CST Principles
This CST principle says every person has an inbuilt dignity that does not depend on wealth, success, gender or ability.
Human dignity
This 1891 encyclical (pre-1918 but foundational) responded to unfair conditions for workers in the Industrial Revolution and helped launch modern Catholic Social Teaching.
Rerum Novarum.
This 2015 encyclical by Pope Francis focuses on care for our common home and links climate change with poverty.
Laudato Si’.
This model sees the Church as a visible, structured organisation with authority, laws and leadership.
Institution model.
This principle says we must put those who are most vulnerable at the centre of our decisions.
Preferential option for the poor
After the violence of the 20th century, this CST theme became crucial, stressing nuclear disarmament, diplomacy and justice between nations.
Peace and reconciliation / peace and justice between nations.
Laudato Si’ uses this phrase to describe how people, creatures, ecosystems and God are all connected.
“Everything is connected.”
This model sees the Church as a network of relationships, emphasising community, belonging and shared faith.
Mystical Communion (or Community) model.
This principle reminds us that we are one human family, no matter national borders, race or religion.
Dignity of work and the rights of workers.
This Catholic agency works globally for justice, especially with communities facing poverty, conflict and climate change. In Australia it runs Project Compassion.
Caritas Australia.
Ecotheology says creation care is not optional. It’s described as this kind of issue because it affects the poor, future generations and our relationship with God.
A moral issue (or an ethical issue).
This model sees the Church’s main role as preaching the Gospel, proclaiming the word and calling people to conversion.
Herald model.
This principle reminds us that we are one human family, no matter national borders, race or religion.
Solidarity.
This Catholic organisation, founded by Blessed Frédéric Ozanam, works at a local level with people experiencing homelessness and financial hardship.
St Vincent de Paul Society
This model sees the Church as a visible sign of God’s grace in the world, like a bridge between God and humanity.
Sacrament model.
This principle says we are made for community and must promote social structures that help people belong and flourish.
Call to community and the common good.
CST insists we do more than temporary charity. It uses this word to describe changing structures, systems and laws that create injustice.
Justice (structural or social justice).
This model focuses on the Church working for justice, peace and care for the poor and Earth.
Servant model.