environmental challenge with moral and ethical dimensions in which must not be turned away
from.

Solidarity

Regardless of religion, race, gender, or belief, we are all human. Thus, we must protect each
other and look out for each other just as a family would. Solidarity means that “loving our
neighbour” has global dimensions in an interdependent world. (Catholic Charities Office for
Social Justice)

Role of Government
Because humans are essentially social beings, the state is natural to the person. If every other
key principle were without the government, it would be hectic, for the government regulates and
maintains us; it protects human life, dignity, and promote common good. Akin to a lighthouse,
the government assists those in fulfilling their responsibilities and ensures no one is
dehumanized.

Promotion of Peace

For many, the definition of peace may be as shallow as being content that no major war exists.
However, peace is much more than that. Catholic Social Teaching sees peace in such a positive
light, and is not achieved passively but must include action. In the words of Pope John Paul II,
"Peace is not just the absence of war. It involves mutual respect and confidence between peoples
and nations. It involves collaboration and binding agreements.” It is the fruit of justice, and the
end goal of the Catholic Social Teaching doctrine.

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Conclusion

Connection to Thomasian Seal

University of Santo Tomas prides itself in being one of the oldest Catholic universities in Asia—
and for a good reason. Guided by both faith and reason, it pursuits for the truth, and strives to
find ways to guide society towards a better future; to transform society into something peaceful,
as the Catholic Social Teaching dictates. It does not pride itself in its status, but rather uses what
power it has to help the poor and give them opportunities in the form of outreach programs
(UST-SIMBAYAHAN). It guides, serves, and leads, and tackles problems in a way that is
creative; and in a way that does not exclude anyone from their help.

Sources

[1] https://www.catholicsocialteaching.org.uk/themes/human-dignity/explanation/

[2] https://www.cctwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/Key-10-Principles-of-CST_1-
pager.pdf

[3] http://www.usccb.org/beliefs-and-teachings/what-we-believe/catholic-social-teaching/seven-
themes-of-catholic-social-teaching.cfm
[4] https://www.nzcatholic.org.nz/2017/09/05/importance-catholic-social-teaching-time/