What is Catholic Social Teaching?

Catholic Social Teaching (CST) is the Church's body of doctrine on matters of social justice, human dignity, and the common good. Its seven key principles are: (1) Life and Dignity of the Human Person — every human life is sacred from conception to natural death. (2) Call to Family, Community, and Participation — people have a right and duty to participate in society. (3) Rights and Responsibilities — every person has fundamental human rights and corresponding duties. (4) Option for the Poor and Vulnerable — the needs of the poor must take priority. (5) The Dignity of Work and Rights of Workers — work is a form of participation in God's creation. (6) Solidarity — we are one human family regardless of national, racial, or economic differences. (7) Care for God's Creation — we are stewards of the earth.