Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church

Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, 2004

Almost 115 years after the publication of Rerum Novarum the Church sought to compile and summarize its modern social teachings.  In 2004 the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace published Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church to summarize and restate the Church’s social teachings to serve as a reference for all Catholics.

The Church seeks to publish its doctrine on social issues to help all Christians work towards the common good.  All people of good will are encouraged to read the Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church to grow one’s own understanding of Church doctrine.

Today’s world is devastated by wars, poverty, and injustices, and for this very reason is in need of the good news of the Gospel.  The Church believes in the dignity of every man and woman and their desire to live lives of authentic meaning.

As globalization continues to spread around the globe, societies struggle to achieve justice and protect the unity of the family.  The Church is also concerned about the growing gap between the rich and the poor.

The document provides an overview of the Church’s social teachings on a variety of issues including salvation, the role of the family, the principle of common good, the rights of workers, morality and the economy, hope for peace, and a Christian’s role in civic society.

This document is intended for not only for all Bishops, but also to serve as an overview of Church teachings for all people of good will.

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