SYNTHESIS OF KEY SOCIAL TEACHING OF THE CATHOLIC CHURCH DOCUMENTS

Human Dignity: The Cornerstone of Catholic Social Vision

The principle of inherent human dignity is the foundation of CST.

Dignitatis Infinita (Infinite Dignity)

asserts that every person possesses inalienable worth, being created in the image and likeness of God (Imago Dei)

Rerum Novarum (Of New Things)

contextualized the dignity within labor conditions, defending the rights of workers against economic exploitation.

Gaudium et Spes (Joy and Hope)

broadened the vision that affirming the Church’s solidarity with all of humanity especially those experiencing suffering and injustice. These documents collectively call for unwavering defense of human dignity in all aspects of life

Integral Development and the Call to Solidarity

In Catholic thought, true development encompasses not only economic progress but also moral, spiritual, and cultural growth

Populorum Progressio (The Progress of Peoples)

introduces the concept of “integral human development,” stressing that authentic progress must serve the whole person and every person.

Sollicitudo Rei Socialis (The Social Concern of the Church)

reinforces by presenting solidarity as both a virtue and a social principle, where the powerful are morally obligated to uplift the marginalized

Centesimus Annus (The Hundredth Year)

revisits the themes in the context of global capitalism, advocating for economic systems that uphold justice, equity, and human rights

Work as Vocation and Human Expression Laborem Exercens (Through Work)

emphasizes that work is more than a means of survival it is a vital expression of human identity and participation in God’s creative mission. Labor must serve the person, not vice versa. This document calls for labor conditions that promote fairness, participation, and the spiritual dimension of work

Evangelization in the Modern World

Evangelization is not limited to proclamation; it is the transformation of culture and society through the Gospel

Evangelii Nuntiandi (Evangelization in the Modern World)

highlights that evangelization must engage with the deepest human concerns and realities

Love as the Root of Social Mission Dilexit Nos (He Loved Us)

reminds us that all Christian action originates in God’s gratuitous love for humanity. This divine love demands a response that manifests in justice, charity, and communal responsibility

Love

therefore, is not merely an emotion but a transformative force that animates Christian witness in both personal relationships and societal structures

Caritas in Veritate t

eaches that true development and progress must be guided by love in truth, respecting human dignity and the common good.