Catholic Social Teaching (CST) tells us how our Catholic Faith guides our actions. It is our moral compass, guiding us on how to live out our faith in the world. Please watch the short film to find out more – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dLHvosRUfQc
There are nine core principles that underpin Catholic Social Teaching. In our classes, these principles are represented by different characters as this is age appropriate and more relatable for our children. As the children move to KS2, they will be introduced to each principle with the more official name such as subsidiarity and human dignity.
To find out more about each of the nine principles, please scroll down and read on. Also, please keep an eye on the ‘Catholic Life’ section of our website as you will see how these principes are put into action through our daily lives at St Gabriel’s. We endeavour to support our school community, local community and global community through actions such as fundraising, litter picking, tree planting, praying and connecting with members of our community, each time, linking back to our Catholic Social Teaching principles.
Human Dignity
Luc the Deer represents Human Dignity. Each of us is made in God’s image. Every person has an innate human dignity that no one can take away. Our common humanity requires that we respect and uphold the dignity of each and every individual. Everything else flows from this dignity.
The Common Good
Chikondi the Giraffe represents The Common Good. Our actions have an impact on everyone. When we make decisions, we should consider the good of all. We are called to work for the good of each and of all. The common good is about respecting the rights and responsibilities of all people and leaving no one behind.
Participation
Patariki the Penguin represents participation. We all have the right and duty to participate fully in society. We live in community with others, growing together. We are called to be active participants in all that we do. We have a responsibility to be inclusive so that we allow all people to participate.
Subsidiarity
Sid the Sheep represents Subsidiarity. Subsidiarity involves making sure that decisions are made at the most appropriate level, so all those affected can contribute and have a voice. Everyone has important ideas and knows what is best for their families and communities. They need to have a say and the chance to influence outcomes.
Stewardship
Sophia the Sloth represents Stewardship. Stewardship is all about caring for the many gifts that God has given to us. These include our environment, our own talents and other resources. All living things are connected so we must use God’s gifts responsibly to meet the needs of everyone, now and in the future.
Solidarity
Shristi the Sun bear represents Solidarity. Being in solidarity is recognising others as our brothers and sisters and actively working for their good. We are connected to people and places all over the world.
Preferential Option for the Poor
Poppy the Popokotea represents Preferential Option for the Poor. A preferential option for the poor means that we think first about the needs of those who are the most vulnerable. Jesus taught that when we feed the hungry, welcome the stranger, clothe the naked, look after the sick and visit those imprisoned, we are looking after Him.
Distributive Justice
DJ the Dolphin represents Distributive Justice. God’s plan was for all people to share in the goods of this world. This means that no person should struggle to have the basic necessities of life such as food, shelter and clothing. Distributive justice is all about fair allocation of resources (including income, goods and services).
Promoting Peace
Daisy the Dove represents Promoting Peace. Peace is not just the absence of war. It is part of God’s nature, and a value we should all seek to live out in our daily lives. Peace comes from both justice and love and is dependent upon people understanding one another.
Each half term, the classes are given a Catholic Social Teaching project to help apply our Catholic Mission in meaningful ways. Some examples of activities completed this half term.
