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  • Introduction to Catholic Social Teaching (CST)
  • Overview of CST as a cornerstone of Social Ethics.

  • Emphasis on the dignity of the human person and the common good.

  • Foundational Values of CST

  • Human dignity
  • Community and the common good
  • Rights and responsibilities
  • Option for the poor and vulnerable
  • Participation
  • Dignity of work and rights of workers
  • Solidarity

  • Care for God's creation

  • Principles Guiding Responsibilities towards a Just Society

  • Respect for life and dignity of every person.
  • Commitment to the social well-being and development of the community.
  • Emphasis on the rights and responsibilities of individuals.
  • Special concern for the poor and vulnerable.
  • Recognition of the importance of work and the rights of workers.
  • Solidarity with all humanity for peace and justice.

  • Stewardship of the earth.

  • Engaging with Social Justice

  • Personal reflection on social justice issues.
  • Discussion on how to integrate CST principles in daily life and education.
  • Creative expression activities to explore and express understanding of CST.

Colossians 3:10-11 "and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. 11 Here there is no Gentile or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all and is in all."

Maslow's hierarchy of needs

  1. Physiological
    1. food
    2. water
    3. rest
    4. clothing
    5. shelter
    6. health
    7. reproduction
  2. Safety
    1. protection from violence
    2. theft
    3. emotional stability
    4. financial security
  3. Belonging
    1. family
    2. friendships
    3. physical and emotional intimacy
  4. Esteem
    1. self respect
    2. self esteem
    3. personal growth and accomplishment
  5. Self-Actualization
    1. Fulfillment of your full potential
    2. education
    3. skill development
    4. new languages
    5. traveling
    6. winning awards
  6. Transcendence
    1. Extreme fulfillment to the point where they connect with others

Disability Visibility

First Person Stories from the twenty first century

Praxis Cycle

  1. Action: This phase involves engaging in concrete activities that address social issues, injustices, or needs within a community. Actions are guided by Gospel values and the teachings of the Church, aiming to bring about change or provide support where it's most needed. This could include service projects, advocacy, community organizing, or other forms of social action.

  2. Reflection: Following action, this phase encourages individuals and communities to reflect on their experiences. Reflection in the Catholic praxis cycle is deeply theological and considers questions like: How did our actions align with the teachings of Jesus and the Church? What was the impact of our actions on the community and ourselves? How do we see God in the faces and stories of those we serve?

  3. Analysis: Building on reflection, this step involves a more systematic evaluation of the actions taken, considering the broader social, economic, and political contexts. It seeks to understand the root causes of the issues addressed and evaluates the effectiveness of the actions in making a meaningful difference.

  4. Planning: Informed by action, reflection, and analysis, this phase involves strategizing for future actions. It includes setting goals, identifying resources, and determining the best methods to address the needs identified. Planning ensures that future actions are thoughtful, strategic, and informed by previous cycles of praxis.

  5. Action (renewed): With new insights and strategies, the cycle returns to action, implementing the plans formulated in the previous phase. This renewed action is more informed and refined, aiming to be more effective in achieving transformative change.