Interwoven with the RE teaching are always elements of Catholic Social Teaching.
Catholic Social Teaching is based on the belief that God has a plan for creation, a plan to build his kingdom of peace, love and justice. It holds that God has a special place in this story for each of us, whoever we are. Our part in this plan isn’t just limited to things ‘spiritual’, or things we might do on Sundays, but that it involves every aspect of our lives, from the things we pray about, to how we live as a responsible global citizens. Our part in this story is a kind-of vocation for the common good, a call to treat everyone as your brothers and sisters and is something that we all share.
We show that we are hopeful in living in communion with one another.
"Behold how good and pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity"
Psalms 133:1
Respect for human life means respecting all of God’s creation. We must re-engage with our environment and take responsibility for it; live sustainably, live so that there are enough resources for everyone. Our environment influences almost all of our lives, and Catholic Social Teaching recognises that undervaluing makes us all poorer.
"Ever since God created the world, his invisible qualities, both his eternal power and his divine nature, have been clearly seen; they are perceived in the things that God has made"
Romans 1:20
We understand that everybody should be respected and supported. We help each other flourish in all aspects of our lives, as we learn and grow closer to God.
"So God created human beings, making them to be like himself"
Genesis 1:27
We think about what it means to be a good neighbour as part of our church, local, national and global communities.
"A new command I give. Love one another. As I have loved you, so you much love one another"
John 13:34-35
The option for the poor reminds us of God's preferential love for the poorest and most vulnerable people. God's love is universal; he does not side with opressors but loves the humble.
"The generous will themselves be blessed, for they share their food with the poor"
Proverbs 22:9
Understanding what our rights and responsibilities are, and knowing how we can promote and live these out, as ambassadors of Christ.
"Speak up for people who cannot speak for themselves. Protect the rights of all who are helpless. Speak for them and be a righteous judge. Protect the rights of the poor and needy"
Proverbs 31:8-9