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August 6, 2020Catholic social justice is something many do not like to talk about. It is something we like to skirt away from so we don’t notice our lack of involvement in it. Even worse, it can be something we attach to a political party rather than the teachings of Jesus Christ. However, like Jesus, these teachings should not be ignored.
I’d like to tell you a story. I was snuggling up close to my most recent foster kitten when suddenly I noticed a great big flea on his tiny face. My initial reaction was to push him away and scratch my head in paranoia. But then, my heart welled right back up. Instinct of caring for the vulnerable was setting in. Three baths later (two for him and one for me), hand picking out fleas, and blow drying his fur and suddenly all was better again. He purred snuggled right up to my chest as he shivered and I worked to warm his body back up. At that moment, it didn’t matter how many fleas he might still have on him, what mattered was that he needed me, and I wasn’t going anywhere.
Believe it or not, this is Catholic social teaching. Catholic social teaching includes seven main principles, Life and Dignity of the Human Person, Solidarity, Care for God's creation, Call to Family, Community and Participation, Option for the Poor and Vulnerable, Rights and Responsibilities, and Dignity of Work and Rights of Workers. Many of these teachings are not difficult to live, but they also should not be ignored. These are the very precepts of what it means to be a Christian.
Following these teachings can look different depending on your state in life. As a parent of young children, you practice the call to family and caring for the life of the human person and teach your children about social justice. As adults, we can do anything from planting trees, volunteering at the parish, praying for the most vulnerable in our society, to serving at a soup kitchen, and more. What matters is that we follow these teachings intentionally. We are called to be intentional disciples, not accidental Christians. After all, Jesus in the Gospels said that even evil people love those who love them. We are called to love without restraint, especially those most in need.
In addition, who do you know around you that you could speak up for? For my dad, it is being a voice for the factory workers where I used to work. For you, it could be contacting our local government to encourage change to care for those most in need. Caring for others does not come down to a political party like certain social teachings are sometimes erroneously classified as. Political parties should always stay out of the equation. We are to care for the unborn, defend the immigrant, care for the environment, support the elderly, and care for all those most marginalized in our society. This is bringing God’s Truth to the world. Our ultimate goal is to know, love, and serve God. Make that the goal and it won’t matter which political party does what, what matters is what you are doing for the kingdom of Heaven.
So right now, recognize the good you are already doing in alignment with Catholic social teaching. Next, challenge yourself to do more. Live these teachings intentionally. Live passionately or be inspired by the passion of others, such as the lives of the saints. Whatever you do, do not settle for mediocrity. God has called us for more.