Our Catholic Social Teaching theme for this term is: Option for the Poor and Vulnerable
This Catholic social teaching theme is about having a preferential option for the poor – which makes us think first of the needs of those who are most vulnerable. The option for the poor reminds us of God’s love for the poorest and most vulnerable people. God’s love is universal.
Protecting those in need
Giving preferential option for the poor means we choose to think first of the needs of those who are most vulnerable.
The poor and vulnerable have a special place in the Kingdom of God. Putting into practice the preferential option for the poor means considering those less fortunate than us and ensuring that there is equality in society.
World resources should be shared equally
Jesus taught that when we feed the hungry, look after the sick and visit the lonely, we are looking after Him.
Pope Francis said: ‘The measure of the greatness of a society is found in the way it treats those most in need, those who have nothing apart from their poverty!’
In the Gospel of Luke we are told: ‘The spirit of the Lord is on me, for he has anointed me to bring the good news to the afflicted. He has sent me… to let the oppressed go free.’ Luke 4:18
Some questions to think about:
- Who do you know that cares for and looks after the poor and vulnerable? How do they do this?
- Why do you think ‘poor and vulnerable people have a special place in God’s Kingdom’?
- What can each of us do to ensure that we look after the poor and vulnerable people around us?
