Catholic Social Teaching

Our work is based on Catholic social teaching, which is a body of writings and thought which applies Catholic moral principles to economic and social issues.

Principles of Catholic Social Teaching/Ngā Matapono Ākoranga Pāpori Katorika

Human Dignity – Made in God’s image: Each of us is made in God’s image, which means each person has an innate human dignity -  te tapu o te tangata – no one can take away.

Solidarity – Walking together: Being in solidarity is recognising others as our brothers and sisters and actively working with them for their good. In our connected humanity we are invited to build relationships – whakawhanaunatanga – to understand what life is like for others who are different from us.

Preferential option for the poor and vulnerable – Protecting those in need: Having a preferential option for the poor – he whakaaro nui mō te hunga rawakore – compels us to think first of the needs of those who are most vulnerable.

Common good – The good of each and all: Commitment to the common good means working for the good of all – hei painga mō te katoa. This means respecting the rights and responsibilities of all people.

Subsidiarity – Empowering communities: Taking account of subsidiarity – mana whakahaere – means ensuring decision making happens at the most appropriate level, so all those affected can contribute.

Stewardship – Being responsible guardians: We are kaitiaki – guardians of the earth.  Exercising stewardship is caring for the gifts God has given us, including the environment, our own personal talents and other resources.

Participation – Everyone with a part to play: Promoting participation – nāu te rourou, nāku te rourou – means recognising we each have something unique to contribute to society.  We are called to be active members of our local and global communities.