In honor of Catholic Charities’ 90th anniversary of providing help and hope to those who need it most, we are doing a 7 part series on the principles of Catholic social teaching.
The Catholic Church’s social teaching is a rich treasure of wisdom about building a just society and living lives of holiness amid the challenges of modern society. Here is number two of the seven principles of the tradition.
PRINCIPLE: CALL TO FAMILY, COMMUNITY, AND PARTICIPATION
The person is not only sacred but also social. How we organize our society — in economics and politics, in law and policy — directly affects human dignity and the capacity of individuals to grow in community. Marriage and the family must be supported and strengthened. We believe people have a right and a duty to participate in society, seeking together the common good and well-being of all, especially the poor and vulnerable.
CONTEMPORARY TEACHING
In his encyclical Brothers and Sisters to Us, Pope Francis wrote: “The existence of each individual is deeply tied to that of others: life is not simply time that passes; life is a time for interactions.”
ACTION:
Family Services of Catholic Charities of Oregon partners with families to build up their lives via housing, case management and education. Parents receive training and supplies.