An honest reading of the doctrinal and theological legacy of Catholic Social Teaching leads to the conclusion that it does not fit neatly into the categories of contemporary political divisions. Pope Benedict has shown this once again in his recent message to the 25th International Conference of the Pontifical Council for Health Care Ministry. In it he uses the term "inalienable rights" in connection…  » More

In Pope Benedict's discourse to the Swiss Bishops in 2006, he lamented that the Catholic teaching had "not been sufficiently presented" to the world. He saw a situation that could give the impression to the secular world that "the great topics of peace, non-violence, justice for all, concern for the poor and respect for creation" are not part of the moral teaching of the Church but merely political…  » More

The chief blessing of the study of history is to see the great things the Lord has done for us. The Beatitude "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness"(Mt. 5.7) is fulfilled again and again in the Church's march through time. There are so many holy witnesses who stood up effectively for truth and love in a world where degradation and self-interest seemed to take the fore. Nowadays…  » More

It is often said that Catholic Social Teaching is the “best kept secret in the Church.” One proof of that is to consider how infrequently Catholics form their political opinions after a well thought out reflection on the Magisterium. How many fiscally conservative Catholic politicians are even aware that the Popes have repeatedly taught a doctrine called the “universal destination of material goods”?…  » More