Principles of Catholic Social Teaching
“The Church’s social teaching is built on the foundation of human dignity and the call to love our neighbor.” — Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church, no. 160
Introduction: The Moral Compass of the Church
Throughout history, the Church has responded to the cries of humanity through a social vision rooted in Scripture and Tradition. The Principles of Catholic Social Teaching (CST) serve as a moral compass guiding the faithful in addressing poverty, injustice, inequality, and the stewardship of creation. Emerging from the Church’s engagement with the modern world—especially since Rerum Novarum (1891)—these principles continue to shape Catholic reflection and action across societies.
To study these principles more deeply, many find it helpful to use a reliable reference such as the Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church (Amazon), a volume widely used by ministers, educators, and lay leaders.
Catholic Social Teaching is not an optional part of faith—it is faith in action in the public square.
While various frameworks identify slightly different sets, this overview explains twelve key principles that express the moral vision of the Gospel lived out in the social, political, and economic spheres.
1. The Principle of Human Dignity
At the center of all Catholic Social Teaching lies the truth that every person is created in the image and likeness of God (Genesis 1:27). Human dignity is not earned or granted by society—it is intrinsic and inviolable. From this flows the Church’s defense of life from conception to natural death and its rejection of all forms of discrimination, exploitation, or marginalization.
Those who wish to reflect personally on human dignity often benefit from journaling spiritual insights. A simple tool like a Christian Reflection Journal (Amazon) can accompany one’s deepening awareness of God’s image in every person.
Every social policy, law, or economic system must be evaluated by its respect for human dignity.
2. The Common Good
The common good refers to the sum total of social conditions that allow all people to reach their full potential more easily. Rooted in Gaudium et Spes (no. 26), it calls for public policies that promote justice and equality rather than privilege the few.
3. Solidarity
Solidarity expresses the moral and social attitude that we are one human family, regardless of national, ethnic, or economic boundaries. Saint John Paul II emphasized that solidarity is not “a feeling of vague compassion” but “a firm and persevering determination to commit oneself to the common good.”
For further reflection on solidarity, families and ministries sometimes use the Pope John Paul II Social Teachings Reader (Amazon), a resource that illuminates the heart of Christian unity.
4. The Option for the Poor and Vulnerable
Jesus’ ministry centered on those marginalized by society—the poor, the sick, the excluded. The preferential option for the poor means that every decision in Church and society should be evaluated by how it affects the least among us.
To follow Christ is to stand where the poor stand, to see the world from their perspective.
5. The Principle of Subsidiarity
This principle, articulated in Quadragesimo Anno, teaches that decisions should be made at the lowest possible level. It guards against excessive centralization and upholds empowerment.
6. The Principle of Participation
Flowing from human dignity, participation is both a right and a duty. A just society empowers all to have a voice in decisions that affect their lives.
7. Stewardship of Creation
Creation is a gift entrusted to humanity. Pope Francis’ Laudato Si’ reframes ecology as a moral issue, linking environmental care with justice for the poor.
Many parishes and families integrate ecological spirituality using simple tools such as a Reusable Eco-Friendly Water Bottle (Amazon)—symbolic reminders of care for creation.
8. Rights and Responsibilities
Every human being has fundamental rights—life, work, education. Yet rights must always be exercised with responsibilities toward others and the common good.
9. Economic Justice
The economy exists for the person. Fair wages, workers’ rights, and human-centered development are essential moral demands.
10. Peace and Reconciliation
Peace is built through justice and healing. This principle calls us to be peacemakers in families, parishes, and society.
11. Global Solidarity
Globalization increases interdependence. The Church urges nations to cooperate for equitable development, emphasizing justice, compassion, and peace.
12. Love and Charity
At the foundation stands love. Every social structure must be infused with charity, or justice becomes mechanical.
Charity gives life to justice, ensuring that our actions are motivated by compassion and faith, not ideology.
Conclusion: Living the Principles Today
These twelve principles are not abstract theories—they are expressions of the Gospel in society. They challenge Christians to integrate faith and justice, protect creation, uplift the poor, and promote peace. Living CST is making love visible.
Call to Action
Which of these principles resonates most deeply with your vocation? Share your insights or examples in the comments below and join the ongoing dialogue on how faith can transform society.
Recommended Resources
Amazon Resources:
- Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church
- Christian Reflection Journal (Hardbound)
- Pope John Paul II Social Teachings Reader
- Reusable Eco-Friendly Water Bottle
Shopee Resources:
- Catholic Social Teaching Booklet
- Eco-Friendly Tote Bag for Parish Ministries
- Bible Tabs
- Parish Ministry Notebook
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon and Shopee Affiliate, I may earn a small commission when you purchase through these links—at no extra cost to you. Your support helps sustain this ministry and the creation of faith-based content.
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