Catholic Social Teaching

James L. Collins Catholic School believes in the importance of helping our students develop a critical sense and an open mind to care for today's world.  We believe that Christ gives people different gifts not only for themselves, but for others.  Each must serve the other using his or her talents for the good of all.  Today’s world requires that the Christian community be involved in seeking solutions to a host of complex problems.  Christian service helps students acquire the skills, virtues, and habits of heart and mind required for an effective community life.  We must give children the tools to answer Jesus' call to act with loving concern, justice, and fairness.

The Dignity of the Human Person
God made each of us. This makes us special.  It doesn’t matter who we are, who our friends are, what we own, or what we look like.  What matters is that we are all God’s creations, and we are called to treat others with respect and fairness. 

Called to Live as Family & Community
We all need our families, friends and neighbors.  Others need our help as well. Jesus healed the sick and fed the hungry. When we care for each other we follow in the footsteps of Christ.

Rights & Responsibilities
All people need food, clothes, homes, medical care, education and work. But many people do not have these things. Jesus wants us to help our sisters and brothers. It is not enough just to feel sad.

An Option for the Poor & Vulnerable
Our Church teaches that all people should be respected and cared for.  We are not suppose to ignore or judge people.  We are supposed to help them like the Good Samaritan in Jesus’ parable (Luke 10:25).

The Dignity & Rights of Workers
There are many kinds of work. In each job, workers deserve to have safe conditions, reasonable hours, and fair pay.  Our work gives us a chance to use the talents God gives us.

Solidarity - Loving our Neighbor
We must work together if we want to live in peace and health. And, we must share our resources with our sisters and brothers around the world.  Even though we are different, we are still one family—the family of God.

Care for God's Creation
The earth is God’s creation. We are supposed to take care of it because it is a gift from God.  When we don’t take care of the earth and its resources, we all suffer.  Making good choices about the care of God’s creation is called good stewardship.