Catholic social teaching has been called "our best kept secret," "our buried treasure," and "an essential part of Catholic faith." Yet, in the words of the U.S. Catholic bishops: "Far too many Catholics are not familiar with the basic content of Catholic social teaching. We need to do more to share the social mission and message of our Church."
Life and Dignity of the Human Person
Belief in the inherent dignity of the human person is the foundation of all Catholic social teaching. Human life is sacred, and the dignity of the human person is the starting point for a moral vision for society. This principle is grounded in the idea that the person is made in the image of God. The person is the clearest reflection of God among us.