A Concise Guide to Catholic Social Teaching (Third Edition)

Many of the concerns addressed in Catholic social teaching stem from the seismic cultural shifts in the Western World brought on by the Industrial Revolution. Beginning in the late nineteenth century, Catholic Church leaders have continuously responded to the pressing social needs of various peoples, institutions, nations, and of the earth itself. This chart correlates the social teaching documents of the Church to world and U.S. events of great historical significance. Using this chart will help readers of A Concise Guide to Catholic Social Teaching better comprehend the cultural and social conditions in which these teachings were pronounced.

Catholic preachers and teachers will find this practical reference guide to be an indispensable tool for integrating Catholic social teaching into ministries of the Word. Five key themes of social teaching (Dignity of the Human Person; Community and the Common Good; Rights and Responsibilities; Option for the Poor; and Solidarity) are correlated to the Sunday Lectionary readings. Biblical citations and one-sentence message summaries are provided for each liturgical date listed.

This digital download is an excellent resource for both homily preparation and catechetical lesson plan development.

Many parishes and other Catholic communities gather during Advent or Lent to celebrate God’s plentiful mercy. Often these programs are created around various themes of justice. This sample penance service is excellently suited for use during just such a program. It will also be useful any time a local community wishes to come together seeking the Lord’s healing and forgiveness. The format offered here can easily be adapted to a variety of settings and can include celebration of the Sacrament of Penance (Reconciliation) or not, depending on local need and the availability of clergy.

When studying Catholic social teaching it is helpful to know something of the background of those who have most directly influenced the production of this crucial body of Church teaching. These short biographies of Leo XIII, Pius XI, John XXIII, Paul VI, John Paul II, and Benedict XVI offer a glimpse into the lives of the popes who have called the Church and the world to justice.