What is Catholic Social Teaching?
Catholic Social Teaching is founded in Scripture , formed by the wisdom of Church leaders, and influenced by grassroots movements. It offers wisdom and insights on living the Gospel in today’s world.
Jesus tells us to love God and to love our neighbours, especially our sisters and brothers living in poverty.
It is our moral compass, guiding us on how to live out our faith in the world.
Pope Francis continues to add to Catholic Social Teaching with his own
encyclicals, including Laudato Si’ (2015) and Fratelli Tutti (2020).
There are nine principles used and the principles overlap, and our actions for global and local justice will often be in response to more than one principle at a time.
We use the CAFOD Catholic Social Teaching resources and the animal mascots to support the children’s understanding of the CST principles.
The animal mascots are used with EYFS, KS1 and KS2. We think about how we act to build a better world.
Human Dignity – Everyone is special: Luc the Deer: We are beautifully made in the image & likeness of God
The Common Good – thinking of everyone: Chikondi the Giraffe: We are called to work for the good of each other and all
The Dignity of Work and Participation – Taking part: Patiriki Penguin: We all have the right and duty to participate fully in society.
Subsidiarity – everyone should have a say: Sid the Sheep: We are called to empower communities, to let everyone have a say.
Stewardship/Creation and Environment – caring for God’s gifts:Sofia the Sloth: We are guardians of God’s creation, living sustainably and enhancing the wellbeing of the planet
Solidarity – showing we care: Shiristi the Sun Bear: God created us as one global family called to support our brothers and sisters.
Preferential Option for the Poor – putting people in most need first: Poppy the Popokotea: The needs of the poor and vulnerable should be put first
Distributive Justice – sharing fairly:DJ the Dolphin: Everyone should have access to their fair share of resources
Peace – being peacemakers:Daisy the Dove: We can be God’s instruments of peace through seeking justice and promoting peace