Catholic social teaching is rightly called “social” because it pertains to how we organize ourselves as a society. Rather, I should say as individual societies that are gathered up into one human family. When we see connections as networking rather than fraternity, we will get Catholic social teaching wrong. When we look for the most expedient path rather than the best path, we will get Catholic social teaching wrong.

There are no individual sins, in the final analysis. Everything we do affects everyone else, insofar as we are all connected at the very least as creatures of God. This connection is perfected and elevated by Baptism into Christ, especially.

Point 3 – The Mind of the Church

Because there is so much interplay between definitive Church teachings, opinions, policies, and prudential judgments, it is important to think with the mind of the Church. On those matters which pertain to faith and morals but are not explicitly defined and prescribed in the documents of the Church, we are called to think with the mind of the Church. This is a mark of fidelity to Christ and His Church.

If we are not sure exactly what the Church teaches, we need to research related teachings to determine, in prayer, what is the best course of action. We can do this by reading Sacred Scripture, in the context of the whole of the Bible. In other words, we cannot pick and choose passages. We can look at the Catechism of the Catholic Church. We can visit a site like NewAdvent.org. There are many great resources available.

Point 4 – Preeminence of the Fight Against Abortion

The seven themes of Catholic social teaching are all important! However, there is one modern-day issue that enjoys a preeminence in our priorities. We are obligated as Catholics to serve Christ and His Church. Part of that service means adhering to each of the seven areas of Catholic social teaching faithfully.

Naturally, there are certain issues that are more important or more pressing than others. There is no issue more pressing today than the fight against the “unspeakable crime” of abortion, to quote the Second Vatican Council. This would also include the intrinsic evil of euthanasia.

Point 5 – Allow for Legitimate Diversity in Approach, Where Possible

Just to circle back to Point 1, when we are approaching an issue, we have to adhere to the principles of faith and morals, but the application can be legitimately varied. It is important to allow our human reason to engage with others in a charitable manner, always seeking the truth, but allowing for a legitimate diversity where possible. Otherwise, we will start calling things definitive that are merely our own opinions. This can lead to ideological silos that harm true unity, which allows for legitimate diversity.

Point 6 – Favoring Subsidiarity

Many in our world favor a fairly extreme version of globalism which would minimize local culture and variations in favor of a monochromatic approach to the common good. As with any organization involving human beings, it is a delicate balance to see growth without becoming unruly.

The Church has consistently put forward the principle of subsidiarity as a guiding principle for political, social, and cultural organization. Basically, subsidiarity means that reasonable and legitimate power should be given to the local level because often the best decision is made at the local level.

The Catholic Church has given clear teachings that Communism is completely incompatible with the Catholic Faith, and that certain forms of Socialism and Capitalism are incompatible with the Faith. No matter our political viewpoint, it is important to favor a healthy measure of subsidiarity.

Point 7 – Rights Come with Responsibilities

In order for productive activity to freely develop, human rights must be upheld. These privileges, whether afforded by God our Creator or the consent of the governed in a given populace, carry with them firm responsibilities to serve the good. Of course, God is our highest good. So, when we exercise our rights and the accompanying responsibilities, it is a religious act. We have a responsibility to form our conscience in accord with the teachings of the Church and the right to act in accord with our conscience.

We also have to respect the legitimate rights of others, according to the unfailing and definite teachings of our Holy Mother Church.

God, help us to serve You, our neighbor, and ourselves in accord with Your will, always! Amen.